SAT II Math II : Finding Angles with Trigonometry

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for SAT II Math II

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Finding Angles With Trigonometry

In :

Evaluate  to the nearest degree.

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

The figure referenced is below: 

Triangle z

 

 

By the Law of Cosines, the relationship of the measure of an angle  of a triangle and the three side lengths , and  the sidelength opposite the aforementioned angle, is as follows:

All three side lengths are known, so we are solving for . Setting

, the length of the side opposite the unknown angle;

;

;

and ,

We get the equation

Solving for :

Taking the inverse cosine:

,

the correct response.

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