In a triangle MNK MN = 10, NK = 17. MK = 21. NF is the height of the triangle; PN – perpendicular
In a triangle MNK MN = 10, NK = 17. MK = 21. NF is the height of the triangle; PN – perpendicular to the MNK plane. Find the distance from point P to the side of triangle MK if NP = 15.
Knowing the lengths of the sides of the triangle MNK, we define the plane of the triangle.
S = √ (p (p – MN) * (p – MK) * (p – NK).
Where p is the semi-perimeter of the triangle.
p = (10 + 17 + 21) / 2 = 48/2 = 24.
S = √ (24 * (24 – 17) * (24 – 21) * (24 – 10)) = √24 * 7 * 3 * 14 = 84.
Determine the height NL of the triangle MNK.
S = (MK * NL) / 2.
84 = 21 * NL / 2.
NL = 84 * 2/21 = 8 cm.
Determine the distance from point P to line MK.
In the triangle PLN, the angle N is a straight line, we find PL by the Pythagorean theorem.
PL ^ 2 = PN ^ 2 + NL ^ 2 = 15 ^ 2 + 8 ^ 2 = 289.
PL = 17 cm.
Answer: PL = 17 cm.