The discussion revolves around a trigonometric equation involving sine, specifically the relationship Sin(0) = Ry/Rx. Participants are trying to clarify the problem context and the correct interpretation of the variables involved.
There is an ongoing exploration of the problem, with some participants providing guidance on how to manipulate the equation based on their interpretations. The clarification that the original equation likely contains θ instead of 0 has been acknowledged, which may help direct the discussion towards a more accurate understanding of the problem.
Participants note the potential confusion stemming from the original equation and the importance of correctly identifying the variable represented by 0. There is an indication that the teacher has confirmed this correction.
HallsofIvy said:I can make absolutely no sense out of "solve for 0"! That would be like saying "solve for 2".
I strongly suspect that was supposed to be [itex]sin(\theta)= R_y/R_x[/itex] and your teacher (or you!) missed the horizontal line on the [itex]\theta[/itex].
To "solve for y", multiply both sides by [itex]R_x[/itex]. To "solve for x" one method is to first invert both sides, getting [itex]1/sin(\theta)= R_x/R_y[/itex] and then multiply both sides by [itex]R_y[/itex]. To "solve for [itex]\theta[/itex]" take the inverse sin (arcos or [itex]sin^{-1}[/itex]) of both sides.