Math Problem Statement

A flagpole AB, of height 5.8 m, stands on top of a wall BC. ABC forms a straight line. The wall leans slightly so that it makes an angle of 96° with the horizontal ground CD. The angle of elevation of the top of the wall, B, from the point D is 39°. Given that BD is 27.3 m, calculate AD.

Solution

In this problem, we are given a triangle formed by the flagpole and wall, and we need to calculate the distance ADAD. Let’s break down the information provided:

  • The flagpole ABAB has a height of 5.8 m.
  • The horizontal distance BDBD is 27.3 m.
  • The angle of elevation of the top of the wall BB from point DD is 39°.
  • The angle CC between BCBC and CDCD is 96°.

Step-by-step approach:

  1. Right Triangle BCD: Use the information in this triangle to solve for side BCBC. In triangle BCDBCD:

    • BD=27.3BD = 27.3 m
    • Angle BDC=39\angle BDC = 39^\circ
    • Use the tangent of the angle to solve for BCBC: tan(39)=BCBD\tan(39^\circ) = \frac{BC}{BD} Solving for BCBC: BC=BD×tan(39)BC = BD \times \tan(39^\circ)
  2. Total distance ADAD: Once BCBC is known, add the height of the flagpole ABAB (which is vertical) to BCBC to find the total distance ADAD.

Let me calculate this now.The total distance ADAD, from point AA (the top of the flagpole) to point DD, is approximately 27.91 meters.

Do you want more details on any of the steps, or do you have any further questions?

Here are 5 related questions you can explore:

  1. How would the solution change if the height of the flagpole were different?
  2. What if the angle of elevation was larger or smaller—how would it affect the distance?
  3. Can we determine the length of CDCD based on the given angles and distances?
  4. How do we apply the Law of Sines or Cosines in problems involving non-right triangles?
  5. What other trigonometric identities could simplify this problem?

Tip: Always keep track of the units and make sure they are consistent throughout the problem to avoid calculation errors.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right Triangle
Angle of Elevation

Formulas

tan(θ) = opposite/adjacent
Pythagorean theorem for total distance

Theorems

Trigonometric Ratios
Pythagorean Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12