Trigonometry Word Problem involving Inverse trigonometric functions

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves a ship's distance from a dock and the angle of depression from the dock to the ship, requiring the expression of this angle as a function of the horizontal distance. The subject area is trigonometry, specifically focusing on inverse trigonometric functions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster seeks validation of their graphical representation and interpretation of the problem. Some participants question the understanding of trigonometric definitions, while others affirm the correctness of the drawing.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to clarify the problem and validate interpretations. Some participants express confidence in the original poster's understanding, while others emphasize the need for foundational knowledge of trigonometric functions.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions potential language barriers affecting their understanding of the problem's phrasing.

acen_gr
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Homework Statement


A ship is d feet from a dock (horizontal distance). The dock is 40 feet above sea level. The angle of depression from the dock to the ship is θ. Write θ as a function of d.

Homework Equations


This question is accompanied with choices. The choices are
(A) θ = 40arctan(d)
(B) θ = arctan(\frac{40}{d})
(C) θ = arcsin(\frac{d}{60})
(D) θ = \frac{arctan(d)}{40}
(E) none of these

The Attempt at a Solution


First, I would like to know if my graphical representation of this problem is correct.
s30opz.png

Thank you!
 
Last edited:
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Do you know the definitions of "sine", "tangent", etc.? If not, look them up. Once you know them you will see that this problem is trivial.
 
It is a very nice (and correct) drawing, with a very big ship.:smile:

ehild
 
HallsofIvy said:
Do you know the definitions of "sine", "tangent", etc.? If not, look them up. Once you know them you will see that this problem is trivial.
ehild said:
It is a very nice (and correct) drawing, with a very big ship.:smile:

ehild

Ok sir so if my interpretation of the problem is right, then it would be right if I answer choice B right? Thank you! :smile:
 
acen_gr said:
Ok sir so if my interpretation of the problem is right, then it would be right if I answer choice B right? Thank you! :smile:

YES!

ehild
 
ehild said:
YES!

ehild

Yes! I made it right. I just wonder if my understanding was right because I'm not from an English-based country so some phrasing are not clear to me. Thank you everyone! :biggrin:
 

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