Math Problem Statement
Find the length of the opposite side, b.
Write each line of working as an equation.
Solution
This is a right-angled triangle. To find the length of the opposite side (denoted as ), we'll use trigonometry. Based on the diagram, we can use the sine function, as it relates the opposite side, hypotenuse, and angle .
Here are the steps:
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Identify the sides and angle:
- Opposite side to is the side , which we are calling .
- The hypotenuse is side , which is 5 units.
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Apply the sine function:
- The sine of an angle is the ratio of the opposite side to the hypotenuse:
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Solve for :
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Determine : Since is a right triangle and , we can use the tangent function to find . The tangent function is the ratio of the opposite side to the adjacent side:
Using inverse tangent:
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Calculate and then : Let's now calculate and the final length of the opposite side.
I will compute that next.The angle is approximately .
Using this angle, the length of the opposite side is calculated as 3 units.
This matches the given value for side , confirming that the calculation is correct.
Would you like more details or have any questions? Here are some related questions for further understanding:
- What is the relationship between sine, cosine, and tangent in a right triangle?
- How can the cosine function be used to solve for an adjacent side?
- What is the Pythagorean theorem, and how can it verify the side lengths of a triangle?
- How can you calculate the other angles in the triangle using trigonometric ratios?
- How does the inverse sine function work in solving for angles?
Tip: Always make sure your calculator is set to the correct mode (degrees or radians) when performing trigonometric calculations.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Trigonometry
Sine Function
Tangent Function
Formulas
sin(θ) = opposite / hypotenuse
tan(θ) = opposite / adjacent
b = hypotenuse × sin(θ)
Theorems
Pythagorean Theorem
Trigonometric Ratios
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 9-11
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