Easy Question, but giving me trouble

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a scenario in a baseball park where a reporter in a press box observes second base from a height of 38 feet, looking at an angle of 15 degrees below the horizontal. The objective is to determine the distance from the press box to second base.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the initial approach of using the sine function and question the accuracy of the calculation. There is a suggestion to draw a diagram to better visualize the problem. The distinction between slope distance and horizontal distance is also explored, with a focus on identifying the correct trigonometric function to use.

Discussion Status

The discussion has evolved with participants clarifying the type of distance being sought and identifying the appropriate trigonometric relationships. There is acknowledgment of the initial misunderstanding regarding the calculation method, leading to a more accurate interpretation of the problem.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of visual aids, such as diagrams, in solving the problem and highlight the need to differentiate between horizontal and slope distances in trigonometric applications.

Dave25
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Homework Statement



The press box at a baseball park is 38 feet above the ground. A reporter in the press box looks at an angle of 15 degrees below the horizontal to see second base. What is the distance form the press box to second base?

Homework Equations



sin = opp / hyp

The Attempt at a Solution



I am trying 38ft / sin15 and I am getting 146 ft. I know the answer is 142 ft. Or atleast that is what my book tells me the answer should be. What am I doing wrong?
 
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Dave25 said:
What am I doing wrong?
Not drawing a diagram before reaching for the calculator ?
 
Ha! Ok, you got me there. So, I just wrote down the diagram and I still can't figure it out. So what do I need to do to solve this problem.
 
So you have a triangle
The angle between the horizontal and the hypotonuse is 15deg
The vertical side opposite is 38" high

Is the question asking for the horizontal distance - rather than the slope distance?
Which trig function links opposite/adjacent
 
Yeah, it's asking for horizontal distance and I was trying to find slope distance. Tangent is opp / adj and... my answer is 142 ft. Thanks a lot. I guess they don't give you the 2008 PF Award for nothing huh? Thanks again.
 

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