Math Problem Statement

Shown below is a right-angled triangle with sides of 3 cm and 8 cm. Use trigonometry to work out the size of angle x.

Solution

To solve for angle xx in the given right-angled triangle using trigonometry, we can use the tangent function since we are given the opposite side (3 cm) and the adjacent side (8 cm) to angle xx.

The formula for the tangent of an angle in a right-angled triangle is:

tan(x)=oppositeadjacent=38\tan(x) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{adjacent}} = \frac{3}{8}

Now, to find xx, we take the inverse tangent (tan1\tan^{-1}) of the ratio:

x=tan1(38)x = \tan^{-1} \left( \frac{3}{8} \right)

Let me calculate that for you.The size of angle xx is approximately 20.5620.56^\circ.

Would you like more details or have any questions about the solution?

Here are 5 related questions for further practice:

  1. What is the sine of angle xx in this triangle?
  2. How would you find the hypotenuse of the triangle?
  3. Can you calculate the area of the triangle?
  4. What would the angle xx be if the opposite side was 5 cm instead of 3 cm?
  5. How would you use the cosine function to find another angle in the triangle?

Tip: When dealing with right-angled triangles, always identify the sides relative to the angle in question (opposite, adjacent, and hypotenuse) before choosing the correct trigonometric ratio.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right-Angled Triangles

Formulas

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

Theorems

Tangent function in right-angled triangles

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10