SOLUTION: Having trouble with the following word problem. I would greatly appreciate any help with finding the solution. When the angle of elevation of the sun is 52 degrees, a telephone

Algebra ->  Trigonometry-basics -> SOLUTION: Having trouble with the following word problem. I would greatly appreciate any help with finding the solution. When the angle of elevation of the sun is 52 degrees, a telephone      Log On


   

Question 813612: Having trouble with the following word problem. I would greatly appreciate any help with finding the solution.
When the angle of elevation of the sun is 52 degrees, a telephone pole that is tilted 10 degrees directly away from the sun casts a shadow that is 32 ft. long on level ground. Approximate the length of the pole.
Answer by ankor@dixie-net.com(22740) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
When the angle of elevation of the sun is 52 degrees, a telephone pole that is tilted 10 degrees directly away from the sun casts a shadow that is 32 ft. long on level ground.
Approximate the length of the pole.
:
Draw a triangle the represents this
The base = 32 ft
The angle 52 degrees from the ground to the top of the pole to the sun (opposite the pole)
The pole is tilted 10 degrees from the being vertical, therefore the angle with the ground = 80 degrees.
Find the third angle: 180 - 80 - 52 - 48 degrees (opposite the base of 32')
let h = the height of the poles
Using the law of sines we have
h%2Fsin%2852%29 = 32%2Fsin%2848%29
Cross multiply
sin(48)*h = 32*sin(52)
Find the sines on the calc
.743h = 32 * .788
h = 25.2%2F.743
h = 34 ft is the height of the pole
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