How is the area of a right triangle derived?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Prepare for the Grade 6 FAST Mathematics Test. Study with comprehensive questions, solutions, and tips to maximize your performance and excel in your exam!

Multiple Choice

How is the area of a right triangle derived?

Explanation:
Think of a rectangle that has the same base and height as the right triangle. The rectangle’s area is base × height. If you draw a diagonal across that rectangle, it splits into two congruent right triangles, so each triangle covers exactly half of the rectangle. That means the area of the right triangle is half of base × height, written as 1/2 × base × height. The full base × height would give the area of the whole rectangle, not just the triangle, and base × height (or height × base) without the 1/2 factor would miss that half. So the correct expression is 1/2 × base × height.

Think of a rectangle that has the same base and height as the right triangle. The rectangle’s area is base × height. If you draw a diagonal across that rectangle, it splits into two congruent right triangles, so each triangle covers exactly half of the rectangle. That means the area of the right triangle is half of base × height, written as 1/2 × base × height. The full base × height would give the area of the whole rectangle, not just the triangle, and base × height (or height × base) without the 1/2 factor would miss that half. So the correct expression is 1/2 × base × height.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy