Spherical Pythagorean theorem - finding length of longer side

[Plutoniummatt]

Picture of the problem:

As seen by the diagram above, a2 < a1

But the spherical Pythagorean theorem states that cos c = (cos a)(cos b).

The triangle can either have a1,b,c or a2,b,c as its sides, which means the above equation contradicts itself. Am I missing something?

thanks.

 

[tiny-tim]

Hi Plutoniummatt!

But the spherical Pythagorean theorem states that cos c = (cos a)(cos b).

he he

a₁ isn't part of a great circle ​

 

[Plutoniummatt]

hehe thanks, this is what happens when I look up a formula and not bother to read the text that goes with it :P but I assume you meant a2

 

[tiny-tim]

oops!