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Advanced Math/Trigonometry word problem
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Question
A billboard is 20-ft, the bottom of which is 15-ft off the ground.
There are two areas on the ground under the sign, one which is 10-ft from the base of the sign and the other is 15-ft from the base.
Promblem: If we use the 10-ft patch of ground from the base;
1. What length of ladder is required for us to reach the bottom of the sign?
2. What length of ladder is required for us to reach the top of the sign?
Problem: If we use the patch of ground that is 15-ft from the base of the sign;
1. What length of ladder is required for us to reach the bottom of the sign?
2. What length of ladder is required for us to reach the top of the sign?
I could use your help. Im not understanding how to use Pythagorean Theorem for a billboard with measurements. Hope you can help. Thanks John
Hi John,
I understand now what you mean. For the first two questions, you are very correct when you say that the pythagorean theorem should be used. I think I will do one problem for you as an example. Then, I'm sure you'll be able to do the rest.
1. We would do 10^2 + 15^2 = x^2
x^2 = 325
x = sqrt(325)
Basically all you do is plug in the numbers to the pythagorean theorem. Another thing that will help to do these kinds of problems is to draw a picture. Now you can just draw a straight line for the billboard and have two points for the patches of grass.
Please ask again if you have any questions
Robi
PS. Sorry about the early confusion: I have had lots of questions about homework lately and didn't understand that you wanted to learn.
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | I am not wanting an answer. I need to see if you can help me with how to solve it.If you just gave me the answer, that would not help me when I am tested on it. I think it has to do with the Pythagoran Theorm a^2 b^2=c^2. If I am on the right track can you help me get started with it. Thanks John And sorry for the confusion, I just wanted you to see what the whole problem looked like. I am going to ITT TECH. I am 37 and going back to school. Thanks again. | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Robi Bhattacharjee
Expertise
I can answer a variety of questions on mathematics. Questions on trigonometry, calculus(preferably single variable), algebra, geometry, and number theory will be answered. I cannot answer questions on abstract branches of mathematics such as group theory. I also cannot answer questions on statistics. In number theory, I can answer questions on congruences, prime numbers, units, functions, and the riemann-zeta function.
Experience
I have studied advanced math my entire life. I started calculus in sixth grade. I have attended numerous math competitions and I am attending math organizations such as the San-Diego math circle. Also, this year I have been invited to the USAMO which is a prestigious math competition (Every year the USAMO invites 500 students from across the USA to participate in this competition. The top 6 go to represent the USA in the International Math Olympiad).
Organizations
I am in the San Diego Math Circle
Education/Credentials
I am entering high school and have received a perfect score and the STAR test 5 times in a row. I also have gotten recognitions in the AMC 10, AIME, Math Counts, and ARML. Additionally, I have won the San Diego Math Olimpiad twice in a row.
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