Using 45-45-90 triangles can help make some geometry problems easier, but there can be challenges too. Here are a few issues you might face:

1. Spotting the Right Triangles:

   • It can be tough to tell when a triangle is a 45-45-90 triangle.
   • If the angles aren’t shown clearly, this can cause misunderstandings.

2. Using Properties the Wrong Way:

   • The side lengths of a 45-45-90 triangle follow a special rule: they are in the ratio of 1:1:$\sqrt{2}$. Sometimes students forget this.
   • It’s also easy to mistakenly use this rule for other types of triangles, which can lead to wrong answers.

3. Challenges in Real-Life Problems:

   • Sometimes, geometry problems can get complicated, especially if they include many triangles or non-right triangles. If you rely only on 45-45-90 triangle properties, you might oversimplify things.
   • Problems that involve angles, not just side lengths, may need a better understanding beyond just these triangles.

To help with these challenges, students can:

• Practice Spotting Special Triangles:
  Regular practice with different problems can make it easier to identify and work with 45-45-90 triangles.

• Use Visual Aids:
  Diagrams can be really helpful in understanding how triangles work and how they are connected.

• Strengthen Basic Concepts:
  Knowing the main properties of triangles, as well as what complementary and supplementary angles are, can make it easier to use 45-45-90 triangles in tougher situations.