Math Problem Statement
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 . From a point 1000 feet closer to the mountain along the plain, they find that the angle of elevation is . How high (in feet) is the mountain?
Solution
To determine the height of the mountain () using the given information, we'll use trigonometric principles. Let’s set up the problem mathematically.
Given:
- First observation point: Angle of elevation .
- Second observation point: 1000 feet closer to the mountain, angle of elevation .
- The goal is to calculate the height of the mountain ().
Steps:
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Define variables:
- Let be the horizontal distance from the first observation point to the base of the mountain.
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Using the tangent function:
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From the first observation point:
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From the second observation point (1000 feet closer):
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Set up equations for :
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From the first point:
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From the second point:
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Equate the two expressions for :
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Solve for : Expand and rearrange: Factor : Solve for :
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Substitute back to find : Use :
Final Calculation:
Plug in the given angles and to find . Could you share the values of and ? This will allow for precise numerical results.
If you have any questions, let me know! Here are 5 related questions for further exploration:
- What other trigonometric methods could be used to solve this problem?
- How does the distance between the observation points affect the accuracy of height estimation?
- What are other real-world applications of this method?
- How does atmospheric refraction affect angle measurements in real surveys?
- Could we solve this problem using a different approach, such as the Law of Sines or Cosines?
Tip: Always check for unit consistency when solving real-world trigonometry problems.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Trigonometry
Angle of Elevation
Tangent Function
Distance Calculation
Formulas
tan(θ1) = h / d
tan(θ2) = h / (d - 1000)
d = (1000 * tan(θ2)) / (tan(θ1) - tan(θ2))
h = d * tan(θ1)
Theorems
Trigonometric Ratios
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 9-12
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