Math Problem Statement

Work out the height, h, of the triangle below. Give your answer in its simplest form.

Solution

To solve for the height hh of the triangle:

Step-by-step:

  1. Identify relevant triangle and relationships:

    • The given triangle has an angle of 4545^\circ, which forms a right triangle when considering the perpendicular height hh.
    • The hypotenuse of this triangle is 34cm34 \, \text{cm}.
    • The angle adjacent to hh and the 4545^\circ triangle is 10590=15105^\circ - 90^\circ = 15^\circ.
  2. Decompose the problem:

    • The side hh is opposite to the 4545^\circ angle.
    • Use trigonometry to relate hh and the hypotenuse 34cm34 \, \text{cm}.
  3. Use the sine function: For the triangle: sin(45)=h34\sin(45^\circ) = \frac{h}{34} Therefore: h=34sin(45)h = 34 \cdot \sin(45^\circ)

  4. Calculate sin(45)\sin(45^\circ): The exact value of sin(45)\sin(45^\circ) is: sin(45)=22\sin(45^\circ) = \frac{\sqrt{2}}{2} Substituting: h=3422=172cmh = 34 \cdot \frac{\sqrt{2}}{2} = 17\sqrt{2} \, \text{cm}

Final Answer:

h=172cmh = 17\sqrt{2} \, \text{cm}


Would you like further explanation or more details on the steps?


Follow-Up Questions:

  1. What is the relationship between trigonometric functions and right triangles?
  2. How do you simplify expressions involving square roots?
  3. Why is sin(45)=22\sin(45^\circ) = \frac{\sqrt{2}}{2}?
  4. Can you generalize this method for any angle in a triangle?
  5. What other trigonometric ratios could be used to solve for hh?

Tip:

Always label known sides and angles clearly when working with trigonometric problems—it simplifies identifying the appropriate formula.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right Triangle Geometry
Sine Function

Formulas

sin(angle) = opposite / hypotenuse
sin(45°) = √2 / 2

Theorems

Trigonometric Ratios in Right Triangles

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11