Math Problem Statement
Solve the following calculus problem: if a man 6 ft tall is walking away from a lamp post 13 ft tall. If the man is walking at the speed of 7 ft/s, how fast is the length of his shadow changing when he is 4 ft from the lamp post ?
Solution
To solve this problem, we need to use related rates in calculus. Let's define the variables and set up the relationships between them.
- Let be the distance between the man and the lamp post.
- Let be the length of the man's shadow.
- Let be the total distance from the lamp post to the tip of the shadow, so .
We know that the man is walking away from the lamp post at a speed of 7 ft/s, so ft/s.
Given:
- Height of the lamp post = 13 ft
- Height of the man = 6 ft
Using similar triangles, we can write the following relationship between the heights and lengths: Solving for : Since : Solving for :
Now we differentiate both sides with respect to time : We know ft/s:
Thus, the length of the man's shadow is changing at a rate of 6 ft/s when he is 4 ft from the lamp post.
Would you like a more detailed explanation or have any other questions?
Here are 5 numbered questions you might ask next:
- How do related rates problems work in general?
- Can you solve another related rates problem?
- How do you set up and solve similar triangles in word problems?
- Can you explain the concept of differentiation in calculus?
- How do you handle more complex related rates problems involving multiple variables?
Tip: When solving related rates problems, always start by identifying and relating all the variables involved before differentiating.
Ask a new question for Free
By Image
Drop file here or Click Here to upload
Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Calculus
Related Rates
Similar Triangles
Formulas
-
Theorems
-
Suitable Grade Level
Advanced High School
Related Recommendation
Calculate Shadow Tip Movement Speed in Related Rates Problem
Related Rates Problem: Man's Shadow Lengthening from a Lamppost
Rate of Change of Shadow Length Using Trigonometry and Calculus
Rate of Change of the Tip of a Shadow: A Related Rates Problem
Related Rates Problem: Man Walking Towards Street Light