Math Problem Statement

Solve for x. Round to the nearest tenth, if necessary. The problem shows a right triangle with angle ∠C = 46°, side BC = 44 units, and hypotenuse AC = x.

Solution

The problem shows a right triangle with angle C=46\angle C = 46^\circ, side BC=44BC = 44 units, and hypotenuse AC=xAC = x. We are asked to solve for xx.

To solve for xx, we can use trigonometry, specifically the cosine function, because the cosine of an angle is defined as the adjacent side divided by the hypotenuse in a right triangle.

cos(θ)=adjacenthypotenuse\cos(\theta) = \frac{\text{adjacent}}{\text{hypotenuse}}

For θ=46\theta = 46^\circ, the adjacent side is BC=44BC = 44, and the hypotenuse is xx. So,

cos(46)=44x\cos(46^\circ) = \frac{44}{x}

Now, solve for xx:

x=44cos(46)x = \frac{44}{\cos(46^\circ)}

Using a calculator:

cos(46)0.6947\cos(46^\circ) \approx 0.6947

x=440.694763.3x = \frac{44}{0.6947} \approx 63.3

Thus, the value of xx is approximately 63.363.3.

Would you like more details on this? Here are some related questions you might explore:

  1. How do you determine when to use sine, cosine, or tangent in a right triangle?
  2. How does the value of the cosine function change as the angle increases?
  3. What are the properties of right triangles and their trigonometric ratios?
  4. Can you derive the sine rule from basic trigonometric identities?
  5. How would the problem change if the given angle was 904690^\circ - 46^\circ?

Tip: Always double-check your calculator's mode to ensure it's in degrees, not radians, when dealing with angles measured in degrees!

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

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 9-11