Question

Solve the right angle trig problem. round to the nearest tenth.

Answer 1

x ≈ 16.5

General Formulas and Concepts:

Pre-Algebra

Order of Operations: BPEMDAS

1. Brackets
2. Parenthesis
3. Exponents
4. Multiplication
5. Division
6. Addition
7. Subtraction

• Left to Right

Geometry

• [Right Triangles Only] SOHCAHTOA
• [Right Triangles Only] cos∅ = adjacent over hypotenuse

Explanation:

Step 1: Define

We are given a right triangle. We can use trig to find the missing side length.

Step 2: Identify Variables

POV from the angle measure

Angle = 38°

Adjacent Leg = x

Hypotenuse = 21

Step 3: Solve for x

1. Substitute [cosine]: cos38° = x/21
2. Isolate x: 21cos38° = x
3. Rewrite: x = 21cos38°
4. Evaluate: x = 16.5482
5. Round: x ≈ 16.5