Let’s solve the problem step by step.
We are given a right triangle with:
- Opposite side to angle θ = 5
- Adjacent side to angle θ = 12
We need to find angle θ, correct to 1 decimal place.
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Step 1: Choose the correct trigonometric ratio.
Since we have
opposite and
adjacent, we use
tangent:
> tan(θ) = opposite / adjacent
So,
> tan(θ) = 5 / 12
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Step 2: Calculate the value of 5 12.
5 ÷ 12 = 0.416666... (repeating)
---
Step 3: Use inverse tangent (tan⁻¹) to find θ.
On your calculator, press:
> shift → tan → then enter 0.416666...
Or type: tan⁻¹(5/12)
Make sure your calculator is in
degree mode.
tan⁻¹(0.416666...) ≈ 22.61986... degrees
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Step 4: Round to 1 decimal place.
Look at the second decimal digit: it’s 1 (from 22.619...), which is less than 5, so we round down.
→ 22.6°
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Final Answer:
22.6
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of using trigonometric ratios to find angles worksheet answers.
