It is possible to create a triangle using any combination of lengths, right? Well, that is not exactly true. There are certain conditions that must be met in order to create a triangle. In this topic, you will learn how to determine whether a set of lengths will create a triangle.

Essential Questions

• How can you determine if three lengths will form a triangle?
• How can you solve practical problems involving the existence of a triangle?

 

Warm-Up

Take out a ruler and try out these problems.

Is it possible to draw triangles with the following sets of side lengths?

• 2 inches, 3 inches, and 5 inches
• 2 inches, 3 inches, and 6 inches
• 2 inches, 3 inches, and 4 inches

Explain your findings.