Math Problem Statement

Find the value of cos X in a right triangle where the sides are XY = 15 (adjacent), YZ = 8 (opposite), and XZ = 17 (hypotenuse).

Solution

The given image shows a right triangle XYZXYZ with:

  • XY=15XY = 15 (adjacent to angle XX),
  • YZ=8YZ = 8 (opposite to angle XX),
  • XZ=17XZ = 17 (hypotenuse).

You are asked to find cosX\cos X.

Cosine formula:

cosX=AdjacentHypotenuse\cos X = \frac{\text{Adjacent}}{\text{Hypotenuse}}

From the triangle:

  • The side adjacent to XX is XY=15XY = 15,
  • The hypotenuse is XZ=17XZ = 17.

Thus: cosX=1517\cos X = \frac{15}{17}

So the correct answer is Option C.

Would you like more details or explanations? Here are some related questions:

  1. How do you calculate sine and tangent for this triangle?
  2. What are some typical uses of trigonometric ratios in real-life scenarios?
  3. How can the Pythagorean theorem verify the sides of this triangle?
  4. What are the other trigonometric identities involving cosine?
  5. How does the cosine function behave in different quadrants?

Tip: Always identify which sides correspond to "opposite," "adjacent," and "hypotenuse" before applying trigonometric ratios.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right Triangles
Cosine

Formulas

Cosine formula: cos(X) = Adjacent / Hypotenuse

Theorems

Pythagorean Theorem
Trigonometric Ratios

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10