Constructing an Altitude of a Triangle

This video tutorial demonstrates how to construct an altitude of a triangle using Geometer's Sketchpad. It begins with an obtuse triangle and explains the process of extending the opposite side, constructing intersecting circles, and creating congruent circles to determine the altitude. The tutorial concludes by finalizing the altitude and highlighting it for clarity.

What is the first step in constructing an altitude in an obtuse triangle using Geometer's Sketchpad?

• Select the midpoint of the triangle

• Start with an acute triangle

• Draw a parallel line

• Begin with an obtuse triangle

Why do we need to extend the opposite side of the triangle?

• To change the triangle type

• To find the midpoint

• To make the triangle larger

• To ensure the altitude is perpendicular

What is the purpose of constructing a circle with the center at the vertex?

• To measure the angle

• To find the midpoint of the triangle

• To intersect the opposite side at two points

• To change the color of the triangle

How do you ensure the circles are congruent?

• By measuring the diameter

• By using the same center

• By measuring the radius

• By changing the color

What is the significance of the intersection points of the two congruent circles?

• They are the triangle's midpoints

• They change the triangle's type

• They are used to construct the altitude

• They determine the triangle's area

What is the next step after selecting the vertex and intersection points of the circles?

• Measure the angle

• Change the color of the triangle

• Construct a line through these points

• Construct a parallel line

Why is the altitude finalized as a line segment?

• To change the triangle's type

• To ensure it is perpendicular to the opposite side

• To measure the triangle's area

• To find the midpoint

What is the purpose of making the altitude line segment thick?

• To make it more visible

• To find the midpoint

• To measure the angle

• To change its length

Where can the intersection of the three altitudes be located in a triangle?

• Only inside the triangle

• Only outside the triangle

• Only on the triangle

• Inside, on, or outside the triangle

What is the final step in constructing the altitude?

• Measure the angle

• Construct the line segment from the vertex to the opposite side

• Change the color of the triangle

• Find the midpoint