Math Problem Statement

What is the measure in degrees of ∠XYZ in the figure shown?

Solution

To find the measure of angle XYZ\angle XYZ in the given right triangle, we can use trigonometric functions. Here's the step-by-step process:

Step 1: Identify the Triangle Sides

  • Hypotenuse: YZ=83YZ = 8\sqrt{3}
  • Adjacent Side to XYZ\angle XYZ: XY=43XY = 4\sqrt{3}
  • Opposite Side to XYZ\angle XYZ: Since this is a right triangle, XYZ\triangle XYZ has a right angle at XX, making the opposite side of XYZ\angle XYZ the side that is perpendicular to XYXY, which is 838\sqrt{3} because ZZ is the hypotenuse opposite the right angle.

Step 2: Select the Appropriate Trigonometric Function

Since we have the adjacent side (XYXY) and the hypotenuse (YZYZ), we use the cosine function: cos(XYZ)=AdjacentHypotenuse=XYYZ=4383.\cos(\angle XYZ) = \frac{\text{Adjacent}}{\text{Hypotenuse}} = \frac{XY}{YZ} = \frac{4\sqrt{3}}{8\sqrt{3}}.

Step 3: Simplify the Ratio

cos(XYZ)=4383=48=12.\cos(\angle XYZ) = \frac{4\sqrt{3}}{8\sqrt{3}} = \frac{4}{8} = \frac{1}{2}.

Step 4: Find the Angle

The angle whose cosine is 12\frac{1}{2} is 6060^\circ: XYZ=60.\angle XYZ = 60^\circ.

So, the measure of XYZ\angle XYZ is 60 degrees.

Would you like further details or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions to expand your understanding:

  1. How would you find XYZ\angle XYZ using the sine or tangent function?
  2. What is the length of the side opposite XYZ\angle XYZ in this triangle?
  3. Can you find the measure of the other non-right angle in this triangle?
  4. How can you verify that the sum of angles in a triangle is 180180^\circ?
  5. What is the relationship between the sides of a 30-60-90 triangle?

Tip: In a right triangle, the cosine of an angle is equal to the ratio of the length of the adjacent side to the hypotenuse.

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right Triangles

Formulas

cos(θ) = Adjacent / Hypotenuse

Theorems

Pythagorean Theorem
Cosine Rule for Right Angles

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12