Math Problem Statement

Use a trigonometric ratio to find the length of x in the triangle. Give your answer to two decimal places.

Solution

To solve for xx in this right triangle using trigonometric ratios, let’s examine the given information:

  1. We have a right triangle.
  2. The angle opposite the given side is 2828^\circ.
  3. The length of the adjacent side (to the angle 2828^\circ) is 99 meters.
  4. We need to find the length of the hypotenuse xx.

Step-by-Step Solution

Since we know the adjacent side and need to find the hypotenuse, we can use the cosine ratio:

cos(28)=adjacenthypotenuse\cos(28^\circ) = \frac{\text{adjacent}}{\text{hypotenuse}}

Substitute the known values:

cos(28)=9x\cos(28^\circ) = \frac{9}{x}

Rearrange to solve for xx:

x=9cos(28)x = \frac{9}{\cos(28^\circ)}

Calculation

Using a calculator:

  1. Find cos(28)0.8829\cos(28^\circ) \approx 0.8829.
  2. Divide 99 by 0.88290.8829:

x90.882910.19 metersx \approx \frac{9}{0.8829} \approx 10.19 \text{ meters}

Answer

The length of xx is approximately 10.19 meters, rounded to two decimal places.

Would you like further details on any of these steps or have any questions?


Additional Questions for Practice:

  1. How would you find the opposite side in a similar triangle if the hypotenuse were known?
  2. What is the value of the sine function for a 2828^\circ angle?
  3. How do you calculate the length of the hypotenuse if given the opposite side instead?
  4. Can you use the tangent ratio in this case, and why or why not?
  5. How would the answer change if the angle were larger?

Tip:

Always double-check that you are using the correct trigonometric ratio based on the sides given in relation to the specified angle.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right Triangle Ratios
Cosine

Formulas

cos(angle) = adjacent / hypotenuse

Theorems

Trigonometric Ratios in Right Triangles

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10