SOLUTION: The obtuse angle a ladder makes with the ground is 20 degrees more than three times the acute angle it makes with the ground. Find the measure of the two angles formed by the ladde

Algebra ->  Angles -> SOLUTION: The obtuse angle a ladder makes with the ground is 20 degrees more than three times the acute angle it makes with the ground. Find the measure of the two angles formed by the ladde      Log On


   

Question 898169: The obtuse angle a ladder makes with the ground is 20 degrees more than three times the acute angle it makes with the ground. Find the measure of the two angles formed by the ladder and the ground. I don't know how to set it up and solve it. I tried doing 90+20/3 but I know that is not right. Can you help me?
Answer by Fombitz(32388) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
First step, make a diagram.

The ladder is in blue.
The wall and ground are in black.
A%2BB=180
B=20%2B3A
Substitute,
A%2B%2820%2B3A%29=180
4A%2B20=180
4A=160
Now solve for A and then work backwards to solve for B