SUMMARY
The problem involves calculating the horizontal distance from a press box 38 feet above the ground to second base, using a 15-degree angle of depression. The correct approach utilizes the tangent function, where the opposite side is 38 feet and the angle is 15 degrees. The horizontal distance is calculated as 38 feet divided by the tangent of 15 degrees, resulting in an accurate distance of 142 feet. The initial miscalculation arose from attempting to use the sine function instead of the tangent function.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of basic trigonometric functions: sine, cosine, and tangent.
- Ability to interpret angles of depression in right triangles.
- Familiarity with the concept of opposite and adjacent sides in trigonometry.
- Basic skills in solving equations involving trigonometric ratios.
NEXT STEPS
- Study the tangent function and its applications in right triangle problems.
- Learn how to draw and interpret diagrams for trigonometric problems.
- Explore real-world applications of trigonometry in fields such as physics and engineering.
- Practice solving similar problems involving angles of elevation and depression.
USEFUL FOR
Students studying trigonometry, educators teaching math concepts, and anyone needing to apply trigonometric functions to solve real-world problems.