Solve for H/L Ratio in Equal Tetrahedron

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the ratio of the height (H) to the edge length (L) of a regular tetrahedron, which is a three-dimensional shape with four equilateral triangular faces. The original poster presents an equation and attempts to derive the ratio H/L = √(2/3) based on geometric relationships within the tetrahedron.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the original poster's equations and suggest clarifications regarding the relationships between the height and the dimensions of the tetrahedron. There are questions about the accuracy of the equations presented and the definitions of height in the context of the tetrahedron and its triangular faces.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing feedback on the original poster's calculations and questioning certain assumptions. Some participants are exploring the geometric properties of equilateral triangles and their relation to the tetrahedron, indicating a collaborative effort to clarify the problem.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of confusion regarding the definitions of height and the specific geometric relationships involved. Participants are also referencing external resources for further clarification, suggesting that the problem may have complexities that require deeper exploration.

chmilne
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Here's the problem:

A regular tetrahedron is a three-dimensional object that has four faces, each of which is an equilateral triangle. Each of the edges of such an object has a length L. The height H of a regular tetrahedron is the perpendicular distance from one corner to the center of the opposite triangular face. Show that the ratio between H and L is H/L = sqrt (2/3).

Here's what I've done so far:
Take a look at the attachment.

L2 = H2 + (H/2)2
L2 = H2 + (H2/2)
L2 = ( (2H2)/2 ) + (H2/2)
L2 = 3H2/2
2L2 = 3H2
(√2)L = (√3)H
((√2) / (√3)) / L = H
((√2) / (√3)) = H / L
√(2/3) = H / L

I was excited that I thought I had found the answer that I completely squared the 'b' in this euqation, thus throwing off the rest of the equation. I know I'm close, but I seem to be missing something. Will someone please help?
 

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Last edited by a moderator:
Im finding it kinda hard to understand your working, but shouldn't the second line be:
L2 = H2 + (H2/4)
?
 
The center of an equilateral triangle is on the altitude, 1/3 of the way from the vertex to the base. That is not "H/2". If an equilateral triangle has sides of length L, what is the length of the altitude? What is 1/3 of that?
 
In an equilateral triangle the Height is always side times sq(3)/2, that's basic Geometry knowledge, but do you mean the height of the whole figure, or the height of one of the faces? That...is not the same.
 

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