Is there a formula for finding the perimeter of a triangle with known vertices?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the perimeter of a triangle given its vertices, specifically triangle ABC with vertices A(1, 1), B(9, 3), and C(3, 5). Participants explore the use of the distance formula, midpoints, and relevant geometric theorems to address various parts of the problem.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant outlines a method to find the perimeter of triangle ABC using the distance formula and suggests that the individual lengths must be added together.
  • The same participant proposes finding the perimeter of a triangle formed by the midpoints of triangle ABC's sides, indicating a need to calculate midpoints first.
  • A ratio of the perimeters from the two parts is introduced, with a formula suggested for this ratio.
  • Another participant identifies the Triangle Midpoint theorem as relevant to the problem posed in part 4.
  • Additional participants reference previous threads that discuss similar topics regarding triangle ABC and its perimeter.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not explicitly agree on the methods or outcomes, and the discussion includes multiple viewpoints and references to previous threads without a consensus on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the use of the distance formula and the application of the Triangle Midpoint theorem are present, but these are not fully explored or resolved within the discussion.

mathdad
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The vertices of triangle ABC are A(1, 1), B(9, 3), and C(3, 5).

1. Find the perimeter of triangle ABC.

I must use the distance formula for points to find the individual lengths. I then must add all 3 lengths to find the perimeter. Correct?

2. Find the perimeter of the triangle that is formed by joining the midpoints of the three sides of triangle ABC.

I MUST find the midpoint of AB, BC, and BC. I then repeat the same steps for part 1 above. Correct?

3. Compute the ratio of the perimeter on part 1 to the perimeter in part b.

Let r = ratio

r = (perimeter part 1)/(perimeter part 2)

Is this what I must solve for part 3?

4. What theorem from geometry provides the answer for part 3 without using the results in part 1 and 2.

I need help with part 4.
 
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4. The Triangle Midpoint theorem.
 
You may wish to review these threads, as they deal with the same triangle and perimeter:

  • https://mathhelpboards.com/pre-calculus-21/triangle-abc-22202.html
  • https://mathhelpboards.com/pre-calculus-21/perimeter-triangle-abc-21551.html
  • https://mathhelpboards.com/pre-calculus-21/perimeter-triangle-abc-21111.html
 
MarkFL said:
You may wish to review these threads, as they deal with the same triangle and perimeter:

  • http://mathhelpboards.com/pre-calculus-21/triangle-abc-22202.html
  • http://mathhelpboards.com/pre-calculus-21/perimeter-triangle-abc-21551.html
  • http://mathhelpboards.com/pre-calculus-21/perimeter-triangle-abc-21111.html

I forgot that I had posted the same question some time ago. Good. I can move on in the textbook.
 

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