Solving for $\theta$ and $H$ in Trig Equation

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In summary, the conversation is about finding the unknowns in a system of equations involving trigonometric functions. The suggested method is to square and add the equations, which leads to the elimination of one variable. The resulting value for $H$ is then used to solve for the remaining variable. There is also a question about the sign of $H$.
  • #1
Drain Brain
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I need help finding the unknowns

$H\cos(\theta)+559.68=750$
$H\sin(\theta)-124.26=0$
 
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  • #2
I need help finding the unknowns

I know I have two unknowns and two equations but sin cos made me confuse when I try to solve one of the variable and plug it in one of the equations please help. Thanks!

$H\cos(\theta)+559.68=750$
$H\sin(\theta)-124.26=0$
 
  • #3
Hello. :) What have you tried?
 
  • #4
I would first write the system in the form:

\(\displaystyle H\cos(\theta)=a\)

\(\displaystyle H\sin(\theta)=b\)

Square and add both equations, and you can eliminate $\theta$. What do you find?

edit: I have merged the two duplicate threads.
 
  • #5
MarkFL said:
I would first write the system in the form:

\(\displaystyle H\cos(\theta)=a\)

\(\displaystyle H\sin(\theta)=b\)

Square and add both equations, and you can eliminate $\theta$. What do you find?

edit: I have merged the two duplicate threads.

Or to avoid extraneous solutions, you can divide the second equation by the first, thereby making an equation just in terms of $\displaystyle \begin{align*} \tan{(\theta )} \end{align*}$...
 
  • #6
Hi MarkFL!

$\displaystyle H\cos(\theta)=a$(1)
$\displaystyle H\sin(\theta)=b$(2)

solvind for a and b

$a=190.32$
$b=124.26$

squaring and adding both equations I have

$H^2(\sin^2(\theta)+\cos^2(\theta))=(190.32)^2+(124.26)^2$
$H^2(1)= (190.32)^2+(124.26)^2$
$H=\sqrt((190.32)^2+(124.26)^2$
$H=227.29$

Solving for theta using equation (1) or (2)

Using (1)

$H\cos(\theta)=a$
$227.29\cos(\theta)=190.32$

$\theta=\cos^{-1}(\frac{190.32}{227.29})$
$\theta=33.14^{\circ}$

:))) hooray!
 
  • #7
Does $H$ have to be positive?
 

FAQ: Solving for $\theta$ and $H$ in Trig Equation

What is the process for solving for $\theta$ and $H$ in a trigonometric equation?

The process for solving for $\theta$ and $H$ in a trigonometric equation depends on the specific equation and the given information. However, in general, you will need to use the trigonometric identities and algebraic manipulation to isolate the variables and solve for them. It is also important to pay attention to the domain of the equation and any restrictions on the values of $\theta$ and $H$.

What are the common trigonometric identities that are used in solving for $\theta$ and $H$?

Some common trigonometric identities that are used in solving for $\theta$ and $H$ include the Pythagorean identities, the sum and difference identities, and the double angle identities. It is important to be familiar with these identities and know when to apply them in the solving process.

How can I check my solutions when solving for $\theta$ and $H$ in a trigonometric equation?

One way to check your solutions is to substitute them back into the original equation and see if they satisfy the equation. Another way is to use a graphing calculator to graph both sides of the equation and see if they intersect at the same point, which would indicate that the solution is correct.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when solving for $\theta$ and $H$ in a trigonometric equation?

Some common mistakes to avoid include forgetting to check the domain and restrictions, forgetting to apply the correct trigonometric identities, and making algebraic errors. It is also important to double check your answers and use multiple methods to check for accuracy.

What are some real-life applications of solving for $\theta$ and $H$ in trigonometric equations?

Solving for $\theta$ and $H$ in trigonometric equations has many real-life applications, such as in navigation and surveying, where knowing angles and distances are important. It is also used in fields such as physics, engineering, and astronomy to solve problems involving triangles and angles. Additionally, understanding trigonometric equations is crucial in understanding and analyzing periodic phenomena in nature and finance.

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