Can anyone explain this? The Triangle riddle

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a riddle involving the geometry of triangles, specifically focusing on a visual or conceptual puzzle that appears to show two triangles that look the same but may have different properties. Participants are exploring the implications of the shapes presented in a video link.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the riddle and seeks clarification on the properties of the triangles presented.
  • Another participant questions the assumption of the triangles being perfect, suggesting that the slopes of the mini triangles should be compared to determine if they are indeed the same.
  • A third participant notes that the riddle may have been discussed previously in another forum, indicating a potential overlap in discussions.
  • A later reply proposes that the difference in area between the concave and convex shapes of the triangles contributes to the overall area, suggesting a geometric explanation for the riddle.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the properties of the triangles or the validity of the riddle. Multiple competing views and interpretations remain present in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants rely on assumptions about the shapes and their properties, and there is an unresolved question regarding the measurements and ratios involved in the triangles.

muse99
OK, I'm sure you clever guys can sort this for me. I'm sure you've all seen this. I can't understand it at all and it's driving me nuts! Help!

They both look the same and I have even measured them! It can be found here:

http://www.amazed.tv/video/13205-amazing-riddle-can-you-solve-it-how-is-this-possible.html
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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The assumption is that it is a perfect triangle. Check out the slopes of the green and red mini triangles. Shouldn't they be the same? Are they? IF they were then the ratio of height to base would be the same. Does 2 over 5 equal 3 over 8?
 
I think this was already posted somewhere, in the brain teaser forum?
 
Initially the upper surface of the not quite a triangle is "concave" (inwards angle), and after re-arrangment, the upper surface of the not quite a triangle is "convex" (outwards angle). The difference in area "consumed" by the "concave" uppper surface and the "convex" upper surface equals the area of the square.
 

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