Two sides of a triangle have lengths of 8 inches and 12 inches. What could be the length of the third side?

A) 2 in
B) 4 in
C) 16 in****
D) 20 in

To find out the possible length of the third side of a triangle when two sides are known, we can use the triangle inequality theorem. According to the theorem, the sum of the lengths of any two sides of a triangle must be greater than the length of the third side.

Let's apply this theorem to the given situation. The two known sides are 8 inches and 12 inches. Now, we can check if the sum of these two known sides is greater than the length of the third side.

8 + 12 = 20

Since the sum of the two known sides is 20, the length of the third side must be LESS than 20 inches. Therefore, the only option that satisfies this condition is C) 16 in.

For heaven's sake, please use the same name for your posts.

Phobia or whoever is in time out for a few days until he (she?) can figure out who he is and settle on ONE screen name.