Question

on the packaging for a triangular sail, the edge measurements for the sail are listed as 7 ft × 15 ft × 17 ft. without unfurling the sail, you want to determine if the sail forms a right triangle, an acute triangle, or an obtuse triangle. using the tools from this lesson, you determine that the general shape of the sail is a(n) triangle.

Explanation:

Step1: Identify sides and largest side

Let $a=7$, $b=15$, $c=17$ (c is largest)

Step2: Compute $a^2 + b^2$

$7^2 + 15^2 = 49 + 225 = 274$

Step3: Compute $c^2$

$17^2 = 289$

Step4: Compare values

Since $274 < 289$, i.e., $a^2 + b^2 < c^2$, the triangle is obtuse.

Answer:

obtuse