Simple DS - help!

Gans · Posted: Wed Dec 19, 2007 12:43 pm Post subject: Simple DS - help!

Hi,

I would like to have an answer to a rather simple DS question. My doubt essentially stems from the inconsistent answers to this question between two different GMAT tests:

DS: Is triangle ABC, with two sides of lengths 3 & 4 inches, a right-angled triangle?

(1) The length of the third side is 5 inches.

(2) Angle B = 90 degrees

Now, is the correct answer "D" or "B"? That is, would it be right in assuming that (1) implies a "classic" 3-4-5 right-triangle, which meets the Pythagorus theorem? Or, is it possible for a triangle to have sides in such a proportion without necessarily being a right-angled triangle? Of course, geometrically speaking, it seems impossible to draw such a triangle without its being a right-angled triangle.

I look forward to a conclusive answer. Thanks!

samirpandeyit62 · Posted: Wed Dec 19, 2007 11:48 pm Post subject:

IMO the ans should be D,

ofcourse stmt2 is SUFF

now in stmt 1, we have a 3-4-5 triangle,

largest side is 5

& 5^2 = 3^2 + 4^2

since the pythagoras theorem is satisfied here hence the triangle must be a right angle traingle coz pythagoras theorem will not hold true for any other type of triangle except a right angled one (to the best of my knowledge)

camitava · Posted: Thu Dec 20, 2007 12:48 am Post subject:

Agree with Samir!

Guest · Posted: Thu Dec 20, 2007 10:35 am Post subject: Simple DS - help!

Thanks guys, for taking time to answer a rather silly question. I did a Google search after I posted the question and found the same line of reasoning as Samir's. Once again, thanks Samir and Amitava! Good luck with your exams.