Math Problem Statement

In ΔSTU, s = 3.4 cm, m∠T = 165° and m∠U = 13°. Find the length of t, to the nearest tenth of a centimeter.

Solution

To solve the problem provided, let's break it down step-by-step:


Problem Summary:

In triangle STU\triangle STU:

  • s=3.4cms = 3.4 \, \text{cm}
  • mT=165m\angle T = 165^\circ
  • mU=13m\angle U = 13^\circ

We are tasked to find the length of tt, to the nearest tenth of a centimeter.


Solution Steps:

  1. Calculate the Third Angle (S\angle S): Using the triangle angle sum property: mS+mT+mU=180m\angle S + m\angle T + m\angle U = 180^\circ Substituting values: mS=18016513=2m\angle S = 180^\circ - 165^\circ - 13^\circ = 2^\circ

  2. Apply the Law of Sines: The Law of Sines states: ssin(S)=tsin(T)\frac{s}{\sin(S)} = \frac{t}{\sin(T)} Rearranging for tt: t=ssin(T)sin(S)t = \frac{s \cdot \sin(T)}{\sin(S)}

  3. Substitute Known Values:

    • s=3.4cms = 3.4 \, \text{cm}
    • sin(T)=sin(165)\sin(T) = \sin(165^\circ)
    • sin(S)=sin(2)\sin(S) = \sin(2^\circ)

    Using a calculator:

    • sin(165)=sin(180165)=sin(15)0.2588\sin(165^\circ) = \sin(180^\circ - 165^\circ) = \sin(15^\circ) \approx 0.2588
    • sin(2)0.0349\sin(2^\circ) \approx 0.0349

    Substitute into the formula: t=3.40.25880.03490.88000.034925.2cmt = \frac{3.4 \cdot 0.2588}{0.0349} \approx \frac{0.8800}{0.0349} \approx 25.2 \, \text{cm}


Final Answer:

The length of tt is approximately 25.2 cm.


Would you like a detailed explanation of the Law of Sines or another example? Here are some related questions to explore:

  1. What is the Law of Cosines, and how does it compare to the Law of Sines?
  2. How do you calculate angles in a triangle using trigonometric functions?
  3. How would the solution change if the triangle were not obtuse?
  4. Why does the sum of angles in a triangle always equal 180180^\circ?
  5. Can the Law of Sines be used in non-Euclidean geometry?

Tip: Always double-check the calculator's mode (degree or radian) when solving trigonometric problems!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Law of Sines
Triangle Geometry

Formulas

Angle sum property of a triangle: m∠S + m∠T + m∠U = 180°
Law of Sines: s/sin(S) = t/sin(T)

Theorems

Law of Sines

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12