Can anyone see a better way of solving this?

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The discussion revolves around finding a simpler method to solve a problem that initially required simultaneous equations, yielding a correct answer of 2933.5m. Participants suggest exploring the law of sines as an alternative approach, although concerns about it still involving simultaneous equations arise. The conversation highlights a misunderstanding about the necessity of simultaneous equations, with one participant expressing frustration over perceived overthinking. Ultimately, clarification about the law of sines leads to a realization of its applicability in the problem. The thread concludes with a participant acknowledging their earlier confusion.
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Homework Statement



attachment.php?attachmentid=57710&stc=1&d=1365594222.jpg



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I just derive two equations and solve simultaneously. It delivers the correct answer of 2933.5m. But it is a bit of a long method, can anyone see an easier way?
 

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Without seeing your work we can not tell if it can be done simpler.ehild
 
Sorry, what I mean is; is there any non-simultaneous way to solve this?
 
There is nothing wrong with your method. You might consider the law of sines for an alternative.
 
voko said:
There is nothing wrong with your method. You might consider the law of sines for an alternative.

Ok, cool. But that would still involve a simultaneous equation.
 
memoguy said:
Ok, cool. But that would still involve a simultaneous equation.

Why is it a problem? It is simple to solve. Show what you did.

Introduce the variable y/x. Or divide the equations with each other.

ehild
 
memoguy said:
Ok, cool. But that would still involve a simultaneous equation.

I do not think so.
 
ehild said:
Why is it a problem? It is simple to solve. Show what you did.

Introduce the variable y/x

ehild
No problem at all. Just that someone I was talking to kept saying that I was over thinking it by solving simultaneous but I just can't see how to get around that.

voko said:
I do not think so.

Ohh! How?
 
memoguy said:
Ohh! How?

What does the law of sines say?
 
  • #10
voko said:
What does the law of sines say?

sin(A)/a=sin(B)/b=...
 
  • #11
In your problem you have three points: the point of the first sighing, the second sighting, and the light itself. Let's call them A, B, C.

Can you find the length of AC or BC?
 
  • #12
no?

-memoguy
 
  • #13
no what?
 
  • #14
I am an idiot. I am so sorry, I see it now!
 

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