Math Problem Statement

If A = 37° and c = 88 cm, find b in a right triangle where C = 90°.

Solution

To solve the problem, we need to find the length of side bb in a right triangle where:

  • C=90C = 90^\circ
  • A=37A = 37^\circ
  • Hypotenuse c=88c = 88 cm

Since this is a right triangle, we can use trigonometric functions. Given the angle A=37A = 37^\circ and hypotenuse cc, we can use the cosine function to find side bb, which is adjacent to angle AA.

Step-by-step Solution:

  1. Identify the Formula: cos(A)=adjacent side (b)hypotenuse (c)\cos(A) = \frac{\text{adjacent side (b)}}{\text{hypotenuse (c)}}

  2. Substitute the Given Values: cos(37)=b88\cos(37^\circ) = \frac{b}{88}

  3. Solve for bb: b=88×cos(37)b = 88 \times \cos(37^\circ)

  4. Calculate the Value: b88×0.7986=70.2768b \approx 88 \times 0.7986 = 70.2768

  5. Round to the Nearest Whole Number: b70 cmb \approx 70 \text{ cm}

Answer:

The length of side bb is approximately 70 cm.

Would you like more details or have any other questions?

Here are 5 related questions to further expand on this topic:

  1. How do you find the length of the other leg in a right triangle given one leg and the hypotenuse?
  2. What is the sine of an angle in a right triangle and how can it be used to find missing sides?
  3. How can the Pythagorean Theorem be applied to solve problems involving right triangles?
  4. How would you solve for the remaining angle BB in this triangle?
  5. What is the tangent function and how is it used in solving right triangle problems?

Tip: When working with trigonometric functions, make sure your calculator is set to the correct mode (degrees or radians) based on the given problem.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right Triangle

Formulas

cos(A) = adjacent/hypotenuse

Theorems

Right Triangle Trigonometry

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11