Question: A circle is inscribed in a triangle. What is the radius of the incircle if the triangle has sides of lengths 7, 8, and 9 units?
Options:
Correct Answer: 3 square units
Solution:
The area 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. The radius is approximately 3 square units.