Math Problem Statement

Solve for x in the right triangle where angle ECD = 62°, side CD = 15 units, and side ED = x units. Round to the nearest tenth, if necessary.

Solution

This is a right triangle problem, where we need to solve for the side xx using trigonometric functions. Here’s a breakdown of the steps:

  1. Given:

    • Angle ECD=62\angle ECD = 62^\circ (angle adjacent to side CD).
    • CD=15CD = 15 (the side adjacent to the angle).
    • x=EDx = ED (the opposite side).
  2. Trigonometric Function: Since we know the angle and the adjacent side, and we need to find the opposite side, we use the tangent function: tan(θ)=oppositeadjacent\tan(\theta) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{adjacent}} In this case: tan(62)=x15\tan(62^\circ) = \frac{x}{15}

  3. Solving for xx: x=15×tan(62)x = 15 \times \tan(62^\circ)

I will calculate this now.The length of side xx (opposite to the given angle) is approximately 28.2 when rounded to the nearest tenth.

Would you like more details or further clarification on any steps?

Here are 5 related questions for further practice:

  1. How would you calculate the hypotenuse of this triangle?
  2. What if the angle was 4545^\circ? How would that affect xx?
  3. Can you use the sine or cosine functions to solve for xx?
  4. How can you verify the answer using the Pythagorean theorem?
  5. What is the measure of the third angle in this triangle?

Tip: Always keep track of which trigonometric function to use based on the sides involved (opposite, adjacent, hypotenuse).

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right Triangle
Tangent Function

Formulas

tan(θ) = opposite / adjacent

Theorems

Basic Trigonometry
Tangent Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10