Question 1122297: The feet of two vertical poles of height 3m and 7m are in line with a point on the ground, the smaller pole being between the taller pole and P at a distance of 20m from P. The angle of elevation of the pole top (T) of the taller pole from top (R) of the smaller pole is 30°.
Calculate the distance RT, and the distance of the foot of the taller pole from P correct to three significant figures.
Answer by solver91311(24713)   (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Construct a horizontal line from the point R that intersects the taller pole 3m above the ground at S. Triangle RST is a 30-60-90 right triangle. The short leg is the difference in height between the two poles, namely 4m. Hence the hypotenuse, TR, is 8 m, and the distance between the poles is  . Add this to 20 meters to find your answer.
You are required to specify the answer to three decimal places, but be aware that in light of the fact that all of the given measurements are specified to the nearest whole number, it is ABSOLUTELY, POSITIVELY, 100% WRONG, to give this answer to any greater precision than to the nearest whole number. Tell your instructor that if s/he wanted the answer to three places, then the three given measurements should have been 3.000 meters, 7.000 meters, and 20.000 meters.
John
My calculator said it, I believe it, that settles it
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