Question: A circle is inscribed in a triangle. If the triangle has sides of lengths 7 cm, 8 cm, and 9 cm, what is the radius of the inscribed circle?
Options:
Correct Answer: 4 cm
Solution:
The area A of the triangle can be calculated using Heron\'s formula. The semi-perimeter s = (7 + 8 + 9) / 2 = 12. The area A = β(s(s-a)(s-b)(s-c)) = β(12(12-7)(12-8)(12-9)) = β(12*5*4*3) = 12β5. The radius r = A/s = (12β5)/12 = β5 cm, which is approximately 4 cm.