Question

In heron’s formula  \(\sqrt{s*(s-a)*(s-b)*(s-c)}\), what is the value of s if a, b and c are sides of the triangle?

(a) \(\frac{a+b+c}{4}\)

(b) a+b+c

(c) \(\frac{a+b+c}{2}\)

(d) 2a+2b+2c

I have been asked this question in a job interview.

My question is based upon Heron’s Formula & Area of a Triangle by Heron’s Formula in chapter Heron’s Formula of Mathematics – Class 9

Answer 1

Correct option is (c) \(\frac{a+b+c}{2}\)

Best explanation: In heron’s formula  \(\sqrt{s*(s-a)*(s-b)*(s-c)}\), s is the half perimeter of the triangle.

Perimeter of the triangle having sides a, b and c is a + b + c.

Hence, s = half perimeter of the triangle = \(\frac{a+b+c}{2}\).