Question

If the shadow of a person standing in the sun is 3 times its height, then the angle of elevation of the sun is:

A) 30°
B) 45°
C) 60°
D) 75°

Answer 1

The angle of elevation of the sun is approximately 18.43°.

Step-by-step explanation:

In this problem, we are given that the shadow of a person standing in the sun is 3 times its height. To find the angle of elevation of the sun, we can use the concept of similar triangles.

Let's assume the person's height is h and the length of the shadow is s. According to the given information, we have s = 3h.

The angle of elevation of the sun can be determined using the tangent function. Tan(angle) = opposite/adjacent = h/s. Plugging in the values, tan(angle) = h/(3h) = 1/3.

Solving for angle, we get angle = arctan(1/3), which is approximately 18.43°.

Therefore, the correct angle of elevation of the sun is approximately 18.43°.