Math Problem Statement

Solve this triangle. Given that triangle XYZ is a right triangle with sides YZ = 14 and XZ = 19, find the length of XY and the measures of angles X and Z. Round all answers to the nearest whole number.

Solution

To solve this right triangle, we’ll follow these steps to determine the values of XYXY, X\angle X, and Z\angle Z:

  1. Identify the triangle sides and angles:

    • Given YY is a right angle (90°).
    • XYXY is the unknown leg (opposite of Z\angle Z).
    • YZ=14YZ = 14 (opposite of X\angle X).
    • XZ=19XZ = 19 (hypotenuse).
  2. Calculate XYXY using the Pythagorean theorem: XY=XZ2YZ2=192142=361196=16513XY = \sqrt{XZ^2 - YZ^2} = \sqrt{19^2 - 14^2} = \sqrt{361 - 196} = \sqrt{165} \approx 13

  3. Calculate X\angle X using trigonometry (sine): sin(X)=YZXZ=14190.7368\sin(\angle X) = \frac{YZ}{XZ} = \frac{14}{19} \approx 0.7368 Xarcsin(0.7368)48\angle X \approx \arcsin(0.7368) \approx 48^\circ

  4. Calculate Z\angle Z since it complements X\angle X: Z=90X9048=42\angle Z = 90^\circ - \angle X \approx 90^\circ - 48^\circ = 42^\circ

Final Answers:

  • XY13XY \approx 13
  • mX48m\angle X \approx 48^\circ
  • mZ42m\angle Z \approx 42^\circ

The lock code (in order of answers) is: 13, 48, 42

Would you like further details or have questions about this solution?


  1. How is the Pythagorean theorem used to solve for side lengths?
  2. What are the main trigonometric ratios in a right triangle?
  3. How can you use complementary angles in right triangles?
  4. Why is rounding necessary in trigonometric calculations?
  5. How would the process change if X\angle X were given instead?

Tip: Remember that in a right triangle, the two acute angles add up to 90°.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Right Triangles
Pythagorean Theorem
Complementary Angles

Formulas

Pythagorean theorem: a^2 + b^2 = c^2
Sine function: sin(θ) = opposite / hypotenuse
Complementary angles in right triangles: angle sum of non-right angles is 90°

Theorems

Pythagorean theorem
Trigonometric Ratios
Complementary Angles in Right Triangles

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10