How Can You Solve a Triangle Using the Law of Sines Without a Calculator?

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves Triangle ABC where the tangent values of angles A and B are given, along with the length of side a. The objective is to find the length of side b using the Law of Sines without a calculator.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between tangent and sine, with one suggesting a geometric approach using a right triangle to derive sine values from tangent ratios. Questions are raised about the measures of angles based on the tangent values provided.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring the relationships between the angles and sides of the triangle, with some providing insights on how to derive sine values from tangent values. There is an ongoing dialogue about the methods to approach the problem without a calculator, but no consensus has been reached on a specific method yet.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions a requirement to solve the problem without a calculator, which influences the discussion and the approaches being considered.

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Homework Statement


In Triangle ABC, tan A=3/4, tan B=1, and a=10. Find what b equals.


Homework Equations


You can use sina/A=sinb/B


The Attempt at a Solution


This problem is really easy using inv tangent functions and what not, but my teacher said we should be able to get it without a calculator.
Doing it with a calculator b will turn out to be 11.8. But if anyone is able to provide a detailed way to get the problem without using a calculator, that would be great.

Thanks
 
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If tanB = 1, what's the measure of angle B? That's an easy one, and one that you should know. Also, if tanA = 3/4, it's pretty easy to get sinA.
 
well the tanB=1 is equal to 45 degrees, but how can you get sinA from tanA?
 
If tanB = 1, then B is 45 degrees - that's what you meant, right?

You have tanA = 3/4. Draw a right triangle and label the side opposite to A as 3 and the side adjacent to A as 4. What does the hypotenuse have to be? From that, what's sinA?
 

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