Math Problem Statement

a vertical pole 6 feet high casts a shadow 4 feet long. at the same time a tree casts a shadow 64 feet long. what is the height in feet of the tree?

Solution

To find the height of the tree, we can use the concept of similar triangles. The ratio of the height of the pole to the length of its shadow will be the same as the ratio of the height of the tree to the length of its shadow.

Let hh be the height of the tree. According to the problem:

Height of the poleLength of the pole’s shadow=Height of the treeLength of the tree’s shadow\frac{\text{Height of the pole}}{\text{Length of the pole's shadow}} = \frac{\text{Height of the tree}}{\text{Length of the tree's shadow}}

Substitute the known values:

64=h64\frac{6}{4} = \frac{h}{64}

Now solve for hh:

64=h64\frac{6}{4} = \frac{h}{64}

Multiply both sides by 64 to isolate hh:

h=64×64h = \frac{6}{4} \times 64

Simplifying:

h=1.5×64=96h = 1.5 \times 64 = 96

Thus, the height of the tree is 96\boxed{96} feet.

Would you like further details or explanations?

Here are some related questions:

  1. What is the concept of similar triangles?
  2. How can you use proportions to solve problems like this?
  3. What other real-world applications involve similar triangles?
  4. How would this change if the sun's angle changed?
  5. How does this method apply to other geometrical shapes?

Tip: Always look for proportions when dealing with similar shapes or figures in geometry!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Similar Triangles
Proportions

Formulas

(Height of pole / Length of pole's shadow) = (Height of tree / Length of tree's shadow)

Theorems

Similar Triangles Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8