In triangle ABC, medians AD, BE, and CF intersect at centroid G.\nIf area(ΔABC) = 36 cm^2, find area(ΔCGE).

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: 6 sq cm

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Medians of a triangle intersect at the centroid, partitioning the triangle into six smaller triangles of equal area. Recognizing this partition lets us read off areas of sub-triangles like ΔCGE directly.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • AD, BE, CF are medians; E is midpoint of AC.
  • G is the centroid (intersection of the three medians).
  • Area(ΔABC) = 36 cm^2.


Concept / Approach:
Centroid divides the triangle into six equal-area small triangles formed by the three medians. Thus each small triangle has area (total area)/6.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Each small sub-triangle area = 36 / 6 = 6 cm^2ΔCGE is one of these six equal small triangles.Therefore area(ΔCGE) = 6 cm^2


Verification / Alternative check:
Draw medians; around each vertex, two small triangles meet; all six are congruent in area by symmetry and midpoint properties.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 9, 12, 18: These assume thirds or halves, not sixths.


Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting that three medians create 6, not 4, parts; confusing centroid 2:1 segment property with area partition.


Final Answer:
6 sq cm

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