https://file.aiquickdraw.com/mathbot/file/1728367316375l97zcahd.jpg

This is a trigonometry problem involving angles of elevation and distances, which can be solved using right triangle relationships and the tangent function. Let's break it down.

We have two points of observation:

1. From the first point, the angle of elevation to the top of the mountain is \(32^\circ\).
2. From a point 1000 feet closer, the angle of elevation is \(34^\circ\).

Let's define the variables:
- Let \( h \) be the height of the mountain (the unknown we need to find).
- Let \( d \) be the distance from the first point of observation to the base of the mountain.

From the first observation point:
\[
\tan(32^\circ) = \frac{h}{d}
\]
From the second observation point (1000 feet closer):
\[
\tan(34^\circ) = \frac{h}{d - 1000}
\]

### Step-by-step process:
1. Solve each equation for \( h \):
   - From the first equation: \( h = d \cdot \tan(32^\circ) \)
   - From the second equation: \( h = (d - 1000) \cdot \tan(34^\circ) \)

2. Set the two expressions for \( h \) equal to each other:
\[
d \cdot \tan(32^\circ) = (d - 1000) \cdot \tan(34^\circ)
\]

3. Expand and solve for \( d \):
\[
d \cdot \tan(32^\circ) = d \cdot \tan(34^\circ) - 1000 \cdot \tan(34^\circ)
\]

\[
d \cdot (\tan(32^\circ) - \tan(34^\circ)) = -1000 \cdot \tan(34^\circ)
\]

\[
d = \frac{1000 \cdot \tan(34^\circ)}{\tan(34^\circ) - \tan(32^\circ)}
\]

4. Once you find \( d \), plug it into one of the original equations to find \( h \), the height of the mountain.

Let's calculate:

- \( \tan(32^\circ) \approx 0.6249 \)
- \( \tan(34^\circ) \approx 0.6745 \)

Now, substitute these values:
\[
d = \frac{1000 \cdot 0.6745}{0.6745 - 0.6249}
\]
\[
d \approx \frac{674.5}{0.0496} \approx 13,600.8 \text{ feet}
\]

Finally, substitute \( d \) back into the equation for \( h \):
\[
h = d \cdot \tan(32^\circ) = 13,600.8 \cdot 0.6249 \approx 8498 \text{ feet}
\]

So, the height of the mountain is approximately **8498 feet**.

Would you like more details on any part of the solution, or have any questions?

Here are five questions you might explore:
1. How can we generalize this method for different distances and angles?
2. What would happen if the difference between the angles of elevation were smaller?
3. How does the accuracy of trigonometric approximations affect the final result?
4. Can we solve the problem using sine or cosine instead of tangent?
5. How does the concept of similar triangles apply in this scenario?

**Tip**: Always check the calculator mode (degrees/radians) when working with trigonometric functions.

A survey team is trying to estimate the height of a mountain above a level plain. From one point on the plain, they observe that the angle of elevation to the top of the mountain is 32°. From a point 1000 feet closer to the mountain along the plain, they find that the angle of elevation is 34°. How high (in feet) is the mountain?

Learn how to calculate the height of a mountain using angles of elevation and trigonometric functions. This step-by-step solution involves the tangent function and the concept of right triangles, suitable for high school students.

Math Problem Statement

Solution

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Formulas

Theorems

Suitable Grade Level

Related Recommendation