When many people picture triangles, the images of triangles with at least two sides that are equal length come into mind.
However, this isn’t always the case with triangles.
Scalene triangles are triangles in which all three sides are of different lengths. The three angles within scalene triangles are also of different measures.
Scalene triangles can be acute triangles where the three interior angles measure less than ninety degrees.
They can obtuse triangles in which one of the interior angles measures more than 90 degrees but less than 180 degrees.
They can also be right-angled triangles in which one of the interior angles measures 90 degrees.
Scalene triangles are everywhere around us. The scalene shape is considered stable and strong. It has, therefore, found applications in many practical ways.
The following are 10 examples of scalene triangles in real life.
1. Roof Trusses
Roof trusses are often constructed in the shape of scalene triangles.
Roof trusses that feature the scalene triangle shape offer the greatest support. The shape ensures an even distribution of force.
No force exerted on any side of the triangle will result in a change in the shape of the triangle. This results in a rigid and durable structure.
This shape can be used in the construction of dual pitch roof trusses as well as mono-pitch roof trusses.
2. Ramps
Have you ever had to move heavy boxes or other heavy luggage? Do you love to skateboard?
Ramps are a useful part of our day-to-day life. They are also one of the most common examples of the application of scalene triangles in real life.
The inclined plane provides a surface that makes it easy to push or pull heavy objects.
The scalene shape ensures that the ramp is strong enough to support the weight.
3. Cranes
Cranes play an important role in building and construction. They are used to lift large and heavy objects, especially when building tall buildings.
Cranes feature the scalene triangle shape. The long end of the triangle gives the crane greater reach.
The shorter side of the triangle acts as a counter-balance when the crane is lifting something on the longer side.
The scalene triangle shape gives the crane structure strength to ensure that it can lift heavy objects.
4. Truss Bridges
Scalene triangles are also a common feature in truss bridges.
The beams are arranged in triangle shapes to ensure even distribution of weight throughout the bridge.
These triangles also allow for the construction of rigid structures that span several kilometers.
While different types of triangles are used for truss bridges, scalene triangles have become the more popular option in modern bridges.
Many modern bridges feature right-angled scalene triangles.
5. Bicycle Frames
Do you love cycling? Take a close look at the frame of your bicycle.
It will most likely feature a scalene triangle as a dominant part of its body. This is especially true for road racing bicycles and mountain bikes.
The scalene triangle in the bicycle body is formed by the top tube, down tube, and seat tube.
This shape makes the bicycle frame more rigid. It also ensures equal distribution of weight between your bicycle wheels. So, your rare bicycle wheel doesn’t succumb to the strain of carrying the bulk of your body weight.
6. Sails On Boats
Sail boats often raise sails that are in the shape of scalene triangles. The sides of the sails have different lengths.
The angles between the sides are also different measurements.
The triangular shape of the sail helps boats sail upwind more easily. Triangular sails also make it possible to make use of half winds. These are winds that are blowing at 90 degrees to the boat. The scalene shape increases the maneuvering ability of the boat.
Sails in the shape of scalene triangles are a common feature in speed sailing boats.
7. A slide
Slides in playgrounds are quite popular with kids. It’s fun to fly down the slide and clamber back up the ladder to slide back down.
The structure of a slide forms a scalene triangle with the longer arm forming the actual slide.
This shape gives the slide a rigid structure. It also ensures that children can slide safely down.
The structure is also replicated in water slides.
8. Auto Frames
Scalene triangles are also a common feature in auto frames.
These triangles are used to construct rigid and strong structures that can withstand external forces such as wind or impact from physical objects.
They also help to distribute weight more evenly across the vehicle’s frame.
A glance at the roll cage of a race car will reveal many scalene triangles.
9. Triangle Gates
Triangle gates in commercial areas are often in the form of scalene triangles. These structures are light and easy to manipulate. They take up a small space but are quite strong.
They are a common feature in commercial parking lots such as at shopping malls.
10. Stair Banisters
Stair banisters are designed to make ascending and descending staircases safe. These banisters follow the gradient of the staircase and often form a scalene triangle as a result.
As you can see from our scalene triangles in real life list, scalene triangles form an important part of our day-to-day lives. You can find them all around you.