Math Problem Statement
A lighthouse sits at the edge of a cliff, as shown. A ship at sea level is 980 meters from the base of the cliff. The angle of elevation from sea level to the base of the lighthouse is 47.3\deg . The angle of elevation from sea level to the top of the lighthouse is 51.3\deg . Find the height of the lighthouse from the top of the cliff. Do not round any intermediate computations. Round your answer to the nearest tenth. Note that the figure below is not drawn to scale.
Solution
To solve this problem, we'll break it down into steps using trigonometry. Here's a step-by-step approach:
Step 1: Define the variables
- Let be the height of the cliff.
- Let be the height of the lighthouse from the top of the cliff.
- The total height of the lighthouse from sea level is .
Step 2: Use the angle of elevation to the base of the lighthouse
Using the tangent function for the angle of elevation to the base of the lighthouse:
Step 3: Use the angle of elevation to the top of the lighthouse
Similarly, using the tangent function for the angle of elevation to the top of the lighthouse:
Step 4: Solve for
We can find by subtracting the equation for from the equation for :
Step 5: Calculate the value of
Let's compute the values.
Now, I'll perform the calculations.The height of the lighthouse from the top of the cliff is approximately 161.2 meters, rounded to the nearest tenth.
Would you like more details or have any questions?
Here are some related questions:
- How would the result change if the distance from the ship to the cliff increased?
- What if the angles of elevation were smaller? How would that affect the height?
- Can you determine the total height of the lighthouse from sea level?
- How can this method be applied to find the height of a mountain?
- What would happen if the angle to the base and the top were the same?
Tip: When solving trigonometric problems involving angles of elevation, always ensure your calculator is in the correct mode (degrees or radians).
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Trigonometry
Angles of Elevation
Tangent Function
Formulas
tan(θ) = opposite/adjacent
h1 = 980 * tan(47.3°)
h1 + h2 = 980 * tan(51.3°)
Theorems
Tangent Function in Right-Angle Triangles
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 10-12
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