SOLUTION: i need help with understaning how to do my math project. i have to find a object that is to big to measure. then measure my shadow and that objects shadow.and then use the properti

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Question 200522: i need help with understaning how to do my math project. i have to find a object that is to big to measure. then measure my shadow and that objects shadow.and then use the properties of similar triangles to determine the hight of the chosen object.
Answer by vleith(2983) (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Use a flag pole or a telephone pole or maybe a light in a local parking lot. Something like that.
Let's say you find a tall telephone pole.
Let the sun get to a point where the shadow is not "too wierd" (that is, dont try this at noon or near dark or at night).
Make sure the shadow falls on flat ground.
Now stand in the shadow at the base of the pole.
Walk away from the pole, all the while staying in the shadow.
Stand straight up and keep walking until the 'top' of your shadow just reaches the shadow of the top of the pole.
At this point you will be some distance from the pole.
Standing straight up, make sure the shadows just touch.
Make a line at the back of your heel. (chalk or a stick or something)
Now quickly move up to the top of the shadow (the shadow of the top of the pole).
Mark that place.
Now measure the distance from the pole to the last mark you made (the lenght of the pole's shadow)
Now measure the distance between the two marks you made (the lenght of your shadow)
Measure your own height.
You have the info you need