Math Problem Statement

What is the measure of angle ABC, in degrees? Round to whole degrees.

Solution

The image shows a right triangle with the following information:

  • Side AD=4AD = 4
  • Side AB=5AB = 5
  • Side BC=4BC = 4

You're asked to find the measure of angle ABC\angle ABC in degrees.

Since the triangle is a right triangle (the right angle is marked at DD), you can use trigonometry to find ABC\angle ABC. The tangent function is useful here, as it relates the opposite side to the adjacent side in a right triangle.

The formula for tangent is: tan(θ)=oppositeadjacent\tan(\theta) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{adjacent}}

In this case, the opposite side to ABC\angle ABC is AD=4AD = 4, and the adjacent side is BC=4BC = 4.

So: tan(ABC)=44=1\tan(\angle ABC) = \frac{4}{4} = 1

Now, find the angle whose tangent is 1. This corresponds to: ABC=tan1(1)=45\angle ABC = \tan^{-1}(1) = 45^\circ

Thus, the measure of ABC\angle ABC is 4545^\circ.

Would you like further details or have any questions? Here are some related questions:

  1. How do you use other trigonometric functions to find angles in right triangles?
  2. Can the Pythagorean theorem be used to check the sides of a right triangle?
  3. How do you find the other angle in a right triangle when one is known?
  4. What is the difference between sine, cosine, and tangent functions in trigonometry?
  5. How do you calculate angles using the sine or cosine rule?

Tip: Remember to use a calculator in degree mode when working with trigonometric functions!

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right Triangles
Tangent Function

Formulas

tan(θ) = opposite/adjacent

Theorems

Pythagorean Theorem (used conceptually)

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11