What is the length of a shadow at 8am?

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To determine the length of a shadow at 8 A.M., one must consider the sun's position in the sky, which changes due to Earth's rotation. At 8 A.M., the sun is two hours past sunrise, meaning it has moved approximately 30 degrees from the horizon, as it covers 180 degrees over 12 hours. The angle of the sun directly influences the length of the shadow cast by objects, such as a 150m building. Understanding the relationship between the sun's angle and the shadow's length is crucial for solving the problem. This approach helps visualize the scenario and apply trigonometric principles effectively.
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Hi there!

I need help with trig. I know how to find angles or sides etc. but the problem is I can't picture what this word problem trying to ask me. It would be great if you show me the picture, and I would most likely know how to figure out the sides.

Q1:
On a sunny day, the shadows of stationary objects move slowly across the ground. This is caused by the apparent motion of the sun across the sky, due to the rotation of the Earth. Assume that the sun rises due east at 6a.m, and sets due west at 6p.m.

Find the length of the shadow of a 150m building at:
a) 8A.M

Thanks,
 
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Look at it in terms of angles and fractions. The sun has 180 degrees to cover over a period of 12 hours. 8am is 2 hours after sunrise. The angle of the sun is related to the angel of the shadow.

Does that help you any?
 
Last edited:
kts123 said:
Look at it in terms of angles and fractions. The sun has 180 degrees to cover over a period of 12 hours. 8am is 2 hours after sunrise. The angle of the sun is related to the angel of the shadow.

Does that help you any?

yes it does, thank you! :D
 
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