Geometry formula reference

Heron Formula

Calculates triangle area from its three side lengths.

Open in editor
LaTeXA=\sqrt{s(s-a)(s-b)(s-c)},\quad s=\frac{a+b+c}{2}

Variables

  • a,b,c: side lengths
  • s: semiperimeter

How to use this formula

Calculates triangle area from its three side lengths.

Important notes

  • The side lengths must satisfy the triangle inequality.

Quick example

Sides 3,4,5 give area 6.

Applicability, worked calculation, and verification

Assumptions and domain checks

  • The side lengths must satisfy the triangle inequality.
  • For the Heron Formula, every denominator must be nonzero, and the numerator and denominator must remain correctly grouped.
  • For a real-valued result, each even-root radicand must be nonnegative unless complex values are intended.
  • Use one consistent unit system and confirm whether lengths, areas, volumes, and angles use the dimensions implied by the formula.

Worked example

Input

Output

Sides 3,4,5 give area 6.

Common mistakes

  • When copying Heron Formula, keep the complete numerator and denominator grouped; a missing brace or parenthesis changes the result.
  • For the Heron Formula, do not report a length, area, or volume with the wrong unit dimension, and keep intermediate precision until the final rounding step.

Continue the workflow

Use Heron Formula in your own work

  1. Check the domainMatch the variables and assumptions to the problem before substituting values.
  2. Copy the exact notationPreserve grouping, signs, and exponents in A=\sqrt{s(s-a)(s-b)(s-c)},\quad s=\frac{a+b+c}{2}.
  3. Edit or convertOpen the expression in the LaTeX editor, then export it for your document or web page.

Review and verification

Last reviewed: 2026-07-23

Automated quality check: Kept noindex until the missing evidence is supplied.

Formula references

  • Algebra and Trigonometry 2eOpenStax, Rice University — Reviewed algebra, functions, sequences, trigonometry, and analytic geometry definitions and examples.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Heron Formula used for?

Calculates triangle area from its three side lengths.

Can I copy this formula as LaTeX?

Yes. Copy A=\sqrt{s(s-a)(s-b)(s-c)},\quad s=\frac{a+b+c}{2} or open it in the LaTeX editor.

What should I check before using it?

Confirm that each variable, unit, domain restriction, and assumption matches the problem.

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