Math Problem Statement

I want to measure the height of the flag pole in front of me, how do I do it, if I measure my position to the distance from the pole's shadow of 10 meters, and my distance to the pole is 5 meters, how high is the actual pole?

Solution

To measure the height of the flag pole, you can use the principles of similar triangles. Here's the step-by-step process:

  1. Measure the distance from your position to the base of the flagpole. This distance is 5 meters.
  2. Measure the length of the shadow of the flagpole. This distance is 10 meters.

Since you are using similar triangles, the height of the flagpole (h) and the length of the shadow (10 meters) form one triangle, and the distance from your position to the pole (5 meters) and your height form the other triangle.

We use the proportion:

Height of the poleLength of the shadow=Your heightYour distance from the pole\frac{\text{Height of the pole}}{\text{Length of the shadow}} = \frac{\text{Your height}}{\text{Your distance from the pole}}

However, we are missing your height. Assuming your height is 1.8 meters (you can replace this with your actual height if it's different), the proportion would be:

h10=1.85\frac{h}{10} = \frac{1.8}{5}

Solving for hh:

h=1.8×105=3.6 metersh = \frac{1.8 \times 10}{5} = 3.6 \text{ meters}

So, the height of the flagpole is 3.6 meters.

Would you like more details or have any questions about this calculation?

Here are 5 questions you can ask:

  1. How do you solve quadratic equations?
  2. Can you explain the Pythagorean theorem?
  3. What are the fundamental trigonometric identities?
  4. How do you find the area of a circle?
  5. What are the properties of logarithms?

Tip: When solving proportion problems, always make sure the units you are comparing are consistent to avoid errors in your calculations.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Similar triangles
Proportion

Formulas

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Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

High School