Math Problem Statement

Find the value of x using the figure to the right.

Solution

The image shows a right triangle where one leg is 21 units, the other leg is 10 units, and xx is the angle between the 21-unit leg and the hypotenuse.

To find the angle xx, we can use trigonometric functions. Since we have the opposite side (10 units) and the adjacent side (21 units), we will use the tangent function:

tan(x)=oppositeadjacent=1021\tan(x) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{adjacent}} = \frac{10}{21}

Now, solve for xx:

x=tan1(1021)x = \tan^{-1}\left(\frac{10}{21}\right)

Using a calculator to find the inverse tangent:

xtan1(0.476)25.29x \approx \tan^{-1}(0.476) \approx 25.29^\circ

So, the value of xx is approximately 25.2925.29^\circ.

Would you like more details, or do you have any questions?

Here are five related questions:

  1. How would the calculation change if the hypotenuse were known instead of both legs?
  2. Can you find the other angle in the triangle?
  3. How do we calculate the hypotenuse length using the Pythagorean theorem in this case?
  4. What are the values of sine and cosine for the angle xx?
  5. How do we convert the angle xx from degrees to radians?

Tip: Always ensure your calculator is set to the correct mode (degrees or radians) when working with trigonometric functions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right Triangle

Formulas

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

Theorems

Inverse Tangent Function

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11