Math Problem Statement

Solve a tetrahedron surface area formula for s

Solution

The surface area AA of a regular tetrahedron (a tetrahedron with all four faces being equilateral triangles) is given by the formula:

A=3s2A = \sqrt{3} s^2

where:

  • AA is the surface area,
  • ss is the length of a side.

To solve this formula for ss, follow these steps:

  1. Start with the surface area formula: A=3s2A = \sqrt{3} s^2

  2. Divide both sides by 3\sqrt{3} to isolate s2s^2: A3=s2\frac{A}{\sqrt{3}} = s^2

  3. Take the square root of both sides to solve for ss: s=A3s = \sqrt{\frac{A}{\sqrt{3}}}

Thus, the side length ss in terms of the surface area AA is:

s=A3s = \sqrt{\frac{A}{\sqrt{3}}}

Let me know if you would like any further clarifications, and here are some related questions to explore:

  1. What is the volume formula for a regular tetrahedron?
  2. How is the height of a tetrahedron related to its side length?
  3. How does the formula for surface area change for irregular tetrahedrons?
  4. How would you compute the surface area if given the vertices in 3D space?
  5. What role does the tetrahedron play in geometry and why is it significant?

Tip: For regular polyhedra like the tetrahedron, symmetry greatly simplifies calculations, especially for surface area and volume.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Surface Area
Regular Polyhedra

Formulas

Surface area of a regular tetrahedron: A = √3 * s^2
Side length in terms of surface area: s = √(A / √3)

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12