16Hit1600
Geometry and TrigonometryHardHypotenuse of an isosceles right triangle from its area

Geometry and Trigonometry practice question

An isosceles right triangle has an area of 18. What is the length of its hypotenuse?

  1. A. 6√2Correct
  2. B. 6
  3. C. 36
  4. D. 3√2

Answer: A. 6√2

Equal legs s with (1/2)s² = 18 give s² = 36, s = 6. The hypotenuse is s√2 = 6√2.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. 6
6 is the length of each LEG.
C. 36
36 is s², the square of a leg.
D. 3√2
3√2 is half the hypotenuse.

More Geometry and Trigonometry questions

Not affiliated with the College Board. SAT is a trademark of the College Board.