Math Problem Statement

Solve for x. Round to the nearest tenth, if necessary. The triangle has a 61° angle, a right angle, the adjacent side labeled as 2.6, and the hypotenuse labeled as x.

Solution

To solve for xx in the given right triangle TVWTVW, we will use trigonometric ratios. Here’s the step-by-step process:


Triangle Analysis:

  1. Given:

    • T=61\angle T = 61^\circ,
    • Adjacent side VW=2.6VW = 2.6 (with respect to T\angle T),
    • Hypotenuse xx is what we need to find.
  2. Trigonometric Ratio:

    • The cosine function relates the adjacent side and the hypotenuse: cos(θ)=adjacenthypotenuse.\cos(\theta) = \frac{\text{adjacent}}{\text{hypotenuse}}. Here, θ=61\theta = 61^\circ, adjacent = 2.62.6, and hypotenuse = xx.

Step-by-Step Solution:

  1. Write the cosine equation: cos(61)=2.6x.\cos(61^\circ) = \frac{2.6}{x}.

  2. Solve for xx by isolating it: x=2.6cos(61).x = \frac{2.6}{\cos(61^\circ)}.

  3. Find cos(61)\cos(61^\circ) using a calculator: cos(61)0.4848.\cos(61^\circ) \approx 0.4848.

  4. Substitute this value into the equation: x=2.60.4848.x = \frac{2.6}{0.4848}.

  5. Perform the division: x5.4.x \approx 5.4.


Final Answer:

The value of xx, rounded to the nearest tenth, is: 5.4\boxed{5.4}

Let me know if you need further explanation or details!


Related Questions:

  1. How would you solve for VWVW if the hypotenuse and angle were different?
  2. Can you explain the sine ratio in this triangle?
  3. How do you determine the third angle in a right triangle?
  4. What are the steps to use the tangent function instead?
  5. How do trigonometric ratios differ from the Pythagorean Theorem?

Tip:

Always identify the opposite, adjacent, and hypotenuse sides relative to the angle you are working with to pick the correct trigonometric ratio.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right Triangle Ratios
Cosine Function

Formulas

cos(θ) = adjacent / hypotenuse

Theorems

Trigonometric Ratios in Right Triangles

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11