Math Problem Statement

Solve for x in the right triangle with opposite side 8 and adjacent side 6. Which trigonometric function should you use?

Solution

To solve for angle xx in the given right triangle, we can use trigonometric functions. The sides provided are the opposite side (length 88) and the adjacent side (length 66) relative to angle xx.

Step-by-Step Solution:

  1. Identify the trigonometric function to use:

    • Sine function: sin(x)=oppositehypotenuse\sin(x) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{hypotenuse}}
    • Cosine function: cos(x)=adjacenthypotenuse\cos(x) = \frac{\text{adjacent}}{\text{hypotenuse}}
    • Tangent function: tan(x)=oppositeadjacent\tan(x) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{adjacent}}

    Since you have the lengths of the opposite side (8) and the adjacent side (6), the appropriate function to use is Tangent.

  2. Apply the tangent function: tan(x)=oppositeadjacent=86=43\tan(x) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{adjacent}} = \frac{8}{6} = \frac{4}{3}

  3. Solve for xx: x=tan1(43)x = \tan^{-1}\left(\frac{4}{3}\right) Using a calculator or trigonometric table: x53.13x \approx 53.13^\circ

Answer:

The correct function to use is C. Tangent, and the value of xx is approximately 53.1353.13^\circ.

Would you like more details on how to calculate the arctangent or have any other questions?


Related Questions:

  1. What are the exact values for sine and cosine of this angle xx?
  2. How would you solve for the hypotenuse using the given side lengths?
  3. What is the relationship between sine, cosine, and tangent in a right triangle?
  4. How can you verify the angle using the sine or cosine function?
  5. How do you convert this angle from degrees to radians?

Tip: In trigonometry, it's important to always identify which sides of the triangle you are dealing with (opposite, adjacent, hypotenuse) before selecting a trigonometric function.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right Triangle

Formulas

tan(x) = opposite / adjacent
x = tan^(-1)(opposite / adjacent)

Theorems

Basic Trigonometric Functions
Inverse Tangent

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10