Math Problem Statement

Solve for x in the right triangle where one leg is 15 units, one angle is 70°, and the hypotenuse is marked as x.

Solution

This is a right triangle where one leg is 15 units, one angle is 7070^\circ, and the hypotenuse is marked as xx. Let's solve for xx using trigonometric ratios.

The hypotenuse xx can be calculated using the sine function:

sin(angle)=oppositehypotenuse\sin(\text{angle}) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{hypotenuse}}

Here:

  • Opposite = 1515
  • Hypotenuse = xx
  • Angle = 7070^\circ

Substitute into the formula:

sin(70)=15x\sin(70^\circ) = \frac{15}{x}

Rearrange for xx:

x=15sin(70)x = \frac{15}{\sin(70^\circ)}

Step 1: Calculate sin(70)\sin(70^\circ)

Using a calculator: sin(70)0.9397\sin(70^\circ) \approx 0.9397

Step 2: Solve for xx

x=150.939715.96x = \frac{15}{0.9397} \approx 15.96

Final Answer:

x15.96unitsx \approx 15.96 \, \text{units}


Would you like further details or clarification on this? Here are five related questions to explore:

  1. How can we solve for the other leg of the triangle if needed?
  2. What is the relationship between sine, cosine, and tangent for right triangles?
  3. How do trigonometric ratios apply to real-world problems?
  4. Can you use the Pythagorean Theorem to verify this solution?
  5. What happens if the angle changes to 6060^\circ? How does the hypotenuse change?

Tip: Always double-check calculations involving trigonometric functions to ensure proper angle mode (degrees/radians) on your calculator!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right Triangle Properties
Sine Function

Formulas

sin(angle) = opposite / hypotenuse
x = opposite / sin(angle)

Theorems

Basic Trigonometric Ratios

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12