Kite Distance Above the Ground

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In summary, Kaila is trying to figure out how far her kite is above the ground. Using the sine function, she calculates that the kite is 27 meters above the ground when the string makes a 70° angle. However, there is a discrepancy in the numerical evaluation between Kaila and the person she is talking to. After checking their calculators, they realize that Kaila's phone is in degree mode by default and the other person's calculator was not. Once this is sorted out, they are able to move on and continue their conversation.
  • #1
xyz_1965
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Kaila is flying a kite whose string is making a 70° angle with the ground. The kite string is 65 meters long. How far is the kite above the ground?

I am thinking the sine function.

sin (70°) = h/65, where h is the distance of the kite above the ground.

sin (70°)(65) = h

27.08617 = h

I will say the kite is 27 meters above the ground.
 
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  • #2
Do you have your calculator in degree mode?
 
  • #3
MarkFL said:
Do you have your calculator in degree mode?

Yes, my calculator is in degree mode. Should it be in radians mode?
 
  • #4
Try evaluating the expression again...
 
  • #5
MarkFL said:
Try evaluating the expression again...

sin (70°)(65) = 50.3028943013 in radians mode.

I say the answer is 50 meters.
 
  • #6
I'm getting a different number.
 
  • #7
MarkFL said:
I'm getting a different number.

What number are you getting? Show me your set up.
 
  • #8
xyz_1965 said:
What number are you getting? Show me your set up.

Your expression is correct, but your numeric evaluation of that expression differs from mine.
 
  • #9
MarkFL said:
Your expression is correct, but your numeric evaluation of that expression differs from mine.

Show me what you did.
 
  • #10
xyz_1965 said:
Show me what you did.

I used my phone's calculator.
 
  • #11
65sin(70).png
 
  • #12
skeeter said:
https://www.physicsforums.com/attachments/10524

That looks like what I got.
 
  • #13
xyz_1965 said:
sin (70°)(65) = 50.3028943013 in radians mode.

I say the answer is 50 meters.

your argument for sine is 70 degrees ... you need to be in degree mode.
 
  • #14
skeeter said:
your argument for sine is 70 degrees ... you need to be in degree mode.

Understood.
 
  • #15
MarkFL said:
That looks like what I got.

I must be in degree mode. I got it.
 
  • #16
MarkFL said:
I used my phone's calculator.

Your phone in degree mode, right?
 
  • #17
xyz_1965 said:
Your phone in degree mode, right?

It appears to be by default.
 
  • #18
MarkFL said:
It appears to be by default.

Moving on.
 
  • #19
Ha! Ha!
 

FAQ: Kite Distance Above the Ground

What is "Kite Distance Above the Ground"?

"Kite Distance Above the Ground" refers to the vertical distance between a kite and the ground below it. It is often measured in meters or feet.

How is the "Kite Distance Above the Ground" measured?

The "Kite Distance Above the Ground" is typically measured using a measuring tape or a laser rangefinder. The kite string is held taut and the distance from the ground to the string is measured.

Why is the "Kite Distance Above the Ground" important in kite flying?

The "Kite Distance Above the Ground" is important in kite flying because it affects the stability and performance of the kite. A higher distance above the ground can result in stronger winds and better lift for the kite.

What factors can affect the "Kite Distance Above the Ground"?

The "Kite Distance Above the Ground" can be affected by wind conditions, the length and weight of the kite string, and the weight of the kite itself. Other factors such as the shape and design of the kite can also play a role.

Is there an ideal "Kite Distance Above the Ground" for kite flying?

There is no one ideal "Kite Distance Above the Ground" for all kites. It may vary depending on the type of kite, wind conditions, and personal preference. It is important to experiment and adjust the distance to find what works best for your specific kite.

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