SOLUTION: I am attempting to solve a distance problem. But, am finding that I am having difficulty with the problem. Any assistance with the this problem would be greatly appreciated. Prob

Algebra ->  Trigonometry-basics -> SOLUTION: I am attempting to solve a distance problem. But, am finding that I am having difficulty with the problem. Any assistance with the this problem would be greatly appreciated. Prob      Log On


   

Question 143662: I am attempting to solve a distance problem. But, am finding that I am having difficulty with the problem. Any assistance with the this problem would be greatly appreciated.
Problem: A weather balloon(B) lies directly over a 1000-meter airstrip extending from A to C. The angle of elevation from A to B is 55 degrees and from C to B is 37 degrees. I need to find the distance from A to B and from C to B.
Answer by ankor@dixie-net.com(22740) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
A weather balloon(B) lies directly over a 1000-meter airstrip extending from A to C. The angle of elevation from A to B is 55 degrees and from C to B is 37 degrees. I need to find the distance from A to B and from C to B.
:
Find the value of the 3rd angle(B): 180 - 37 - 55 = 88
:
Use the law of sines:
sin%28A%29%2Fa = sin%28B%29%2Fb = sin%28C%29%2Fc
:
In your problem AB = c, and CB = a; AC = b, given as 1000ft
:
solve this and find a
sin%2855%29%2Fa = sin%2888%29%2F1000
:
solve this and find c
sin%2888%29%2F1000 = sin%2837%29%2Fc