In an isosceles triangle, the lengths of the two sides are 13 m and 24 m. What can be the perimeter of this triangle?
The perimeter of any geometric figure is equal to the sum of the lengths of its sides.
We are given an isosceles triangle. In an isosceles triangle, the sides are equal to each other. Let’s write the formula for the perimeter of an isosceles triangle:
P = a + a + b = 2a + b,
where a is the lateral side of an isosceles triangle, b is the base.
From the condition of the problem, we know the values of the two sides of the triangle. But, it is not indicated which side is lateral. This problem has 2 solutions. Let’s consider them.
1) Suppose a side equal to 13 m is lateral, and 24 m is a base. Then we find the perimeter:
P = 2 × 13 + 24 = 26 + 24 = 50 m.
2) Suppose a side equal to 24 m is a side, and 13 m is a base. Let’s calculate the perimeter of the triangle:
P = 2 × 24 + 13 = 48 + 13 = 61 m.
Answer: the perimeter of the triangle can be 50 m and 61 m.