To determine if the sides with lengths of 3 inches, 4 inches, and 9 inches can form a triangle, we apply the Triangle Inequality Theorem. According to this theorem, for any three sides \( a \), \( b \), and \( c \) of a triangle, the following conditions must be met:
- \( a + b > c \)
- \( a + c > b \)
- \( b + c > a \)
Let's label the sides:
- \( a = 3 \)
- \( b = 4 \)
- \( c = 9 \)
Now, we check each condition:
- \( 3 + 4 > 9 \) → \( 7 > 9 \) (False)
- \( 3 + 9 > 4 \) → \( 12 > 4 \) (True)
- \( 4 + 9 > 3 \) → \( 13 > 3 \) (True)
The first condition (3 + 4 > 9) is false. Since one of the conditions of the Triangle Inequality Theorem is not satisfied, the three lengths do not form a triangle.
Therefore, the correct response is: No, because 3 + 4 is less than 9.