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# help algebra

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A utility pole is 38 ft tall. The pole creates a 53 ft shadow. What is the angle of elevation of the sun? Round your answer to the nearest degree. Show your work.

Dec 14, 2018

#1
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ok so I first tried solving for the bottom angle and I used the formula tanx=b/a

which means tanx= 7.2/14.6

that gave me x=.45

so I subtracted 45 and 90(because its right triangle) from 180 and I got 45. So maybe x=45 degrees but Im not to sure.

Dec 14, 2018
#2
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1.) A calculator is useful in this question

tan xº = $${ {opposite} \over adjacent}{}{}$$

xº = tan-1($${ {14.6} \over 7.2}{}{}$$)

xº = 63.7

2.) Use the same process as question one with a calculator

Dec 14, 2018
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Thanks, Echofire     !!!

CPhill  Dec 14, 2018
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thank you but i dont know how to properly use the calculator i think i keep messing up the order cause i cant mimick the correct answers

Johnnyboy  Dec 14, 2018
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We know the opposite side to the angle  and the adjacent side

Make SURE that your calculator is set to DEGREE mode  [ that may be your problem ]

So....the trig function that relates   opp/ adj  is the tangent

So

tan x = ( 38/ 53)      take the tangent inverse to find the angle

tan-1 ( 38/63) = x  ≈  35.64°

CPhill  Dec 14, 2018