Question: A circle is inscribed in a triangle. If the sides of the triangle are 7 cm, 8 cm, and 9 cm, what is the radius of the inscribed circle?
Options:
Correct Answer: 4 cm
Solution:
The radius r of the inscribed circle can be found using the formula r = A/s, where A is the area and s is the semi-perimeter. The semi-perimeter s = (7 + 8 + 9)/2 = 12 cm. The area A can be calculated using Heron\'s formula: A = β[s(s-a)(s-b)(s-c)] = β[12(12-7)(12-8)(12-9)] = β[12*5*4*3] = β720 = 12β5. Thus, r = A/s = (12β5)/12 = β5 cm, which is approximately 2.24 cm.