UNIVERSITY OF THE CORDILLERAS COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE

MATH 122 BRIDGING MATHEMATICS

MODULE 3: TRIGONOMETRY

UNIT 1: TYPES OF TRIANGLES

 UNIT LEARNING OUTCOMES
In this unit, here are the following desired learning outcomes:
✘ Introduce the different types of triangles.
✘ Use trigonometric functions and the Pythagorean Theorem to solve
right triangles.

2
 INTRODUCTION
TRIGONOMETRY is thought to have had its origin in Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. The ancient Egyptians,
Babylonians and Greeks developed Trigonometry to find the lengths of the sides of triangles and the
measures of their angles. It was Hipparchus (The Father of Trigonometry) a Greek Mathematician, who
introduced Trigonometry as gleaned from ancient tablets and tables which reflected work on the ratios of
Trigonometry.

TRIGONOMETRY which means triangle measurement deals with triangles. It treats of the measurement of
the parts of a triangle and the properties and relations concerning the behavior of the trigonometric
functions. Because of the various developments in science and mathematics, modern Trigonometry adopts
the functions approach. Trigonometric functions describe many natural phenomena and are, therefore,
important in the study of optics, heat, electronics, x-ray, acoustics, seismology and many more. These
functions are similarly important in the study of higher mathematics courses.

Varied practical applications of Trigonometry are found in astronomy, engineering, navigation, surveying
and other related sciences. A thorough knowledge of Trigonometry is essential in solving problems arising in
mensuration, in designing roads, bridges, machines and houses and in determining lengths and distances
especially those which are not directly measurable. 3
 ANGLES

An angle is formed by rotating a ray around its

endpoint. The initial position of the ray is the initial
side of the angle, while the location of the ray at the
end of its rotation is the terminal side of the angle.

The endpoint of the rotated ray is the vertex of the

angle. Here we shall use the words "rotation" and
"angle" interchangeably.

4
 ANGLES

An angle may be named by referring to its vertex

whenever it is clearly indicated, by using three
letters - representing one point from each of the
two sides of the angle and the vertex and by using a
number placed in the interior of the angle.

For example, the adjoining angle can be referred to

as ∠𝐴, ∠𝐵𝐴𝐶, ∠𝐶𝐴𝐵 or ∠1. Angles may also be
referred to by using Greek letters like 𝛼 (alpha), 𝛽
(beta), 𝛾 (gamma), 𝜃 (theta), etc.

5
 ANGLES

The degree measure is indicated by a tiny circle

placed in the upper right corner of the number. The
size of an angles is indicated the amount of rotating
the terminal side from the initial side.

A horizontal line is sometimes called the real line.

This line is divided into two equal rays by a point
called the origin denoted as 0. The right ray of the
horizontal line is usually the start of measuring
angles.

Angles between 0° to 90° is said to terminate in

Quadrant I; 90° to 180° in Quadrant II; 180° to 270° in
Quadrant III; and 270° to 360° in Quadrant IV; 360° to
450° in Quadrant I; etc.
6
 ANGLES
An angle is considered positive if rotation is
counterclockwise, and negative if clockwise.

A rotation is measured with reference to a circle in

terms of degrees. A complete rotation of a ray gives
1
an angle whose measure is 360°. A degree is of a
360
complete rotation.

The degree has finer subdivisions - the minutes and

the seconds. To represent degree, minute and
second, we use the symbols °, ′, ", respectively, as
superscripts where 1° = 60′and 1′ = 60′′. With these
equivalences, we can convert measures of angles in
degrees to measures involving minutes and seconds
and vice-versa.
7
 KINDS OF ANGLES
1. Acute angle - an angle between 0° to 90°. 5. Reflex angle - an angle between 180° to 360°.

Complementary angles- two angles with a

2. Right angle - an angle measuring exactly 90°. 6. sum of 90°.

3. Obtuse angle - an angle between 90° to 180°. 7. Supplementary angles- two angles with a
sum of 180°.

4. Straight angle - an angle measuring exactly 180°.

8
 TRIANGLES
A triangle is the figure formed by three noncollinear
points and the three line segments that join them.
The points are the vertices of the triangle and the
line segments are the sides of the triangle.

In general, we name a triangle by referring to its

vertices which are represented by uppercase letters,
say triangle 𝐴𝐵𝐶. By convention, each side of the
triangle is named by using the corresponding lower
case letter that represents the vertex opposite it as
shown in the figure.

9
 TYPES OF TRIANGLES
Triangles are generally classified as scalene, isosceles or equilateral. A
scalene triangle has no two sides congruent; an isosceles triangle has two
sides congruent; an equilateral triangle has all sides congruent.

10
 TYPES OF TRIANGLES
Triangles may be further classified as acute, obtuse or right. A triangle is said to be acute if all of its
angles are acute. It is obtuse if it contains one obtuse angle. A right triangle is a triangle with one
right angle. The side opposite the right angle is called the hypotenuse. The hypotenuse is the
longest side of a right triangle. Each of the perpendicular sides of a right triangle is called the leg of
the triangle. The sum of the measures of the angles of a triangle is equal to 180°.

11
 UNIVERSITY OF THE CORDILLERAS COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE

MATH 122 BRIDGING MATHEMATICS

MODULE 3: TRIGONOMETRY

UNIT 2: SOLUTION OF RIGHT TRIANGLES

 RIGHT TRIANGLES
A right angle has a value of 90 𝑑𝑒𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑒𝑠 (90°). A right
triangle is a triangle in which one angle is a right
angle. The relation between the sides and angles of a
right triangle is the basis for trigonometry.

The side opposite the right angle is called the

hypotenuse (side 𝑐 in the figure). The sides adjacent
to the right angle are called legs (sides 𝑎 and 𝑏).

Side 𝑎 may be Identified as the side adjacent to

angle 𝐵 and opposed to (or opposite) angle 𝐴.

Side 𝑏 is the side adjacent to angle 𝐴 and opposed to

angle 𝐵.

13
 THE PYTHAGOREAN THEOREM
The Pythagorean Theorem, also known as
Pythagoras" Theorem, is a fundamental relation in
Euclidean geometry. It defines the relationship
among the three sides of a right triangle.

It states that the square of the hypotenuse (the side

opposite the right angle) is equal to the sum of the
squares of the other two sides. The theorem can be
written as an equation relating the lengths of the
sides 𝑎, 𝑏 and 𝑐, often called the "Pythagorean
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏2 → 𝑐 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏2
equation".
𝑎= 𝑐 2 − 𝑏2 𝑜𝑟 𝑏 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
Where:
𝑐 = ℎ𝑦𝑝𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑢𝑠𝑒
𝑎 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑏 = 𝑙𝑒𝑔𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑟𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑙𝑒
14
 TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS
A right triangle has six principal parts - three sides
denoted as 𝑎, 𝑏, 𝑐 and their three corresponding
angle. Denoted by∠𝐴, ∠𝐵, ∠𝐶.The angle ∠𝐶is usually
given 90° and the other two angles, ∠𝐴and ∠𝐵as
acute.
𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝐴
Trigonometric functions are names such as 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝐵
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑒, 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑒, 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑛𝑡, 𝑐𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑛𝑡, 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑎𝑛𝑡 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑎𝑛𝑡
of an acute angle.
The definitions of these six functions are merely
based on the possible ratios formed out of the three
sides of a triangle. Certainly, there are six functions 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝐵
because of the six ratios of the sides. 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝐴
It is meaningful to state the definitions of the six
functions in terms of an acute angle, ∠𝐴 or∠𝐵. If ∠𝐴
is considered an acute angle of ∆𝐴𝐵𝐶 then we shall
call 15
 TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS
If the trigonometric functions are abbreviated, then
the definitions are as follows:

𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝑡𝑜 𝛼

𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 =
𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 ℎ𝑦𝑝𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑢𝑠𝑒
𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝛼
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝐴 = 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝐴
𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 ℎ𝑦𝑝𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑢𝑠𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝐵
𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝑡𝑜 𝛼
𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐴 =
𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝛼

𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 ℎ𝑦𝑝𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑢𝑠𝑒

𝑐𝑠𝑐𝐴 =
𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝑡𝑜 𝛼 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝐵
𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 ℎ𝑦𝑝𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑢𝑠𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝐴
𝑠𝑒𝑐𝐴 =
𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝛼
𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝛼
𝑐𝑜𝑡𝐴 =
𝑡𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝑡𝑜 𝛼
16
 TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS
For the given triangle considering angle 𝛼, the six
trigonometric functions are defined as follows:

𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒

𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 = ; 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝐴 = ; 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐴 =
ℎ𝑦𝑝𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑢𝑠𝑒 ℎ𝑦𝑝𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑢𝑠𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡

ℎ𝑦𝑝𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑢𝑠𝑒 ℎ𝑦𝑝𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑢𝑠𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡

𝑐𝑠𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑐𝑜𝑡𝐴 = 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝐴
𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝐵
𝑎 𝑏 𝑏
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 = ; 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝐴 = ; 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐴 =
𝑐 𝑐 𝑎

𝑐 𝑐 𝑏
𝑐𝑠𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑐𝑜𝑡𝐴 =
𝑎 𝑏 𝑎 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝐵
𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝐴

17
 TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS

A common mnemonic for remembering the

relationships between the Sine, cosine, and
Tangent functions is
SohCahToa.
𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝐴
𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝐵
SohCahToa is formed from the first letters of
"Sine is opposite over hypotenuse (Soh),
Cosine is adjacent over hypotenuse (Cah),
Tangent is opposite over adjacent (Toa)."
𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝐵
𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑎𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝐴

18
EXAMPLE 1. *To find the values of the other parts of the triangle,
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 =
𝑎
𝑐
𝑏
; 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝐴 = ; 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐴 =
𝑐
𝑏
𝑎
𝑐 𝑐 𝑏
𝑐𝑠𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑐𝑜𝑡𝐴 =
let us use the information given in the problem 𝑎 𝑏 𝑎
Solve right triangle ABC with rather than the calculated value of a. In solving a 𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 → 𝑐 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2
𝐴 = 36°50′ and 𝑐 = 92.7 𝑐𝑚. problem it is usually best to use, whenever possible, 𝑎= 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑜𝑟 𝑏 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
given data rather than calculated results to find the
other unknowns in the problem because if mistakes
**The value of b can also be found using the
were incurred in previous computations, the
Pythagorean theorem. However, this theorem
succeeding computations using calculated results
could be used simply as a check for the
would surely be incorrect.
computed values.

Required: a, b, and B Since the hypotenuse and angle A are Since ∆𝐴𝐵𝐶 is a right triangle, 𝐶 = 90°
given, we can use the sine function to and A and B are complementary. Hence
Solution:
find a.
𝐴 + 𝐵 = 90°
Since the hypotenuse and angle A are given, 𝑏 𝑏
we can use the sine function to find a. 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝐴 = → 𝑐𝑜𝑠36°50′ =
𝑐 92.7 𝐵 = 90° − 𝐴
𝑎 𝑎
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 = → 𝑠𝑖𝑛36°50′ = 𝑏 = 92.7𝑐𝑜𝑠36°50′ 𝐵 = 90° − 36°50′
𝑐 92.7

𝑎 = 92.7𝑠𝑖𝑛36°50′
𝑏 = 74.20 𝑐𝑚 𝐵 = 53°10′ 𝑜𝑟 53.167°

𝑎 = 55.57 𝑐𝑚
19
EXAMPLE 2. Required: a, c, and B 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 =
𝑎
𝑐
𝑏
; 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝐴 = ; 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐴 =
𝑐
𝑏
𝑎
𝑐 𝑐 𝑏
Solution: 𝑐𝑠𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑐𝑜𝑡𝐴 =
𝑎 𝑏 𝑎
𝐴 + 𝐵 = 90°
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 → 𝑐 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2
Find the unknown parts of 𝐵 = 90° − 𝐴 𝑎= 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑜𝑟 𝑏 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
right triangle ABC if 𝐴 =
27°10′ and 𝑏 = 12.3 𝑐𝑚. 𝐵 = 90° − 27°10′

𝐵 = 53°10′
Solving side c using the Pythagorean
𝑏 𝑎 Formula;
𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐴 = → 𝑡𝑎𝑛27°10′ =
𝑎 12.3
𝑐= 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2
𝑎 = 12.3𝑡𝑎𝑛27°10′
𝑐= 6.31 2 + 12.3 2
𝑎 = 6.31 𝑐𝑚
𝑐 = 13.82 𝑐𝑚 → 𝐶𝑜𝑟𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑡
𝑏 12.3
𝑐𝑜𝑠𝐴 = → 𝑐𝑜𝑠27°10′ =
𝑐 𝑐

12.3
𝑐=
𝑐𝑜𝑠27°10′

𝑐 = 13.82 𝑐𝑚

20
 UNIVERSITY OF THE CORDILLERAS COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE

MATH 122 BRIDGING MATHEMATICS

MODULE 3: TRIGONOMETRY

UNIT 3: SOLUTION OF OBLIQUE TRIANGLES

 UNIT LEARNING OUTCOMES
In this unit, here are the following desired learning outcomes:
✘ Introduce the different types of triangles.
✘ Use trigonometric functions and the Pythagorean Theorem to solve
right triangles.

22
 OBLIQUE TRIANGLES

In the previous unit we considered solutions of right

triangles. This time we are going to consider a more
general method of solving triangles specially oblique
triangles and their applications.

An oblique triangle is one that does not contain a

right angle; hence one that is not a right triangle.
Consider the oblique triangles to the right.

When at least one side and any two other parts of

the oblique triangle are given, the other parts of the
triangle can be found. There are four possible cases
of problems involving oblique triangles, namely:

23
 OBLIQUE TRIANGLES
CASE I: GIVEN ONE SIDE AND TWO CASE II: GIVEN TWO SIDES AND THE
ANGLES (ASA OR SAA) ANGLE OPPOSITE ONE OF THEM (SSA)

CASE I and CASE II can be solved using

the Law of Sines.
24
 LAW OF SINES
“The law of sine relates the measures of
the sides of a triangle and the sines of
the respective angles opposite those
sides.”

𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
= =
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶
Or

𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶

= =
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐

25
EXAMPLE 1. Solution:
𝑎
=
𝑏
=
𝑐
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶
Solving for b,
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶
= =
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
𝑎 𝑏 95 𝑏
S𝑜𝑙𝑣𝑒 ∆𝐴𝐵𝐶 if 𝐴 = 50°, B = = → =
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛50° 𝑠𝑖𝑛81°
81° and 𝑎 = 95.0 𝑐𝑚.
Solving for c,
95𝑠𝑖𝑛81° 𝑎 𝑐 95 𝑐
𝑏= = → =
𝑠𝑖𝑛50° 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶 𝑠𝑖𝑛50° 𝑠𝑖𝑛49°

𝑏 = 122.5 𝑐𝑚
95𝑠𝑖𝑛49°
𝑐=
𝑠𝑖𝑛50°
Solving for C,
𝑐 = 93.6 𝑐𝑚
Since 𝐴 + 𝐵 + 𝐶 = 180°

𝐶 = 180° − 𝐴 − 𝐵 → 180° − 50° − 81°

Required: b, c, and C

𝐶 = 49°
Case I
26
EXAMPLE 2. Solution:
𝑎
=
𝑏
=
𝑐
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶
Solving for C,
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶
= =
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶 𝑠𝑖𝑛125°30′
S𝑜𝑙𝑣𝑒 ∆𝐴𝐵𝐶 if, 𝑎 = 613 𝑐𝑚. = → =
𝑐 𝑎 472 613
𝑐 = 472 𝑐𝑚 and 𝐴 = 125°30′
472𝑠𝑖𝑛125°30′ Solving for c,
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶 =
613
𝑎 𝑏 613 𝑏
472𝑠𝑖𝑛125°30′ = → =
𝐶 = sin−1 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛125°30′ 𝑠𝑖𝑛15°41′
613

613𝑠𝑖𝑛15°41′
𝐶 = 38.819° 𝑜𝑟 38°49′ 𝑏=
𝑠𝑖𝑛125°30′

Solving for B,
Required: b, B, and C 𝑏 = 203.53 𝑐𝑚
Since 𝐴 + 𝐵 + 𝐶 = 180°

Case II
𝐵 = 180° − 𝐴 − 𝐶 → 180° − 125°30′ − 38°49′

𝐵 = 15°41′

27
 OBLIQUE TRIANGLES
CASE III: GIVEN TWO SIDES AND THE CASE IV: GIVEN THREE SIDES (SSS)
INCLUDED ANGLE (SAS)

CASE III and CASE IV can be solved using

the Law of Cosines.
28
 LAW OF COSINES
Note that we cannot use the law of sines to solve oblique triangles whose known parts are
either two sides and the included angle or three sides. Hence we need the law of cosines
which states that in any triangle ∆𝐴𝐵𝐶, the square of a side is equal to the sum of the
squares of the other two sides minus twice the product of those sides and the cosine of the
angle between them. In symbols, we have

−1
𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
𝑎2 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos 𝐴 → 𝑎 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos 𝐴 𝐴 = cos
2𝑏𝑐

−1
𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos 𝐵 → 𝑏 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos 𝐵 𝐵 = cos
2𝑎𝑐

−1
𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝐶 = cos
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos 𝐶 → 𝑐 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos 𝐶 2𝑎𝑏
29
EXAMPLE 3. Solution: 𝑎= 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos 𝐴

Solving for b,
𝑏= 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos 𝐵
𝑏= 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos 𝐵
𝑐= 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos 𝐶
S𝑜𝑙𝑣𝑒 ∆𝐴𝐵𝐶 if 𝑎 = 25.3 𝑐𝑚. 𝑏= 25.3 2 + 13.9 2 − 2 25.3 13.9 cos 51°
𝑐 = 13.9 𝑐𝑚 𝑎𝑛𝑑 B = 51° 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
𝑏 = 19.765 𝑐𝑚 𝐴 = cos −1
2𝑏𝑐

𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
Solving for A, 𝐵 = cos−1
2𝑎𝑐

𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝐴 = cos−1 𝐶 = cos−1
2𝑏𝑐 2𝑎𝑏

19.765 2 + 13.9 2 − 25.3 2

𝐴 = cos−1
2 19.765 13.9
𝐴 = 95.87° 𝑜𝑟 95°52′ !!Redraw Triangle!!

Solving for C,
Since 𝐴 + 𝐵 + 𝐶 = 180°
Required: b, A, and C
𝐶 = 180° − 𝐴 − 𝐵 → 180° − 95°52′ − 51°
𝐶 = 33°8′ 𝑜𝑟 33.133°
Case III
30
EXAMPLE 4. Solution: 𝑎= 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos 𝐴

Solving for A,
𝑏= 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos 𝐵
𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 92 + 62 − 142
𝐴 = cos−1 = cos −1
2𝑏𝑐 2(9)(6)
𝑐= 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos 𝐶
S𝑜𝑙𝑣𝑒 ∆𝐴𝐵𝐶 if 𝑎 = 14 𝑐𝑚.
𝑏 = 9 𝑐𝑚 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑐 = 6 𝑐𝑚 𝐴 = 137.01° 𝑜𝑟 137°0′ 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
𝐴 = cos −1
2𝑏𝑐

Solving for B, 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
𝐵 = cos−1
2𝑎𝑐
𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏2 142 + 62 − 92
𝐵 = cos−1 = cos−1
2𝑎𝑐 2(14)(6) 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝐶 = cos−1
2𝑎𝑏
𝐵 = 26°

Solving for A,
−1
𝑎2 + 𝑏2 − 𝑐 2 −1
142 + 92 − 62
𝐶 = cos = cos
2𝑎𝑏 2(14)(9)
Required: A, B, and C
𝐶 = 16.99° 𝑜𝑟 16°59′

Case IV
31
 UNIVERSITY OF THE CORDILLERAS COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE

MATH 122 BRIDGING MATHEMATICS

MODULE 3: TRIGONOMETRY
UNIT 4: APPLICATIONS OF RIGHT
TRIANGLES
 UNIT LEARNING OUTCOMES
In this unit, here are the following desired learning outcomes:
✘ Apply the principles developed in Solutions of Right triangles to
solve worded problems involving right triangles.

33
 APPLICATIONS OF RIGHT TRIANGLES
One of the interesting uses of trigonometry is its applications to problems involving
heights and distances which are difficult or sometimes impossible to measure
directly.

Solving right triangles is commonly used in cases where direct measurement could
hardly be done, say in finding inaccessible heights and unknown distances: For
example, we find the height of a tree without climbing it, the width of a river without
crossing it, the size of an island without setting foot on it or the length of a tunnel
without actually seeing it. Because of the facility of calculation via indirect
measurement, trigonometry has helped a lot in the development of other fields like
surveying, engineering, navigation and many others.

34
 APPLICATIONS OF RIGHT TRIANGLES

In the succeeding discussions, it is, therefore, advisable to adopt the following

procedure in solving problems involving triangles.

1. Draw a diagram to represent the problem situation.

2. Identify the triangle needed in the solution.
3. Indicate the known and unknown values in the figure. Use the appropriate
trigonometric function needed in the solution.

35
 APPLICATIONS OF RIGHT TRIANGLES

Moreover, it would help a lot to recall the following theorems about parallel lines:

1. Parallel lines are everywhere equidistant

2. If two parallel lines are cut by a transversal, then
a) alternate interior angles are congruent.
b) corresponding angles are congruent.
c) alternate exterior angles are congruent.
d) interior angles on the same side of the transversal are supplementary.

Many problems involving right triangles use the concept of angle of elevation and
angle of depression. The following definitions are, therefore, necessary in order to
solve practical problems involving these angles.
36
 ANGLE OF ELEVATION

The angle of elevation is the angle

made with the horizontal by the line
of sight from an observer to an object
on a higher level than the observer.

37
 ANGLE OF DEPRESSION

The angle of depression is the angle

made with the horizontal by the line
of sight from an observer to an object
on a lower level than the observer.

38
EXAMPLE 1. 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 =
𝑎
𝑐
𝑏
; 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝐴 = ; 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐴 =
𝑐
𝑎
𝑏
Required: a 𝑐 𝑐
𝑐𝑠𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑐𝑜𝑡𝐴 =
𝑏
𝑎 𝑏 𝑎
Solution:
From a point 49.5 𝑚 from the 𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 → 𝑐 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2
base of flagpole, the angle of 𝑎= 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑜𝑟 𝑏 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
elevation to the top is 43°12′. To find a, we use the tangent function.
Find the height of the Hence,
flagpole.
𝑎
𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐴 =
𝑏

Substituting the known values, we have

𝑎
𝑡𝑎𝑛43°12′ =
49.5 𝑚

𝑚
𝑎 = 49.5𝑡𝑎𝑛43°12′

𝑎 = 46.5 𝑚
Therefore, the flagpole is 46.5 m high
39
EXAMPLE 2. 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 =
𝑎
𝑐
𝑏
; 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝐴 = ; 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐴 =
𝑐
𝑎
𝑏
Solution: 𝑐 𝑐 𝑏
𝑐𝑠𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑐𝑜𝑡𝐴 =
𝑎 𝑏 𝑎
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 → 𝑐 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2
From the top of Mt. Banahaw 135 𝑚. Let 𝑎= 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑜𝑟 𝑏 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
high, it is observed that the angle of d = distance of the ship to the
depression of a ship is 21°. How far is top of the mountain
the ship from the top of the mountain?
x = distance of the ship from the
How far is the ship from the foot of the
mountain? foot of the mountain

For d For x

135 135 135 135

𝑠𝑖𝑛21° = →𝑑= 𝑡𝑎𝑛21° = →𝑥=
𝑑 𝑠𝑖𝑛21° 𝑥 𝑡𝑎𝑛21°

𝑥
𝑑 = 376.708 𝑚 𝑥 = 351.687 𝑚

40
EXAMPLE 3. Solution: 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 =
𝑎
𝑐
𝑏
; 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝐴 = ; 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐴 =
𝑐
𝑎
𝑏
𝑐 𝑐 𝑏
Let 𝑐𝑠𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑐𝑜𝑡𝐴 =
𝑎 𝑏 𝑎
y = the horizontal distance between
A man, standing 9 m. above the ground, 𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 → 𝑐 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2
observes the angles of elevation and the man and the monument. 𝑎= 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑜𝑟 𝑏 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2

depression of the top and bottom of the x = vertical distance from the man’s
Rizal Monument in Luneta as 6°50′ and line horizontal line of sight to the top
7°30′, respectively. Find the height of the 𝑥 = (68.362)𝑡𝑎𝑛6°50′
monument of the monument.
h = height of the monument, where:
ℎ=𝑥+9 𝑥 = 8.192 𝑚

𝑥 For x
Therefore:
𝑥
𝑦 𝑡𝑎𝑛6°50′ = → 𝑥 = 𝑦𝑡𝑎𝑛6°50′
𝑦
For y ℎ = 8.192 + 9

9 9
𝑡𝑎𝑛7°30′ = →𝑦= ℎ = 17.192 𝑚
𝑦 𝑡𝑎𝑛7°30′

𝑦 = 68.362 𝑚

41
EXAMPLE 4. Notice that we have two right triangles, ∆𝐷𝐶𝐵 and 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 =
𝑎
𝑐
𝑏
; 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝐴 = ; 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐴 =
𝑐
𝑎
𝑏
𝑐 𝑐 𝑏
∆𝐴𝐶𝐵. The figure shows two unknowns, namely: 𝑥 , the 𝑐𝑠𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑐𝑜𝑡𝐴 =
𝑎 𝑏 𝑎
From a point 𝐴, the angle of distance from 𝐴 to 𝐶 and ℎthe height of the tree.
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 → 𝑐 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2
elevation to the top of a tree is However, we are only interested in the height of the 𝑎= 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑜𝑟 𝑏 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
46°10′ while from a point 𝐷, tree. Inasmuch as no information is given about the
50.0 𝑚 farther from 𝐴 on the length of the hypotenuse of either triangle, we use a
same level, the angle of
trigonometric function that does not involve the
elevation to the top of the tree
is 27°45′. How high is the tree? hypotenuse. Hence we use the tangent function.

Required: h
Solution:

In ∆𝐴𝐶𝐵

ℎ
𝑡𝑎𝑛46°10′ = → ℎ = 𝑥𝑡𝑎𝑛46°10′
𝑥

In ∆𝐷𝐶𝐵

ℎ
𝑡𝑎𝑛27°45′ = → ℎ = (𝑥 + 50)𝑡𝑎𝑛27°45′
𝑥 + 50
42
EXAMPLE 4. 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 =
𝑎
𝑐
𝑏
; 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝐴 = ; 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐴 =
𝑐
𝑎
𝑏
Equating the two expressions which are 𝑐 𝑐 𝑏
𝑐𝑠𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝐴 = ; 𝑐𝑜𝑡𝐴 =
𝑎 𝑏 𝑎
equal to h, we have
From a point 𝐴, the angle of 𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 → 𝑐 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2
elevation to the top of a tree is 𝑎= 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑜𝑟 𝑏 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
46°10′ while from a point 𝐷, ′
𝑥𝑡𝑎𝑛46°10 = (𝑥 + 50)𝑡𝑎𝑛27°45 ′

50.0 𝑚 farther from 𝐴 on the

same level, the angle of Substituting the value of x in either
Solving for x, we get
elevation to the top of the tree
equation of h, we obtain
is 27°45′. How high is the tree?
𝑥𝑡𝑎𝑛46°10′ = 𝑥𝑡𝑎𝑛27°45′ + 50𝑡𝑎𝑛27°45′
ℎ = 𝑥𝑡𝑎𝑛46°10′

𝑥𝑡𝑎𝑛46°10′ − 𝑥𝑡𝑎𝑛27°45′ = 50𝑡𝑎𝑛27°45′

ℎ = 53.2 𝑚 → 𝑇ℎ𝑒 ℎ𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑒

50𝑡𝑎𝑛27°45′
𝑥=
𝑡𝑎𝑛46°10′ − 𝑡𝑎𝑛27°45′

𝑥 = 51.035 𝑚

43
 UNIVERSITY OF THE CORDILLERAS COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE

MATH 122 BRIDGING MATHEMATICS

MODULE 3: TRIGONOMETRY
UNIT 5: APPLICATIONS OF OBLIQUE
TRIANGLES
 UNIT LEARNING OUTCOMES
In this unit, here are the following desired learning outcomes:
✘ Apply the principles developed in Solutions of Oblique triangles to
solve worded problems involving oblique triangles.

45
 APPLICATIONS OF OBLIQUE TRIANGLES
One of the interesting uses of trigonometry is its applications to problems involving
heights and distances which are difficult or sometimes impossible to measure
directly.

Solving right triangles is commonly used in cases where direct measurement could
hardly be done, say in finding inaccessible heights and unknown distances: For
example, we find the height of a tree without climbing it, the width of a river without
crossing it, the size of an island without setting foot on it or the length of a tunnel
without actually seeing it. Because of the facility of calculation via indirect
measurement, trigonometry has helped a lot in the development of other fields like
surveying, engineering, navigation and many others.

46
 APPLICATIONS OF OBLIQUE TRIANGLES

In the succeeding discussions, it is, therefore, advisable to adopt the following

procedure in solving problems involving triangles.

1. Draw a diagram to represent the problem situation.

2. Identify the triangle needed in the solution.
3. Indicate the known and unknown values in the figure. Use the appropriate
trigonometric function needed in the solution.

47
 APPLICATIONS OF OBLIQUE TRIANGLES

Moreover, it would help a lot to recall the following theorems about parallel lines:

1. Parallel lines are everywhere equidistant

2. If two parallel lines are cut by a transversal, then
a) alternate interior angles are congruent.
b) corresponding angles are congruent.
c) alternate exterior angles are congruent.
d) interior angles on the same side of the transversal are supplementary.

Many problems involving right triangles use the concept of angle of elevation and
angle of depression. The following definitions are, therefore, necessary in order to
solve practical problems involving these angles.
48
 Required: 𝑐
EXAMPLE 1. Solution: (Case II)
𝑎
=
𝑏
=
𝑐
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶

𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶

Using Sine Law: 𝑎
=
𝑏
=
𝑐
A vertical pole 12 𝑓𝑡 high, standing on sloping
ground, is braced by a wire which extends 𝑐 𝑎 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶(12) 𝑎= 𝑏2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos 𝐴

from the top of the pole to a point on the = →𝑐=

𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛30° 𝑏= 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos 𝐵
ground 20 𝑓𝑡 from the foot of the pole. If the
pole subtends an angle of 30° at the point
𝑐= 𝑎2 + 𝑏2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos 𝐶
where the wire reaches the ground, how long 𝐶 = 180° − 𝐴 − 𝐵 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
is the wire? 𝐴 = cos −1
2𝑏𝑐

𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
𝐵 = cos −1
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑏𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 2𝑎𝑐
= → 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 =
𝑏 𝑎 𝑎
𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝐶 = cos −1
2𝑎𝑏

(20)𝑠𝑖𝑛30° Therefore:
𝐵 = sin−1
7 12
(𝑠𝑖𝑛93°33′ )(12)
𝑐=
𝐵 𝐵 = 56.443° 𝑜𝑟 56°27°
𝑠𝑖𝑛30°

12
𝑐 = 23.954 𝑓𝑡
𝐶 = 180° − 30° − 56°27°
30° 𝐶
𝐴
𝐶 = 93°33′
 Required: 𝑐
EXAMPLE 1. Solution:
𝑎
=
𝑏
=
𝑐
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶

𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶

Using Cosine Law: 𝑎
=
𝑏
=
𝑐
A vertical pole 12 𝑓𝑡 high, standing on sloping
ground, is braced by a wire which extends 𝑐= 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos 𝐶 𝑎= 𝑏2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos 𝐴

from the top of the pole to a point on the

𝑏= 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos 𝐵
ground 20 𝑓𝑡 from the foot of the pole. If the
pole subtends an angle of 30° at the point 𝐶 = 180° − 𝐴 − 𝐵 𝑐= 𝑎2 + 𝑏2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos 𝐶
where the wire reaches the ground, how long
𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
is the wire? 𝐴 = cos −1
2𝑏𝑐

𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑏𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2

= → 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 = 𝐵 = cos −1
𝑏 𝑎 𝑎 2𝑎𝑐

𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝐶 = cos −1
2𝑎𝑏

(20)𝑠𝑖𝑛30°
𝐵 = sin−1
12
7 Therefore:
𝑐= (12)2 +(20)2 −2(12)(20) cos 93°33′
𝐵 = 56.443° 𝑜𝑟 56°27°
𝐵
12 𝑐 = 23.954 𝑓𝑡
𝐶 = 180° − 30° − 56°27°

30° 𝐶
𝐴 𝐶 = 93°33′
EXAMPLE 2. 𝑎
=
𝑏
=
𝑐
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶

𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶

= =
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
A ladder, 20 ft long is set with one
end at a horizontal distance of 7 ft. 𝑎= 𝑏2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos 𝐴

from a sloping wall. The other end of Required: ∠𝐵

𝑏= 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos 𝐵
the ladder reaches 15 ft. up the face
Solution: Case IV
of the wall. What angle does the wall
𝑐= 𝑎2 + 𝑏2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos 𝐶
makes with the ladder? 2 2 2
𝑎 +𝑐 −𝑏 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
𝐵 = cos−1 𝐴 = cos −1
2𝑏𝑐
2𝑎𝑐
𝐵 𝐵 = cos −1
𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
2𝑎𝑐

−1
152 + 202 − 72 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝐵 = cos 𝐶 = cos −1
2𝑎𝑏
2(15)(20)

7 𝐴 𝐶 𝐵 = 16.260° 𝑜𝑟 16°16′
7

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 𝐵
EXAMPLE 3. From ∆𝐴𝐶𝐵
𝑎
=
𝑏
=
𝑐
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶

30° 10
𝑎 𝑏 𝑎𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐶
= =
A flagpole 10 𝑓𝑡. tall stands on top of = →𝑏= 𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐴
a building. From a point in the same 𝑎= 𝑏2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos 𝐴

horizontal plane with the base of the 𝐶

𝑏= 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos 𝐵
building, the angles of elevation of But b=d
the top and the bottom of the flagpole
10° 𝐶
𝑐= 𝑎2 + 𝑏2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos 𝐶
are 60° and 50° respectively. How 10𝑠𝑖𝑛30°
high is the building?
𝐴 ℎ 𝑑= 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
𝑠𝑖𝑛10° 𝐴 = cos −1
2𝑏𝑐

50°
𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
𝐴 𝐷 𝑑 = 28.794 𝑓𝑡
𝐵 = cos −1
2𝑎𝑐

Required: ℎ 𝐶 = cos −1
𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
2𝑎𝑏

Therefore:
Solution:
ℎ From ∆𝐴𝐷𝐶 ℎ = 28.794 𝑠𝑖𝑛50°

ℎ ℎ = 22.057 𝑓𝑡
𝑠𝑖𝑛50° = → ℎ = 𝑑𝑠𝑖𝑛50°
𝑑

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 thanks!
Any questions?

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