Math Problem Statement

Solve for x in the triangle. Round your answer to the nearest tenth. Given a right triangle with an angle of 22° and the adjacent side length of 15.

Solution

To solve for xx in the right triangle, we can use trigonometric ratios. Here’s the process:

  1. Identify the known and unknown sides in relation to the given angle:

    • The given angle is 2222^\circ.
    • xx is the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle).
    • The side adjacent to the 2222^\circ angle is 1515.
  2. Choose the appropriate trigonometric function:

    • Since we know the adjacent side and want to find the hypotenuse, we use the cosine function.
    • The cosine of an angle in a right triangle is given by: cos(θ)=adjacenthypotenuse\cos(\theta) = \frac{\text{adjacent}}{\text{hypotenuse}}
    • Substituting the known values: cos(22)=15x\cos(22^\circ) = \frac{15}{x}
  3. Solve for xx:

    • Rearrange the equation to isolate xx: x=15cos(22)x = \frac{15}{\cos(22^\circ)}
    • Calculate cos(22)\cos(22^\circ) and solve: x150.927216.2x \approx \frac{15}{0.9272} \approx 16.2

So, the value of xx is approximately 16.2 (rounded to the nearest tenth).

Would you like further details on this solution or have any questions?

Here are some related questions:

  1. How would you find the opposite side if it were unknown?
  2. What would you do if you were given the opposite side instead of the adjacent side?
  3. How does the sine function differ in its application compared to cosine in right triangles?
  4. Why is it important to round to the nearest tenth in some applications?
  5. How can the Pythagorean theorem be used to double-check this result?

Tip: When solving for unknowns in right triangles, always label each side as opposite, adjacent, or hypotenuse based on the given angle to choose the correct trigonometric function.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right Triangle
Cosine Function

Formulas

cos(θ) = adjacent / hypotenuse

Theorems

Trigonometric Ratios in Right Triangles

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10