Math Problem Statement

Find the length of side x to the nearest tenth, given a right triangle with a hypotenuse of 12 and one angle of 30°.

Solution

This is a right triangle problem where we need to find the length of side xx. We are given:

  • The hypotenuse 1212,
  • One angle 3030^\circ, and
  • A right angle 9090^\circ.

Step-by-step Solution:

The side xx is opposite the 3030^\circ angle, and the given hypotenuse is 12. In a right triangle, the sine function relates the opposite side to the hypotenuse:

sin(angle)=oppositehypotenuse\sin(\text{angle}) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{hypotenuse}}

  1. Using sin(30)\sin(30^\circ), we write: sin(30)=x12\sin(30^\circ) = \frac{x}{12}

  2. We know sin(30)=0.5\sin(30^\circ) = 0.5, so: 0.5=x120.5 = \frac{x}{12}

  3. Solve for xx: x=12×0.5=6x = 12 \times 0.5 = 6

Final Answer:

The length of xx is: 6.0\boxed{6.0}

Would you like further details or have any questions?


Here are five related questions to expand your understanding:

  1. What trigonometric ratio would you use to find the adjacent side to the 3030^\circ angle?
  2. If the hypotenuse were doubled, how would the value of xx change?
  3. Can you calculate the length of the side adjacent to the 3030^\circ angle?
  4. How do the angles of a triangle influence the lengths of the sides?
  5. How would you use the cosine or tangent function to verify the result?

Tip: Always check the given information carefully to select the correct trigonometric ratio for solving right triangle problems!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right Triangles
Sine Function

Formulas

sin(angle) = opposite / hypotenuse

Theorems

Basic Trigonometric Ratios

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10