Solving Right Triangles
Right triangles are solved by finding unknown sides and angles using trigonometric relationships. Let's see how this works in practice!
In example 1a, we're given two sides a=3,b=4 and asked to find the remaining values. Using the Pythagorean theorem c2=a2+b2, we find c = 5. Then we use tangent ratios to find angles A and B, which are approximately 36.87° and 53.13°.
For example 1b, we're given angle A = 30° and hypotenuse c = 8. Using the formula sin A = a/c, we calculate a = 4. Since it's a right triangle, B = 60°. Finally, we use cos A = b/c to find b ≈ 6.93.
🔍 Important: When solving right triangles, always check your work! The sum of all angles should equal 180°, and the Pythagorean theorem should be satisfied by your side lengths.