SOLUTION: Suppose we want the measure in degrees of the smallest angle in a 5-12-13 right triangle. The units in the figure aren't the right size to make a picture easy to interpret. Figure

Algebra ->  Triangles -> SOLUTION: Suppose we want the measure in degrees of the smallest angle in a 5-12-13 right triangle. The units in the figure aren't the right size to make a picture easy to interpret. Figure       Log On


   



Question 561907: Suppose we want the measure in degrees of the smallest angle in a 5-12-13 right triangle. The units in the figure aren't the right size to make a picture easy to interpret. Figure out a way to use similar triangles in the figure so you can view this angle in a triangle that fits in the figure's viewing area. Give the number of degrees correct to the nearest tenth of a degree.

Answer by richard1234(7193) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
You might have to construct an altitude from the 90 degree angle. This will cut the 5-12-13 triangle into two smaller (similar) triangles.

The best way to find the smaller angle is to use trig. If theta denotes the smallest angle, then