Question

Find the minimum number of straight lines required to make the given figure.

• A. \(16\)
• B. \(17\)
• C. \(18\)
• D. \(19\)
• E. \(20\)

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: This is a
counting of straight lines problem involving:

• Counting distinct straight line segments
• Avoiding double counting overlapping lines
• Breaking the figure into smaller parts

Step 1: Break the figure into sections.
Divide the figure into:

• Top triangular structure
• Middle vertical sections
• Bottom rectangular base

Step 2: Count horizontal lines.

• Top horizontal line = 1
• Middle horizontal segments = 2
• Bottom base line = 1

Total horizontal lines = 4
Step 3: Count vertical lines.

• Side boundaries = 2
• Internal vertical partitions = 2

Total vertical lines = 4
Step 4: Count slanting lines.

• Upper triangle sides = 2
• Internal diagonals in upper part = 2
• Diagonals in lower rectangle = 5

Total slanting lines = 9
Step 5: Total lines.
\[ 4 + 4 + 9 = 17 \]
Step 6: Option analysis.

• (A) 16: Missing one line $\times$
• (B) 17: Correct total \checkmark
• (C) 18: Overcounting $\times$
• (D) 19: Extra counting $\times$
• (E) 20: Significant overcount $\times$

Conclusion:
Thus, the correct answer is
Option (B).