Math Problem Statement

a=3 b=9 r=120 degrees c=?

Solution

It looks like you're asking for the value of cc in a triangle with given values:

  • a=3a = 3
  • b=9b = 9
  • r=120r = 120^\circ (this likely represents the angle between sides aa and bb)

We can use the Law of Cosines to solve for side cc:

c2=a2+b22abcos(r)c^2 = a^2 + b^2 - 2ab \cdot \cos(r)

Substitute the given values into the formula:

c2=32+92239cos(120)c^2 = 3^2 + 9^2 - 2 \cdot 3 \cdot 9 \cdot \cos(120^\circ)

Now calculate step by step:

  1. 32=93^2 = 9
  2. 92=819^2 = 81
  3. cos(120)=12\cos(120^\circ) = -\frac{1}{2}

Substitute these values into the equation:

c2=9+81239(12)c^2 = 9 + 81 - 2 \cdot 3 \cdot 9 \cdot \left(-\frac{1}{2}\right)

Simplifying further:

c2=9+81+27c^2 = 9 + 81 + 27

c2=117c^2 = 117

Finally, take the square root of both sides:

c=11710.82c = \sqrt{117} \approx 10.82

So, c10.82c \approx 10.82.

Would you like to see further details, or do you have any questions on this?

Here are 5 related questions:

  1. How can we use the Law of Sines in this problem instead of the Law of Cosines?
  2. What is the general form of the Law of Cosines?
  3. How does the angle affect the length of side cc in this situation?
  4. Can the Law of Cosines be used for obtuse angles as well?
  5. How do you determine which law to use in a triangle problem?

Tip: Always double-check the angle's unit (degrees or radians) before applying trigonometric functions!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Law of Cosines
Algebra

Formulas

c^2 = a^2 + b^2 - 2ab * cos(r)

Theorems

Law of Cosines

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11