Finding the Width of a River Using Vector Properties

[innightmare]

Homework Statement

A surveyor measures the distance across a straight river by the following method:starting directly across from a tree on the opposite bank, she walks 100m along the riverbank to establish a baseline. Then she sights across a tree. The angle from her baseline to the tree is 35.0(degree). How wide is the river?

Homework Equations

I think this is a resultant vector problem. Where R(x)=A(x)+B(x), R(y)=A(y)+B(y). Then, Ill take the magnitude of both (R(x)+R(y))^1/2

The Attempt at a Solution

What I stated above is what I thought a solution, but I am stuck at the word "wide"? Not sure if I am on the right direction.
Thanks

 

[lylos]

Sometimes drawing a picture helps out. Take a look at this one I sketched for you.

http://picasaweb.google.com/barry.farmer/Hw/photo?authkey=byWKUltIRn8#5110762258918870706

 

[Doc Al]

I think this is a resultant vector problem.

This is geometry/trig problem, not a vector problem. Draw yourself a diagram and you'll find a right triangle.

Looks like lylos drew one for you!

 

[innightmare]

This is geometry/trig problem, not a vector problem. Draw yourself a diagram and you'll find a right triangle.

Looks like lylos drew one for you!

So how can i even go about solving this problem, if its a right triangle formula? This homework question was in the vector chapter of the book

 

[Doc Al]

To solve many vector problems, you need to know about right triangles. This should be an easier problem than many vector ones.