Find the height of any triangle?

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To find the height of a triangle with given side lengths of 190 ft, 182 ft, and 363 ft, the formula h = (2/c)√(s(s-a)(s-b)(s-c)) can be used, where s is the semi-perimeter. It is essential to draw a diagram of the triangle to visualize the problem effectively. Utilizing the law of sines or cosines can help determine the angle measures needed for calculations. Starting with a clear picture is emphasized as crucial for solving the problem accurately. Overall, a combination of geometric visualization and mathematical formulas is necessary to find the triangle's height.
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Homework Statement



I have the side lengths of a triangle. The base is 190 ft long, side A is 182 ft long and side B is 363 ft long. That's all I know.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I know these side lengths are related somehow.
 
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I'm not 100% sure this is the formula, but try this:
h=\frac{2}{c}\sqrt{s(s-a)(s-b)(s-c)}
where
s=\frac{a+b+c}{2}
 
Draw the picture, use the law of sines or cosines to find the angle measures, drawn an altitude, calculate.
 
Or you could use the fact that you know the distance of the apex from the other two corners to find two equations in x and y.
 
Use the law of cosines to find the angle opposite side B first.
 
DRAW THE DAMN PICTURE. All of the other suggestions here are good but if you don't start off by drawing a reasonable picture of what you're working with, you're shooting in the dark.
 
phinds said:
DRAW THE DAMN PICTURE. All of the other suggestions here are good but if you don't start off by drawing a reasonable picture of what you're working with, you're shooting in the dark.
Very true !
 
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