Question

the angle of elevation at the top of a flagpole from a point on the ground is 19 degrees. The height of the flagpole is known to be 40 feet. How far is the point on the ground from the bottom of the flagpole

Answer 1

Answer: 116.1684351 ft

Explanation:

Ps: "When you do this type of question, it will be much more helpful if you draw a graph."

In this question, the graph is just a right triangle. Since it says the angle of elevation is 19 degree, so the angle at the base must be 19 degree. (I attach the graph I draw)

After we draw the graph, we can start solving it.

This question is really easy, because the only concept you need to use is tangent.

In the graph, tan(19) is equal to 40/(?), in which ? is the distance between the point on the ground and the bottom of the flagpole.

tan(19) = 40/(?)

?tan(19) = 40

? = 40/tan(19)

After you plug 40/tan(19) (Make sure your calculator mode is in Degree not Radian!) into your calculator, you will be 116.1684351 ft.