Roller coaster triangulation problem

[drobtj2]

Homework Statement

Derive a formula to calculate the height of the top of a hill on a roller coaster using triangulation. Final answer should be in terms of d, angle 1, and angle 2. There are two points on the ground. Angle 1 is the angle formed between the ground and a line that goes from the point closer to the hill to the top of the hill. Angle 2 is the angle formed between the ground and a line that goes from the point further away to the top. d is the distance between the two points.

Homework Equations

(trigonomotry)

The Attempt at a Solution

 

[robertm]

Just because you post the same question in two different forums doesn't mean anyone will help without at lest some effort on your part.

You are being asked to derive Height h using angles 1 and 2, and Dis. d. So how do you proceed?

What are the relationships between a right triangles side lengths and its angles? Try and discover the fundamental relationships of triangles and then derive a formula. Or simply read a little of your textbook/internet and find some applicable formula then test them with some arbitrary values.

Try anything really, and once you have then EXPLAIN fully your difficulties and what you do and do not understand. Heres a picture to help with the visualization: