Math Problem Statement
Solution
Let's break this problem down and solve it step by step:
Part a) Drawing a rough figure
We can visualize the problem by drawing two right-angled triangles representing the two different observations by the boy.
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Initial position: The boy is standing at a point where he sees the top of the tower at an elevation of . Let’s call the horizontal distance between this position and the base of the tower as .
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Stepping back 20 meters: The boy steps back 20 meters, and the elevation to the top of the tower decreases to . Let the new distance from the tower be .
The height of the tower is the same in both triangles, and the boy's height (1 meter) is factored in.
Part b) Finding the height of the tower
Let’s assume:
- is the height of the tower.
- is the initial horizontal distance from the tower.
We have two right-angled triangles:
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From the first observation at , we can use the trigonometric relation: This gives us:
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From the second observation at , the relation is:
Solving for and :
From Equation 1 and Equation 2, we have two expressions for . Equating them gives: Multiplying both sides by to eliminate the fraction:
Now, substitute back into Equation 1 to find the height of the tower:
Thus, the height of the tower is approximately 18.32 meters.
Do you need further clarifications or details?
Here are five related questions to deepen your understanding:
- How would the calculations change if the boy's height were different?
- What would happen to the angle of elevation if the boy moved even further back?
- How can we verify the answer using trigonometric identities?
- How do different trigonometric functions relate to angle and distance in such problems?
- Can this problem be solved graphically as well?
Tip: Always double-check your trigonometric calculations, especially when working with different angles and distances.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Trigonometry
Right-Angled Triangles
Angle of Elevation
Formulas
tan(θ) = opposite/adjacent
Theorems
Trigonometric Ratios
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 9-11
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