Math Problem Statement

By first finding tan θ, calculate the size of angle θ. Give your answer in degrees to the nearest integer. The triangle has opposite side = 14 cm and adjacent side = 9 cm.

Solution

To solve for the angle θ\theta in the given right triangle, we can use the tangent function. The tangent of an angle in a right triangle is the ratio of the length of the opposite side to the length of the adjacent side. Here, the opposite side to angle θ\theta is 14 cm, and the adjacent side is 9 cm.

The formula for tangent is: tan(θ)=oppositeadjacent\tan(\theta) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{adjacent}}

Substitute the given values: tan(θ)=149\tan(\theta) = \frac{14}{9}

Now, to find θ\theta, we take the arctangent (inverse tangent) of 149\frac{14}{9}: θ=tan1(149)\theta = \tan^{-1}\left(\frac{14}{9}\right)

Using a calculator to find the arctangent: θtan1(1.5556)\theta \approx \tan^{-1}(1.5556) θ57.99\theta \approx 57.99^\circ

Rounding to the nearest integer: θ58\theta \approx 58^\circ

So, the size of angle θ\theta is approximately 5858^\circ.

Would you like any additional details or have any questions?

Here are some related questions:

  1. How do you use the sine function to find the hypotenuse in a right triangle?
  2. What is the relationship between the angles in a right triangle?
  3. How can the Pythagorean theorem be used to find the length of the hypotenuse?
  4. What are the definitions of the sine and cosine functions in a right triangle?
  5. How can you convert degrees to radians?

Tip: Always ensure your calculator is set to the correct mode (degrees or radians) depending on the unit you need for your angle measurements.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Tangent Function
Inverse Trigonometric Functions

Formulas

tan(θ) = opposite / adjacent
θ = tan⁻¹(opposite / adjacent)

Theorems

Right Triangle Trigonometry

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10