An observer (O) is located 660 feet from a tree (T). The observer notices a hawk (H) flying at a 35° angle of elevation from his line of sight. What equation and trigonometric function can be used to solve for the height (h) of the hawk? What is the height of the hawk? Pick another trigonometric function and describe why that function is not appropriate when trying to solve for (h). You must show all work and calculations to receive full credit.

Question

Gerald Bishop

Mathematics

3 October, 16:59

An observer (O) is located 660 feet from a tree (T). The observer notices a hawk (H) flying at a 35° angle of elevation from his line of sight. What equation and trigonometric function can be used to solve for the height (h) of the hawk? What is the height of the hawk? Pick another trigonometric function and describe why that function is not appropriate when trying to solve for (h). You must show all work and calculations to receive full credit.

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Answers (1)

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Paul Gilbert · Answer 1

So we have

the angle is 35 °

the adjacent side is 660

height or elivation or oposite side is h

what trig equation relates oposite and adjacent?

tan

tanx=o/a

tan35 °=h/660

times 660 both sides

660tan35 °=h

evaluate

462.137ft aprox

do not use sin or cos because they relate hypotnuse which is the distance to the hawk, not the height of the hawk