Question

Using trigonometry, determine the angle of elevation (in degrees) required for a ball to just clear the center field fence if hit 2 ft above the ground.

a) 0.86°
b) 2.00°
c) 45.00°
d) 90.00°
(b) What is the name and location of the major league ballpark that meets the specified criteria?

a) Yankee Stadium, New York
b) Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles
c) Fenway Park, Boston
d) Wrigley Field, Chicago

Answer 1

The angle of elevation required for a ball to just clear the center field fence is 2.00°.

Step-by-step explanation:

To determine the angle of elevation required for a ball to just clear the center field fence, we can use trigonometry. Let's assume the distance from the point where the ball is hit to the center field fence is 'd' feet. We know that the ball is hit 2 feet above the ground. If 'x' is the angle of elevation, we can set up the equation:

tan(x) = 2/d

Solving for 'x', we find that x = arc tan(2/d). To find the angle in degrees, we can use a calculator or reference table. Therefore, the correct angle of elevation would be 2.00°, option (b).

However, it is important to note that this calculation assumes ideal conditions and neglects air resistance and other factors that can affect the trajectory of the ball.