Math Problem Statement

Find the missing side. Round to the nearest tenth.

Solution

To solve the given problem:

We are solving for the missing side xx in the right triangle. The known values are:

  • The hypotenuse = 14
  • The angle = 5959^\circ

Step-by-Step Solution:

  1. Identify the sides:

    • xx is the adjacent side to the given angle (5959^\circ).
    • The hypotenuse is 14.
  2. Use the cosine function: The cosine function is defined as: cos(θ)=adjacenthypotenuse\cos(\theta) = \frac{\text{adjacent}}{\text{hypotenuse}} Plugging in the values: cos(59)=x14\cos(59^\circ) = \frac{x}{14}

  3. Solve for xx: Multiply both sides by 14 to isolate xx: x=14cos(59)x = 14 \cdot \cos(59^\circ)

  4. Calculate: Using a calculator: cos(59)0.515\cos(59^\circ) \approx 0.515 Therefore: x=140.515=7.21x = 14 \cdot 0.515 = 7.21

Final Answer:

The missing side xx is approximately 7.2 (rounded to the nearest tenth).

Would you like further clarifications or explanations? Here are some related questions for practice:

  1. How would you solve for the other leg using the sine function?
  2. What if the angle were changed to 4545^\circ, how would the result change?
  3. Can you calculate the area of the triangle with these dimensions?
  4. How do trigonometric functions relate to the Pythagorean theorem?
  5. How would you calculate the hypotenuse if given the legs instead?

Tip: Always check that your calculator is set to degrees (not radians) when solving trigonometric problems involving angles in degrees.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right Triangles
Cosine Function

Formulas

cos(θ) = adjacent/hypotenuse

Theorems

Trigonometric Ratios

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11