Math Problem Statement

Construct the triangle below accurately. Measure the size of angle y in your drawing. Give your answer to the nearest degree.

Solution

To solve this problem, we need to calculate the angle yy in the given triangle using trigonometry.

Step-by-Step Solution:

  1. Identify the sides relative to the angle yy:

    • The adjacent side to yy is 9.6cm9.6 \, \text{cm}.
    • The hypotenuse is 10.7cm10.7 \, \text{cm}.
  2. Use the cosine ratio: The cosine of an angle is defined as: cos(y)=adjacenthypotenuse\cos(y) = \frac{\text{adjacent}}{\text{hypotenuse}} Substituting the given values: cos(y)=9.610.7\cos(y) = \frac{9.6}{10.7}

  3. Calculate cos(y)\cos(y): cos(y)=0.8972(approximately)\cos(y) = 0.8972 \, (\text{approximately})

  4. Find the angle yy: To find yy, take the inverse cosine (cos1\cos^{-1}): y=cos1(0.8972)y = \cos^{-1}(0.8972)

    Using a calculator: y26(to the nearest degree)y \approx 26^\circ \, (\text{to the nearest degree})

Final Answer:

The angle yy is approximately 26 degrees.


Would you like a detailed explanation of the construction process, or do you have any further questions? 😊

Related Questions:

  1. How would you construct this triangle with a compass and straightedge?
  2. What trigonometric ratio would be used to find the angle if the opposite side was given instead of the adjacent side?
  3. Can you calculate the other non-right angle in the triangle?
  4. How would rounding the sides to fewer decimal places affect the accuracy of the angle measurement?
  5. Could you verify this result using the sine or tangent functions?

Tip:

Always ensure your calculator is set to the correct mode (degrees or radians) when solving trigonometric problems!

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right-Angle Triangle Properties
Cosine Ratio

Formulas

cos(y) = adjacent / hypotenuse
y = cos^(-1)(cos(y))

Theorems

Pythagorean Theorem
Trigonometric Ratios

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10