What Is the Correct Way to Calculate Theta in Trigonometry?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of the angle theta in trigonometry, specifically focusing on the tangent function and its application in a triangle. Participants are exploring the correct method to derive theta from given side lengths.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether to use the tangent function or direct division of the sides to calculate theta, presenting two different numerical results.
  • Another participant asks for clarification on the definition of tangent.
  • Some participants assert that the tangent of theta is the ratio of the opposite side to the adjacent side, specifically stating that 6/6.7 equals approximately 0.89.
  • There is a correction regarding the use of the arctangent function to find theta, with one participant acknowledging a mistake in their calculation process.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the calculation method, with some confusion about the use of tangent versus direct division, and whether to apply the arctangent function. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing interpretations of the correct approach.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the clarity of definitions and the steps involved in the calculations, as well as potential misunderstandings regarding the application of trigonometric functions.

r-soy
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Hi all


question on triangometry .


1.JPG


I know solve this quetion put are we saying :

tan = 6/6.7 = 0.8955

or tan =6/6.7 =0.0156

I don't n did we take tan or direct divide 6/6.7 = 0.8955

I want your help please .
 
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TRIANGOMETRY?

What is tangent definition?

--
 
thanks >> I understand now
 
[URL]http://www.bpp.com.pl/IMG/faint.gif[/URL]
 
Last edited by a moderator:
you divide the opposite side/adjacent side to the angle θ, which is 6/6.7= 0.89.

Then you take the tangent of this number, tan(0.89) = .0156 as your final answer
 
Borek said:
[PLAIN]http://www.bpp.com.pl/IMG/faint.gif[/QUOTE]

hey ... where did you get it from?

EDIT: understood...
 
Last edited by a moderator:
k-rod AP 2010 said:
you divide the opposite side/adjacent side to the angle θ, which is 6/6.7= 0.89.

Then you take the tangent of this number, tan(0.89) = .0156 as your final answer

No, the opposite side divided by the adjacent side already is the tangent of theta
 
Theaumasch said:
No, the opposite side divided by the adjacent side already is the tangent of theta

ohh ur right, i meant to say you would take the arctangent to find out the theta. i forgot to hit arctangent on my calculator and just put the number w/o paying attention. my bad, :-p
 

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