Mathematics Problem Of the Week
Spring 2005
POW #8: Larry’s Triangle
In the middle of a recent
blinding blizzard, some students created a triangle with lengths x, y, and z in
the ODY quad. Larry was able to measure these lengths and determine that
x2 + y2 + z2 =
xy + yz + zx.
However, because of the
storm he was unable to determine if the triangle was equilateral and
unfortunately, the wind from the blizzard covered the triangle. Can you
help Larry determine if the triangle is equilateral? Explain why or why
not.
Solutions should be
submitted to Dr. Maegan Bos’ mailbox in the Math office or sent via e-mail to mbos@stlawu.edu
Presentation counts! The
prize-winning entry will be selected from all correct submissions, based on the
clarity, creativity and elegance of the solution.
Look for the SLU POW on
the Web at http://it.stlawu.edu/~math/activities/