5 Pythagoras and

trigonometry
LESSON SEQUENCE
5.1 Overview ................................................................................................................................................................. 254
5.2 Pythagoras’ theorem .......................................................................................................................................... 258
5.3 Applications of Pythagoras’ theorem .......................................................................................................... 267
5.4 Trigonometric ratios ............................................................................................................................................ 274
5.5 Calculating unknown side lengths ................................................................................................................ 282
5.6 Calculating unknown angles ........................................................................................................................... 291
5.7 Angles of elevation and depression ............................................................................................................. 299
5.8 Review ..................................................................................................................................................................... 305
LESSON
5.1 Overview
5.1.1 Why learn this?
Trigonometry is the branch of geometry that is concerned with triangles. The word
̄
‘trigonometry’ was created in the sixteenth century from the Greek words trigonon
(‘triangle’) and metron (‘measure’), but the study of the geometry of triangles
goes back to at least the sixth century BCE, when the ancient Greek philosopher
Pythagoras of Samos developed his famous theorem.
Pythagoras was particularly interested in right-angled triangles and the
relationships between their sides. Later, Greek mathematicians used Pythagoras’
theorem and the trigonometric ratios to calculate all kinds of distances,
including Earth’s circumference. Trigonometry is still the primary tool used by
surveyors and geographers today when working out distances between points on
Earth’s surface.
None of the structures we build would be possible without our understanding of
geometry and trigonometry. Engineers apply the principles of geometry and trigonometry regularly to make sure
that buildings are strong, stable and capable of withstanding extreme conditions. Triangles are particularly useful
to engineers and architects because they are the strongest shape. Any forces applied to a triangular frame will
be distributed equally to all of its sides and joins. This fact has been known for thousands of years — triangular
building frames were used as far back as the sixth century BCE.
A truss is an example of a structure that relies on the strength of triangles. Trusses are often used to hold up the
roofs of houses and to keep bridges from falling down. Triangular frames can even be applied to curved shapes.
Geodesic domes, like the one shown here, are rounded structures that are made up of many small triangular
frames connected together. This use of triangular frames makes geodesic domes very strong, but also very light
and easy to build.

Hey students! Bring these pages to life online

Watch Engage with Answer questions
videos interactivities and check solutions

Find all this and MORE in jacPLUS

Reading content Extra learning

and rich media, resources
including
interactivities
and videos for
Differentiated
every concept
question sets

Questions with
immediate
feedback, and
fully worked
solutions to help
students get
unstuck

254 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

Exercise 5.1 Pre-test
1. Calculate the value of x in the diagram shown.

12 cm 13 cm

2. Calculate the value of a in the diagram shown, correct to 2 decimal places.

37.1 m

am
24.6 m

55.9 m

3. MC Identify which set of 3 numbers could represent the sides of a right-angled triangle.
A. 2, 3, 4 B. 5, 12, 13 C. 1, 2, 3 D. 5, 6, 7

4. If a right-angled triangle has side lengths a, a + b and a − b, where both a and b are greater than 0, state
which one of the lengths is the hypotenuse.

5. MC Identify the correct rule linking the sides of the right-angled triangle
shown.
2 c
A. c2 = (a + b)
b
B. c = a + b

C. c2 = a2 + b2 a
b
D. c =
a

6. MC Consider the right-angled triangle shown. Identify the correct option for

angle 𝜃.
A. a is the adjacent side. c
a
B. b is the opposite side.
C. a is the hypotenuse 𝜃
D. b is the adjacent side.
b

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 255

 7. MC Identify the correct trigonometric ratio for the triangle shown.
a
A. tan(𝜃) = b 𝜃
c a
b
B. sin(𝜃) =
a c
c
C. cos(𝜃) =
b
c
D. sin(𝜃) =
b

8. Calculate the length of the unknown side of each of the following triangles, correct to 2 decimal places.
a. b. b

6.2 cm
a

34°
13.4 mm

21°

9. Evaluate, correct to 4 decimal places.

a. sin(62.5°) b. cos(12.1°) c. tan(74.9°)

10. MC Identify the lengths of the unknown sides in the

15
triangle shown. b
A. a = 6.1, b = 13.7 and c = 7.3 24° 40°
B. a = 6.1, b = 13.7 and c = 5.1 a c
C. a = 5.1, b = 6.1 and c = 13.7
D. a = 13.7, b = 6.1 and c = 7.3

11. Calculate the value of 𝜃 in the triangle shown, correct to 1 decimal place.

15.3 cm

6.2 cm

256 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

12. MC Identify the value of 𝜃 in the triangle shown, correct to 2 decimal places.
A. 25.27° 𝜃
B. 28.16°
C. 28.17°
307.8
D. 61.83°

145.3

13. MC Determine the correct value of the side length a.

A. 7.62
B. 10.04
C. 14.34 25
D. 20.48

35° 62°
a

14. A person who is 1.54 m tall stands 10 m from the foot of a tree and records the angle of elevation
(using an inclinometer) to the top of the tree as 30°.
Evaluate the height of the tree, in metres correct to 2 decimal places.

30°

1.54 m

10 m

15. The angle of depression from a scuba diver who is floating on the water’s surface to a shark swimming
below them on the sea floor is 35.8°. The depth of the water is 35 m.
Evaluate the horizontal distance from the scuba diver to the shark, in metres correct to 2 decimal places.

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 257

 LESSON
5.2 Pythagoras’ theorem
LEARNING INTENTIONS
At the end of this lesson you should be able to:
• identify the hypotenuse in a right-angled triangle
• recall Pythagoras’ theorem
• apply Pythagoras’ theorem to calculate unknown side lengths.

5.2.1 Introducing Pythagoras’ theorem

eles-4750
• A right-angled triangle is a triangle that contains a right angle (90°).
Hy
• The longest side of a right-angled triangle is always found opposite the po
ten
right angle. This side is called the hypotenuse. us
e
• Pythagoras (580–501 BCE) was a Greek mathematician who explored
the relationship take between the lengths of the sides of right-angled triangles.
• The relationship he described is known as Pythagoras’ theorem.
• If the lengths of two sides of a right-angled triangle are given, then Pythagoras’ theorem lets us calculate
the length of the unknown side.

Pythagoras’ theorem
In any right-angled triangle, the square of the hypotenuse is equal to
the sum of the squares of the other two sides. This rule is written as
follows. c
a
2 2 2
c =a +b
In this rule, a and b represent the two shorter sides of a right-angled b
triangle, while c represents the hypotenuse.

WORKED EXAMPLE 1 Assigning Pythagorean identities

For the right-angled triangles shown below:

i. state which side is the hypotenuse ii. write Pythagoras’ theorem.
a. b.
f m p
d

e t

THINK WRITE
a. i. The hypotenuse is always opposite the right a. Side f is opposite the right angle. Therefore,
angle. side f is the hypotenuse.
f H
ypo
te nus
d e

258 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

 ii. If the triangle is labelled as usual with a, b and c,
as shown in blue, Pythagoras’ theorem can be c f
written and then the letters can be replaced with d
a
their new values (names).
e b
c = f; a = d; b = e
c2 = a2 + b2
f 2 = d2 + e2

b. i. The hypotenuse is opposite the right angle. b.

m p

Hypotenuse t
Side t is opposite the right angle.
Therefore, side t is the hypotenuse.
ii. If the labels on the triangle are replaced with a, b
and c, as shown in blue, Pythagoras’ theorem can b p
m
be written out, and then the letters a, b and c can a
be changed back to the original labels.
t c

c = t; b = p; a = m
c2 = a2 + b2
t2 = m2 + p2

5.2.2 Calculating unknown side lengths

eles-4751
• Pythagoras’ theorem can be used to calculate the unknown side length of a right-angled triangle if the other
two side lengths are known.
• To calculate an unknown side length, substitute the known values into the equation c2 = a2 + b2 and solve
for the remaining pronumeral.
• Remember that the hypotenuse always corresponds to the pronumeral c.

WORKED EXAMPLE 2 Calculating the length of the hypotenuse

For the triangle shown, calculate the length of the hypotenuse, x, correct to 1 decimal place.

7 x

11

THINK WRITE
1. Copy the diagram and apply the labels a, b and c to the
triangle, pairing them with the known values and the
c=x
pronumeral. Remember to label the hypotenuse as c. a=7

b = 11

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 259

 2. Write out Pythagoras’ theorem. c2 = a2 + b2

3. Substitute the values of a, b and c into this rule and simplify. x2 = 72 + 112
= 49 + 121
= 170
√
4. Calculate x by taking the square root of 170. Round the x = 170
answer to 1 decimal place. x = 13.0

WORKED EXAMPLE 3 Calculating the length of a shorter side

Calculate the length, as an exact value and correct to 1 decimal place, of the unmarked side of the
triangle shown.

14 cm

8 cm

THINK WRITE
1. Copy the diagram and label the sides a, b and c. Remember to
label the hypotenuse as c. a

c = 14

b=8

2. Write out Pythagoras’ theorem for a shorter side. a2 = c2 − b2

3. Substitute the values of b and c into the equation and simplify. a2 = 142 − 82
= 196 − 64
= 132
√
4. Calculate the value of a by taking the square root of 132. a = 132 Exact answer.
Round the answer to 1 decimal place. = 11.5 cm 1 decimal place.

5.2.3 Applying Pythagoras’ theorem

eles-4752
• If a problem involves a right-angled triangle, then Pythagoras’ theorem can be applied to determine
a solution.

Applying Pythagoras’ theorem to a problem

1. Read the question carefully and draw a right-angled triangle to represent the problem.
2. Identify the known values and place them on the diagram in their correct positions.
3. Identify the variable that you will need to determine.
4. Substitute the known values into Pythagoras’ theorem. Make sure that they are all using the same
units of length. You may need to convert some units.
5. Solve for the unknown value.
6. Use the result to write the answer as a complete sentence.

260 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

 WORKED EXAMPLE 4 Solving problems using Pythagoras’ theorem

A wedge of cake has been cut so that it forms a right-angled

triangle. The longest edge of the wedge is 12 cm long and its shortest
edge is 84 mm long.
Calculate the length of the third side, in cm correct to
1 decimal place.

THINK WRITE
1. Draw a right-angled triangle.
Identify the longest side (this will always be the 12 cm
84 mm
hypotenuse) and place its value on the diagram.
Identify the shortest side and place its value on
the diagram. x
Label the side with unknown length as x.
2. Identify the length of the hypotenuse and the two c = 12 cm
shorter sides. a = 84 mm = 8.4 cm
Check that the units for all measurements are the same. b=x
Convert 84 mm to centimetres by dividing by 10.
3. Substitute the values into the equation and simplify. c2 = a2 + b2
122 = (8.4)2 + x2
144 = 70.56 + x2
4. Solve the equation for x by: 144 − 70.56 = 70.56 − 70.56 + x2
subtracting 70.56 from both sides and taking 73.44 = x2
the square root of both sides. √ √
73.44 = x2
± 8.5697 ≈ x
5. It is not possible for a triangle to have a side with a x = 8.6 cm
negative length, therefore the solution must be the
positive value. Round the answer to 1 decimal place
and include the appropriate units.
6. Write the answer as a sentence. The third side of the slice of cake is
8.6 cm long.

5.2.4 Pythagorean triads

eles-4753
• A Pythagorean triad is a group of any three whole numbers that satisfy Pythagoras’ theorem.
For example, {3, 4, 5} is a Pythagorean triad because 32 = 9, 42 = 16 and 52 = 25, and 9 + 16 = 25.
• Pythagorean triads are useful when solving problems using Pythagoras’ theorem.
• If two known side lengths in a triangle belong to a triad, the length of the third side can be stated without
performing any calculations.
• Some well known Pythagorean triads are {3, 4, 5}, {5, 12, 13}, {8, 15, 17} and {7, 24, 25}.

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 261

 WORKED EXAMPLE 5 Identifying Pythagorean triads

Determine whether the following sets of numbers are Pythagorean triads.

a. {9, 10, 14} b. {33, 65, 56}

THINK WRITE

a. 1. Pythagorean triads satisfy Pythagoras’ a. c2 = a2 + b2

theorem. Substitute the values into the LHS = c2 RHS = a2 + b2
equation c2 = a2 + b2 and determine = 142 = 92 + 102
whether the equation is true. Remember = 196 = 81 + 100
that c is always the longest side. = 181

2. Write your conclusion. Since LHS ≠ RHS, the set {9, 10, 14} is not a
Pythagorean triad.
b. 1. Pythagorean triads satisfy Pythagoras’ b. c2 = a2 + b2
theorem. Substitute the values into the LHS = 652 RHS = 332 + 562
equation c2 = a2 + b2 and determine = 4225 = 1089 + 3136
whether the equation is true. Remember = 4225
that c is always the longest side.
2. Write your conclusion. Since LHS = RHS, the set {33, 65, 56} is a
Pythagorean triad.

• If each term in a Pythagorean triad is multiplied by the same

number, the result is also a triad.
For example, if we multiply each number in {5, 12, 13} by 2,
the result {10, 24, 26} is also a triad.
• Builders and gardeners use multiples of the Pythagorean
triad {3, 4, 5} to make sure that walls and floors are at right
angles to each other.

Algorithm for Pythagorean Triads:

There are different ways to determine Pythagorean Triads, such as Fibonacci’s Method and Sequences of mixed
numbers to name a couple.
We will look at an algorithm using Dickson’s Method of determining Pythagorean Triads.

Step THINK WRITE

1. Select a number and call this r. r=8
r2 r2 82 64
2. Calculate the value of . = = = 32
2 2 2 2
r2
3. List all the pairs of factors of the value. Factors of 32 are:
2 (1, 32)
(2, 16)
(4, 8)
4. Call the factors s and t. Factor (1, 32)
s = 1 and t = 32

262 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

 5. Use the following to calculate the Pythagorean Triads. x = r+s
x = r+s = 8+1
y = r+t =9
z = r+s+t
y = r+t
= 8 + 32
= 40
z = r+s+t
= 8 + 1 + 32
= 41
6. Write the Pythagorean Triad. {9, 40, 41}
7. Repeat for the other factor pairs.
8. Call the factors s and t. Factor (2, 16)
s = 2 and t = 16
9. Use the following to calculate the Pythagorean Triads. x = r+s
x = r+s = 8+2
y = r+t = 10
z = r+s+t
y = r+t
= 8 + 16
= 24
z = r+s+t
= 8 + 2 + 16
= 26
10. Write the Pythagorean Triad. {10, 24, 26}
11. Call the factors s and t. Factor (4, 8)
s = 4 and t = 8
12. Use the following to calculate the Pythagorean Triads. x = r+s
x = r+s = 8+4
y = r+t = 12
z = r+s+t
y = r+t
= 8+8
= 16
z = r+s+t
= 8+4+8
= 20
13. Write the Pythagorean Triad. {12, 16, 20}

Resources
Resourceseses
eWorkbook Topic 5 Workbook (worksheets, code puzzle and project) (ewbk-2005)
Interactivities Individual pathway interactivity: Pythagoras’ theorem (int-4472)
Finding the hypotenuse (int-3844)
Finding the shorter side (int-3845)
Pythagorean triads (int-3848)

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 263

Exercise 5.2 Pythagoras’ theorem
5.2 Quick quiz 5.2 Exercise

Individual pathways
PRACTISE CONSOLIDATE MASTER
1, 5, 6, 8, 12, 15 2, 7, 9, 13, 16 3, 4, 10, 11, 14, 17

Fluency
1. WE1 For the right-angled triangles shown below:
i. state which side is the hypotenuse
ii. write Pythagoras’ theorem.
a. b. y c. w d. V
F
r z
p
x k m
s
U

2. WE2 For each of the following triangles, calculate the length of the hypotenuse, giving answers correct to

2 decimal places.
a. 4.7 b. 19.3 c.

804
6.3
27.1
562

3. WE3 Calculate the value of the pronumeral in each of the following triangles. Give your answers correct to
2 decimal places.
a. x b. c. 80 cm d.
5.2 m
168 mm c
12 cm
10 f
16
100 mm
p 24 mm

4. WE4 Calculate the value of the missing side length. Give your answer correct to 1 decimal place.

12.7 cm
7.5 cm

264 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

 5. WE5 Determine whether the following sets of numbers are Pythagorean triads.
a. {2, 5, 6} b. {7, 10, 12} c. {18, 24, 30}
d. {72, 78, 30} e. {13, 8, 15} f. {50, 40, 30}

Understanding
6. In a right-angled triangle, the two shortest sides are 4.2 cm and 3.8 cm.
a. Draw a sketch of the triangle.
b. Calculate the length of the hypotenuse correct to 2 decimal places.

7. A right-angled triangle has a hypotenuse of 124 mm and another side of 8.5 cm.
a. Draw a diagram of the triangle.
b. Calculate the length of the third side of this triangle. Give your answer in millimetres, correct to
2 decimal places.
8. MC Identify which of the following sets is formed from the Pythagorean triad {21, 20, 29}.
A. {95, 100, 125} B. {105, 145, 100} C. {84, 80, 87} D. {105, 80, 87}

9. MC Identify the length of the hypotenuse in the triangle shown. 4 cm

A. 25 cm
B. 50 cm 3 cm
C. 50 mm
D. 500 mm

10. MC Identify the length of the third side in the triangle shown. 82 cm

A. 48.75 cm
B. 0.698 m 43 cm
C. 0.926 m
D. 92.6 cm
11. The lengths of two sides of a right-angled triangle are given below:
a. a = 37 cm, c = 180 cm; calculate b in cm.
b. a = 856 mm, b = 1200 mm; calculate c in cm.
c. b = 4950 m, c = 5.6 km; calculate a in km.
d. a = 125 600 mm, c = 450 m; calculate b in m.
Calculate the value of the third side. Give your answer in the units specified (correct to 2 decimal places).
The diagram shown illustrates how each triangle is to be labelled.

c
a

b
Remember that c is always the hypotenuse.

Reasoning
12. A ladder that is 7 m long leans up against a vertical wall. The top of the ladder reaches 6.5 m up the wall.
Determine how far the foot of the ladder is from the wall.
Give your answer correct to 2 decimal places.

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 265

13. A rectangular park measures 260 m by 480 m. Danny usually trains by running five circuits around the edge
of the park. After heavy rain, two of the adjacent sides are too muddy to run along, so Danny runs along
a triangular path that traces the other two sides and the diagonal. Danny does five circuits of this path for
training.
Show that Danny has run about 970 metres less than his usual training session.
14. A water park has hired Sharnee to build part of a ramp for a new water slide. She builds a 12-metre-long
ramp that rises to a height of 250 cm. To meet safety regulations, the ramp can only have a gradient between
0.1 and 0.25.
Show that the ramp Sharnee has built is within the regulations.

Problem solving
15. Spiridoula is trying to hang her newest painting on a hook in her hallway. She leans a ladder against the wall
so that the distance between the foot of the ladder and the wall is 80 cm. The ladder is 1.2 m long.
a. Draw a diagram showing the ladder leaning on the wall.
b. Calculate how far up the wall the ladder reaches. Give your answer correct to 2 decimal places.
c. Spiridoula climbs the ladder to check whether she can reach the hook from the step at the very top of the
ladder. When she extends her arm, the distance from her feet to her fingertips is 1.7 m.
If the hook is 2.5 m above the floor, determine whether she can reach it from the top step of the ladder.
16. a. The smallest numbers of four Pythagorean triads are given below. Determine the middle number of each
triad, and use this answer to determine the third number of each triad.
i. 9 ii. 11 iii. 13 iv. 29
b. Comment about the triads formed in part a.

17. We know that it is possible to determine the exact square root of some numbers, but not others. For example,
√ √ √
we can determine 4 exactly, but not 3 or 5. Our calculators can calculate decimal approximations of
these square roots, but because they cannot be found exactly they are called ‘irrational numbers’.
However, there is a method of showing the exact location of irrational numbers on a number line.
Using graph paper, draw a right-angled triangle with 2 equal sides of length 1 cm as shown below.

2
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
√
Using Pythagoras’ theorem, we know that the longest side of√this triangle is 2 units. Place the compass
point at zero and make an arc that will show the location of 2 on the number line.

0 1 22 3 4 5 6 7 8

Draw another right-angled triangle using the longest side of the first triangle as one side, and make the other
side 1 cm in length.

0 1 22 3 4 5 6 7 8
√ √
The longest side of this triangle will have a length of 3 units. Draw an arc to determine the location of 3
on the number line. √ √ √
Repeat these steps to draw triangles that will have sides of length 4, 5, 6 units, and so on.

266 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

 LESSON
5.3 Applications of Pythagoras’ theorem
LEARNING INTENTIONS
At the end of this lesson you should be able to:
• divide composite shapes into simple shapes
• calculate unknown side lengths in composite shapes and irregular triangles
• use Pythagoras’ theorem to solve problems in 3D contexts.

5.3.1 Using composite shapes to solve problems

eles-4754
• Complex or unusual shapes can be thought of as composites of simpler shapes with known properties.
• Dividing a shape into a series of these simpler shapes lets us use the known properties of those shapes to
determine unknown values.
• For example, to calculate the value of x in the trapezium shown, a vertical line can be added to the
trapezium to create two shapes: a right-angled triangle and a rectangle.
• Using Pythagoras’ theorem, we can now calculate the length of x, which has become the hypotenuse of
triangle ABE.
B 20 C B 20 C
x x
10 10

A 36 D A E 36 D

WORKED EXAMPLE 6 Calculating unknown side lengths in composite shapes

Calculate the value of x in the diagram shown, correct to 1 decimal place.

4.2

3.5
5.5

THINK WRITE
1. Add a horizontal line to divide the shape into 2 smaller 4.2
shapes, one that is a right-angled triangle, as shown in
orange. x is the hypotenuse of a right-angled triangle.
3.5 3.5
To use Pythagoras’ theorem, the length of the side shown
in green must be known. This length can be calculated as the 4.2
difference between the long and short vertical edges of the
trapezium: 5.5 − 3.5 = 2. 2
x

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 267

 2. Write out Pythagoras’ theorem and substitute the values of c2 = a2 + b2
a, b and c. x2 = 22 + (4.2)2
a = 2, b = 4.2, c = x
x2 = 4 + 17.64
x2 = 21.64
√ √
x2 = 21.64
x ≈ ±4.651 88

3. It is not possible to have a side with a negative length. x = 4.7

Therefore the solution is the positive value. Round the
answer to 1 decimal place

• To determine the value of y in the irregular triangle shown, the B

triangle can be split into two right-angled triangles: ΔABD (pink)
and ΔBDC (blue). There is now enough information to calculate 4 7
x
the missing side length from ΔABD. This newly calculated length
can then be used to determine the value of y. y
A 2 D C

WORKED EXAMPLE 7 Applying Pythagoras’ theorem to non-right-angled triangles

a. Calculate the perpendicular height of an isosceles triangle with equal sides that are both 15 mm
long and a third side that is 18 mm long.
b. Calculate the area of this triangle.

THINK WRITE
a. 1. Draw the triangle and label all side lengths as described. a.
15 mm 15 mm

18 mm
2. Draw an additional line to represent the height of the
triangle (shown in pink) and label it appropriately. 15 mm 15 mm
Because the triangle is an isosceles triangle, h bisects the h
base of 18 mm (shown in purple) to create two right-angled
triangles. 18 mm

3. Consider one of these right-angled triangles, which both

have a height of h. The base length of each of these triangles 15 mm
18 h
is = 9 mm.
2
9 mm

268 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

 4. Substitute the values from this right-angled triangle into c2 = a2 + b2
Pythagoras’ theorem to calculate the value of h. 152 = h2 + 92
225 = h2 + 81
225 − 81 = h2 + 81 − 81
144 = h2
√ √
144 = h2
± 12 = h
5. It is not possible to have a side with a negative length. h = 12 mm
Therefore the solution is the positive value. Include the The perpendicular height of the
appropriate units in your answer. triangle is 12 mm.
1
b. 1. Write the formula for the area of a triangle. Using the b. A∆ = bh
answers from part a, the base is 18 mm and the height is 2
12 mm. 1
= × 18 × 12
2
= 108
2. Answer the question with appropriate units. The area of the triangle is 108 mm2 .

5.3.2 Pythagoras’ theorem in 3D

eles-4755
• Pythagoras’ theorem can be used to solve problems in three dimensions.
• 3D problems often involve multiple right-angled triangles.
• It is often helpful to redraw sections of a 3D diagram in two dimensions. This makes it easier to see
any right angles.

WORKED EXAMPLE 8 Using Pythagoras’ theorem in 3D problems

Calculate the maximum length of a metal rod that would fit into a rectangular crate with dimensions
1 m × 1.5 m × 0.5 m.
THINK WRITE
1. Draw a diagram of a rectangular box with a rod in it. Label
the dimensions of this diagram.
1.5 m
2. Draw a right-angled triangle that has the metal rod as one
of its sides (x, shown in pink). The lengths of x and y in this
right-angled triangle are not known. z x
Draw a second right-angled triangle (shown in green) to 0.5 m
allow you to calculate the length of y. y 1m

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 269

 3. Calculate the length of y using Pythagoras’ theorem.
y
1m

1.5 m

c2 = a2 + b2
y2 = 1.52 + 12
y2 = 3.25
√
y = 3.25
4. Draw the right-angled triangle that has the rod as its
hypotenuse. Use Pythagoras’ theorem to calculate the x
length of x. 0.5 m
z = height of the crate = 0.5 m

y = √ 3.25 m
c = a + b2
2 2

(√ )2
x2 = 3.25 + 0.52

x2 = 3.25 + 0.25
x2 = 3.5
√
x = 3.5
≈ 1.87
5. Answer the question with appropriate units. The maximum length of the metal rod is
1.87 m (correct to 2 decimal places).

Resources
Resourceseses
eWorkbook Topic 5 Workbook (worksheets, code puzzle and project) (ewbk-2005)
Video eLesson Pythagoras’ theorem in 3 dimensions (eles-1913)
Interactivities Individual pathway interactivity: Applications of Pythagoras’ theorem (int-4475)
Composite shapes (int-3847)

270 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

Exercise 5.3 Applications of Pythagoras’ theorem
5.3 Quick quiz 5.3 Exercise

Individual pathways
PRACTISE CONSOLIDATE MASTER
1, 2, 4, 8, 14, 18 3, 6, 7, 9, 13, 15, 16, 19 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 20

Fluency
13 cm
1. WE6 Calculate the length of the side x in the figure shown, correct to
2 decimal places.
x 11 cm

18 cm

2. Calculate the values of the pronumerals in each of the following photographs and diagrams. Give your
answers correct to 2 decimal places.
a. b.

9.6 cm
k x
m
8.3

5m 15 m

3.4 cm

c.
4.7 km

3.2 km
5.5 km
g

3. For each of the following diagrams, calculate the lengths of the sides marked x and y. Give your answer
correct to 2 decimal places (where necessary).
a. b.

10 12
x 8 x
5

y 4
3
y
c. 5 d.
y

18
x 18
12
20
x 5

10 y

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 271

 4. WE7 The height of an isosceles triangle is 3.4 mm and its equal sides are twice as long.
a. Sketch the triangle, showing all the information given.
b. Calculate the length of the third side, correct to 2 decimal places.
c. Calculate the area of the triangle, correct to 2 decimal places.

Understanding
5. WE8 Calculate the length of the longest metal rod that could fit diagonally into each of the boxes shown
below. Give your answers correct to 2 decimal places.
a. b. 1.1 m c.
18 cm 17.02 cm

1.75 cm
19.5 cm
1.6 m
15 cm 42.13 cm

13.04 cm
6. The side length of an equilateral triangle is 1 m. Calculate:
a. the height of the triangle in metres, correct to 2 decimal places
b. the area of the triangle in m2 , correct to 3 decimal places.

7. MC Identify the longest length of an object that fits into a box with dimensions of 42 cm × 60 cm × 13 cm.
A. 74.5 cm B. 60 cm C. 73.2 cm D. 74 cm

8. Priya wants to pack an umbrella into her suitcase, which measures 89 cm × 21 cm × 44 cm.
a. State whether her 1 m umbrella will fit in.
b. Give the length of the longest umbrella that Priya could fit in their suitcase, correct to 2 decimal places.

9. Giang is packing her lunch into her lunchbox, which measures 15 cm × 5 cm × 8 cm.
a. State whether her 22 cm straw will fit in.
b. Calculate the length of the longest object that will fit into Giang’s lunchbox, correct to 2 decimal places.

10. A cylindrical pipe is 2.4 m long. It has an internal diameter of 30 cm. Calculate the size of largest object that
could fit inside the pipe. Give your answer correct to the nearest cm.
11. A classroom contains 20 identical desks 1.75 m
shaped like the one shown.
a. Calculate the width of each desktop 0.6 w
2m
(labelled w). Give your answer correct
to 2 decimal places. 0.95 m
b. Calculate the area of each desktop,
correct to 2 decimal places.
c. If the top surface of each desk needs
to be painted, determine the total area
of the desktops that need to be painted.
Give your answer correct to
2 decimal places.
d. Each desktop needs to be given 2 coats
of paint. The paint being used is sold
in 1-litre tins that cost $29.95 each.
Each of these tins holds enough paint to cover an area of 12 m2 .
Using your answer to part c, calculate how much it will cost to paint all 20 desks.

272 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

12. A utility knife has a blade shaped like a right-angled trapezium. Its sloping edge is 2 cm long and its parallel
sides are 32 mm and 48 mm long.
Calculate the width of the blade, then use your answer to calculate the blade’s area.
13. A cylindrical pencil holder has an internal height of 16 cm. If its diameter is 8.5 cm and its width is 2 mm,
calculate the length of the longest pen that could fit inside the holder. Give your answer correct to the
nearest mm.

Reasoning
14. Consider the figure shown. C

a. State whether you can calculate the length of AC without first calculating the lengths of AD
and DC. 10 cm
b. Calculate the lengths of the sides in part a. Give your answer correct to 2 decimal places.
4 cm
c. Explain whether the triangle ABC is right-angled.
D B
15. Explain in your own words how a 2D right-angled triangle can be seen in a 3D figure. 6 cm
A

16. Katie goes on a hike. She walks 2.5 km north, then 3.1 km east. She then walks 1 km north and 2 km west.
Finally, she walks in a straight line back to her starting point. Show that Katie has walked a total distance of
12.27 km.
17. Consider the following diagram: 1000 cm
A C
a. Show that the distance AB is 18.44 metres.
b. Show that the angle ∠ACB is not a right angle. 10 m

B
1700 cm
Problem solving
18. The diagram shown illustrates a cross-section of the roof of Gabriel’s house. L = 5200 mm
s s h
a. Calculate the height of the roof, h, to the nearest millimetre.
b. The roof’s longer supports, labelled L, are 5200 mm long. Show that the
9000 mm
shorter supports, labelled s, are 2193 mm shorter than the longer supports.

19. A flagpole is attached to the ground by two wires, as illustrated in the

diagram shown. Use the information in the diagram to determine
the length of the lower wire, x.
Give your answer correct to 1 decimal place.

m
20 12.4 m
5.6 m

20. Evaluate the values of the pronumerals w, x, y and z in the diagram shown.

w
x
12 cm
5 cm
z

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 273

 LESSON
5.4 Trigonometric ratios
LEARNING INTENTIONS
At the end of this lesson you should be able to:
• identify the hypotenuse, opposite and adjacent sides of a right-angled triangle with respect to a
given angle
• use the ratios of a triangle’s sides to calculate the sine, cosine and tangent of an angle.

5.4.1 What is trigonometry?

eles-4756
• The word trigonometry is derived from the Greek words trigonon (‘triangle’) and metron
(‘measurement’). The literal translation of the word is ‘to measure a triangle’.
• Trigonometry deals with the relationship between the sides and the angles of a triangle.
• As we have already seen, the longest side of a right-angled triangle is called the hypotenuse. It is always
located opposite the right angle.
• In order to name the remaining two sides of a triangle, another angle, called the ‘given angle’, 𝜃, must be
labelled on the triangle. 𝜃 is pronounced ’theta’; it is the eighth letter of the Greek alphabet.
• The side that is across from the given angle is called the opposite side (or altitude). You can see that the
opposite side does not touch the given angle at all.
• The remaining side is called the adjacent side (or base).
• Note that the given angle always sits between the hypotenuse and the adjacent side.
• When the hypotenuse equals one, sin(𝜃) = Opposite (or altitude) and cos(𝜃) = Adjacent (or base).

Opposite Hypotenuse
Hypotenuse (Altitude)

θ
Adjacent
(Base)

WORKED EXAMPLE 9 Labelling the sides of a right-angled triangle

Label the sides of the right-angled triangle shown using the words ‘hypotenuse’, ‘adjacent’
and ‘opposite’.

274 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

 THINK WRITE
1. Identify the hypotenuse. Remember that the hypotenuse
always lies opposite the right angle.

se
enu
pot
Hy
𝜃

2. Look at the position of the given angle. The given angle

always sits between the hypotenuse and the adjacent side;
therefore, the adjacent side is the bottom side of
this triangle.

use
poten
Hy
𝜃
Adjacent
3. The opposite side does not touch the given angle; therefore, it
is the vertical side on the right of this triangle.
use

Opposite
poten
Hy

𝜃
Adjacent

5.4.2 Trigonometric ratios

eles-4757
• Trigonometry is based upon the ratios between pairs of side lengths. Each of these ratios is given a
special name.
• In any right-angled triangle:

opposite
sine(𝜃) =
hypotenuse
e

Opposite
us
ten
po
Hy

adjacent
cosine(𝜃) =
hypotenuse
θ
Adjacent
opposite
tangent(𝜃) =
adjacent

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 275

 • These rules are often abbreviated as shown in the following.

Trigonometric ratios
O A O
sin(𝜃) = cos(𝜃) = tan(𝜃) =
H H A

• The following mnemonic can be used to help remember the trigonometric

H
ratios. O
θ
SOH − CAH − TOA O
H θ
θ A
• In this mnemonic:
SOH A
Opposite
• SOH refers to sin(𝜃) =
Hypotenuse
TOA
CAH
Adjacent
• CAH refers to cos(𝜃) =
Hypotenuse

Opposite
• TOA refers to tan(𝜃) = .
Adjacent

WORKED EXAMPLE 10 Identifying trigonometric ratios

For the triangle shown, write the equations for the sine, cosine and tangent ratios of the given
angle (𝜃).

13
5

θ
12

THINK WRITE
1. Label the sides of the triangle.
Hypotenuse
13
5
Opposite

θ
12
Adjacent

O A O
2. Write the trigonometric ratios. sin(𝜃) = , cos(𝜃) = , tan(𝜃) = .
H H A
5 12 5
3. Substitute the values of A, O and H into sin(𝜃) = , cos(𝜃) = , tan(𝜃) =
each formula. 13 13 12

276 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

WORKED EXAMPLE 11 Relating sides to trigonometric ratios

For each of the following triangles, write the trigonometric ratio that relates the two given sides and
the given angle.
a. b.
18
15
6 x
50°
b

THINK WRITE
a. 1. Label the given sides. a.
Hypotenuse
15
Opposite
6
b

O
2. We are given O and H. These are used in SOH. Write sin(𝜃) =
the ratio. H
6
3. Substitute the values of the pronumerals into the ratio. sin(b) =
15
2
4. Simplify the fraction. sin(b) =
5

b. 1. Label the given sides. b. Adjacent

18 Opposite
x
50°

O
2. We are given A and O. These are used in TOA. Write tan(𝜃) =
the ratio. A
x
3. Substitute the values of the angle and the pronumerals tan(50°) =
into the ratio. 18

Resources
Resourceseses
eWorkbook Topic 5 Workbook (worksheets, code puzzle and project) (ewbk-2005)
Interactivities Individual pathway interactivity: Trigonometric ratios (int-4498)
Triangles (int-3843)
Trigonometric ratios (int-2577)

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 277

Exercise 5.4 Trigonometric ratios
5.4 Quick quiz 5.4 Exercise

Individual pathways
PRACTISE CONSOLIDATE MASTER
1, 3, 5, 8, 11, 13, 16, 19 2, 6, 9, 14, 17, 20 4, 7, 10, 12, 15, 18, 21

Fluency
WE9 For questions 1 and 2, label the sides of the following right-angled triangles using the words ‘hypotenuse’,

‘adjacent’ and ‘opposite’.

1. a. b. c.
θ

θ θ

2. a. b. c.
θ θ
Adjacent

3. For each of the following right-angled triangles, label the given angle and, where appropriate, the
hypotenuse, the adjacent side and the opposite side.
a. E b. Opposite c. K
G I t
en
jac
D Ad
nt
a ce J
dj
A
F
H L

4. MC Identify which option correctly names the sides and angle of the triangle shown.
A

θ
B C

A. ∠B = 𝜃, AB = adjacent side, AC = hypotenuse, BC = opposite side

B. ∠C = 𝜃, AC = opposite side, BC = hypotenuse, AC = adjacent side
C. ∠A = 𝜃, AB = opposite side, BC = hypotenuse, AC = adjacent side
D. ∠C = 𝜃, AB = opposite side, AC = hypotenuse, BC = adjacent side

278 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

 WE10 For questions 5–10, based on the given angle in the triangles shown, write the expressions for the ratios

of sine, cosine and tangent.

5. 6
θ

10 8

6.

i h

α
g

7.
β
1.5
0.9

1.2

8.
7
γ 24

25

9.
a b

β
c

10.

u
v

γ
t

11. Write the trigonometric ratio that relates the two given sides and the given angle in each of the
WE11

following triangles.
a. b. c. 5 d.
25
θ 17
t
θ
15
12 4
30 35°

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 279

12. Write the trigonometric ratio that relates the two given sides and the given angle in each of the
following triangles.
a. 14.3 b. 7 c. θ d.

20 31 9.8

17.5 α
α 3.1
x

15°

Understanding
13. MC Identify the correct trigonometric ratio for the triangle shown.
a c γ
A. tan(𝛾) = B. sin(𝛾) = b
c a a
c c
C. cos(𝛾) = D. sin(𝛾) =
b b c

14. MC Identify the incorrect trigonometric ratio for the triangle shown.
b a a b
A. sin(𝛼) = B. sin(𝛼) =
c c α θ
a b c
C. cos(𝛼) = D. tan(𝛼) =
c a

15. MC A right-angled triangle contains angles 𝛼 and 𝛽 as well as its right angle. Identify which of the
following statements is always correct.
A. sin(𝛼) = sin(𝛽) B. tan(𝛼) = tan(𝛽)
1
C. cos(𝛼) = 1 − sin(𝛽) D. tan(𝛼) =
tan(𝛽)

Reasoning
16. If a right-angled triangle has side lengths m, (m + n) and (m − n), explain which of the lengths is the
hypotenuse.
17. Given the triangle shown:

45°
b
a. explain why a = b
b. determine the value of tan(45°).

280 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

18. Using a protractor and ruler, carefully measure and draw a right-angled triangle with a
base 10 cm long and an angle of 60°, as shown in the diagram. Measure the length of the
other two sides of this triangle and mark these lengths on the diagram as well. Give the
lengths of these sides to the nearest millimetre.
Use your measurements to calculate the following three ratios, correct to 2 decimal places.

opposite opposite adjacent

= , = , =
adjacent hypotenuse hypotenuse
60°
Draw another triangle, similar to the first. Make the base length any length you want, 10 cm
but make sure all angles are equal to the angles in the first triangle. Once this is done,
measure the length of the remaining two sides.
Calculate the following three ratios correct to 2 decimal places.

opposite opposite adjacent

= , = , =
adjacent hypotenuse hypotenuse

Comment on the conclusions you can draw from these two sets of ratios.

Problem solving
19. A ladder leans on a wall as shown. In relation to the angle given,
identify the part of the image that represents:
a. the adjacent side
b. the hypotenuse 40 50
c. the opposite side. 37.5°
30
20. Consider the right-angled triangle shown.
a. Label each of the sides using the letters O, A and H with respect to
the 41° angle. α
b. Determine the value of each of the following trigonometric ratios,
correct to 2 decimal places. 49 mm
32 mm
i. sin(41°) ii. cos(41°) iii. tan(41°)
c. Calculate the value of the unknown angle, 𝛼.
d. Determine the value of each of the following trigonometric ratios,
correct to 2 decimal places. (Hint: Start by re-labelling the sides of 41°
the triangle with respect to angle 𝛼.) 37 mm
i. sin(𝛼) ii. cos(𝛼) iii. tan(𝛼)
e. Comment about the relationship between sin(41°) and cos(𝛼).
f. Comment about the relationship between sin(𝛼) and cos(41°).
g. Make a general statement about the two angles.

21. In relation to right-angled triangles, investigate the following.

a. As the acute angle increases in size, determine what happens to the ratio of the length of the opposite side
to the length of the hypotenuse in any right-angled triangle.
b. As the acute angle increases in size, determine what happens to the ratio of the length of the adjacent side
to the length of the hypotenuse. Determine what happens to the ratio of the length of the opposite side to
the length of the adjacent side.
c. Evaluate the largest possible value for the following.
i. sin(𝜃) ii. cos(𝜃) iii. tan(𝜃)

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 281

 LESSON
5.5 Calculating unknown side lengths
LEARNING INTENTIONS
At the end of this lesson you should be able to:
• use a calculator to calculate the trigonometric ratios for a given angle
• determine the lengths of unknown sides in a right-angled triangle given an angle and one known
side length.

5.5.1 Values of trigonometric ratios

eles-4758
• The values of the trigonometric ratios are always the same for a given angle.
For example, if a right-angled triangle has a given angle of 30°, then the ratio of the opposite side to the
hypotenuse will always be equal to sin(30°) = 0.5.
• The ratio of the adjacent side to the hypotenuse will always be equal to cos(30°) ≈ 0.87. This relationship
is demonstrated in the table.

O A O
sin(30°) = cos(30°) = tan(30°) =
H H A
5 8.66 5
5 cm 10 cm = = =
10 10 8.66
= 0.5 = 0.87 = 0.58
30°
8.66 cm

O A O
sin(30°) = cos(30°) = tan(30°) =
H H A
1 cm 2 cm 1 1.74 1
= = =
2 2 1.74
30° = 0.5 = 0.87 = 0.58
1.74 cm

WORKED EXAMPLE 12 Evaluating trigonometric ratios using a calculator

Evaluate each of the following. Give your answers correct to 4 decimal places.
a. sin(53°) b. cos(31°) c. tan(79°)
THINK WRITE
a. 1. Set the calculator to degree mode. Make the calculation a. sin(53°) = 0.798 63
and then write out the first 5 decimal places.
2. Round the answer to 4 decimal places. ≈ 0.7986
b. 1. Set the calculator to degree mode. Make the calculation b. cos(31°) = 0.857 16
and then write out the first 5 decimal places.
2. Round the answer to 4 decimal places. ≈ 0.8572
c. 1. Set the calculator to degree mode. Make the calculation c. tan(79°) = 5.144 55
and then write out the first 5 decimal places.
2. Round the answer to 4 places. ≈ 5.1446

282 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

 TI | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE CASIO | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE
a-c. 1. Ensure your calculator a-c. Ensure the calculator is
is set to Degree and in Degree and Decimal
Approximate modes. To modes. On the Main
do this, press: screen, complete the
• HOME entry lines as:
• 5: settings sin(53)
• 2: Document settings cos(31)
In the Display Digits, tan(79)
select Fix 4, tab to Press EXE after each
Angle and select entry.
Degree, then tab to
Calculation Mode and
select Approximate.
a. sin(53°) ≈ 0.7986
Tab to OK and press
b. cos(31°) ≈ 0.8572
ENTER.
c. tan(79°) ≈ 5.1446
2. On a Calculator page,
complete the entry lines
as:
sin(53)
cos(31)
tan(79)
Press CTRL ENTER
after each entry to get a a. sin(53°) ≈ 0.7986
decimal approximation. b. cos(31°) ≈ 0.8572
c. tan(79°) ≈ 5.1446

5.5.2 Determining side lengths using trigonometric ratios

eles-4759
• If a given angle and any side length of a right-angled triangle are known, it is possible to calculate the
lengths of the other sides using trigonometry.
WORKED EXAMPLE 13 Calculating an unknown side length using the tangent ratio

Use the appropriate trigonometric ratio to calculate the length of the unknown side in the triangle
shown. Give your answer correct to 2 decimal places.
16.2 m

58°
x

THINK WRITE
1. Label the given sides. Adjacent
16.2 m

58° Opposite
x

O
2. These sides can be used in TOA. Write tan(𝜃) =
the ratio. A
x
3. Substitute the values of 𝜃, O and A into the ratio. tan(58°) =
16.2

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 283

 4. Solve the equation for x. 16.2 × tan(58°) = x
5. Calculate the value of x to 3 decimal places, then round the x = 16.2 tan(58°)
answer to 2 decimal places. x = 25.925
x ≈ 25.93 m

TI | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE CASIO | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE

Ensure your calculator is set Ensure your calculator is
to Degree mode. In a new set to Degree mode. On the
problem, on a Calculator Main screen, complete the
page, complete the entry entry line
( as: )
(
line as: ) x
x solve tan(58) = ,x
solve tan(58) = ,x 16.2
16.2 Then press EXE.
Then press ENTER.

x = 25.93 m (correct to
2 decimal places)

x = 25.93 m (correct to
2 decimal places)

WORKED EXAMPLE 14 Calculating an unknown side length using the cosine ratio

Use the appropriate trigonometric ratios to calculate the length of the

side marked m in the triangle shown. Give your answer correct to 17.4 cm
2 decimal places.
22°
m

THINK WRITE
1. Label the given sides. Adjacent
17.4 cm

22°
m
Hypotenuse
A
2. These sides can be used in CAH. Write cos(𝜃) =
the ratio. H
17.4
3. Substitute the values of 𝜃, A and H into cos(22°) =
the ratio. m

4. Solve the equation for m. m cos(22°) = 17.4

17.4
m=
cos(22°)

5. Calculate the value of m to 3 decimal places, m = 18.766

then round the answer to 2 decimal places.
m ≈ 18.77 cm

284 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

WORKED EXAMPLE 15 Solving worded problems using trigonometric ratios

Bachar set out on a bushwalking expedition. Using a compass, he set off

on a course N 70°E (or 070°T) and travelled a distance of 5 km from
his base camp.

E
5 km

70°

Base camp

a. Calculate how far east Bachar travelled.

b. Calculate how far north Bachar travelled from the base camp.
Give answers in km correct to 2 decimal places.
THINK WRITE
a. 1. Label the eastern distance x. a. Opposite
Label the northern distance y. x
Label the sides of the triangle as hypotenuse,
opposite and adjacent.
Adjacent
y
5 km
Hypotenuse
70°

O
2. To calculate the value of x, use the sides of sin(𝜃) =
the triangle: x = O, H = 5. H
These are used in SOH. Write the ratio.
x
3. Substitute the values of the angle and the sin(70°) =
pronumerals into the sine ratio. 5

4. Make x the subject of the equation. x = 5 sin(70°)

5. Solve for x using a calculator. Write out the = 4.698
answer to 3 decimal places.
6. Round the answer to 2 decimal places. ≈ 4.70 km
7. Write the answer in sentence form. Bachar has travelled 4.70 km east of the
base camp.
A
b. 1. To calculate the value of y, use the b. cos(𝜃) =
hypotenuse and the adjacent side: y = A, H
H = 5.
These are used in CAH. Write the ratio.

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 285

 y
2. Substitute the values of the angle and the cos(70°) =
pronumerals into the cosine ratio. 5

3. Make y the subject of the equation. y = 5 cos(70°)

4. Solve for y using a calculator. Write out the = 1.710
answer to 3 decimal places.
5. Round the answer to 2 decimal places. ≈ 1.71 km
6. Write the answer in sentence form. Bachar has travelled 1.71 km north of the
base camp.

Resources
Resourceseses
eWorkbook Topic 5 Workbook (worksheets, code puzzle and project) (ewbk-2005)
Interactivity Individual pathway interactivity: Calculating unknown side lengths (int-4499)

Exercise 5.5 Calculating unknown side lengths

5.5 Quick quiz 5.5 Exercise

Individual pathways
PRACTISE CONSOLIDATE MASTER
1, 4, 6, 9, 12, 13, 16, 19, 22 2, 5, 7, 10, 14, 17, 20, 23 3, 8, 11, 15, 18, 21, 24, 25

Fluency
1. a. WE12 Calculate the following. Give your answers correct to 4 decimal places.
i. sin(55°) ii. sin(11.6°)
b. Complete the table shown. Use your calculator to calculate each value of sin(𝜃). Give your answers
correct to 2 decimal places.
𝜃 0° 15° 30° 45° 60° 75° 90°
sin(𝜃)
c. Summarise the trend in these values.

2. a. Calculate the following. Give your answers correct to 4 decimal places.

i. cos(38°) ii. cos(53.71°)
b. Complete the table shown. Use your calculator to calculate each value of cos(𝜃). Give your answers
correct to 2 decimal places.
𝜃 0° 15° 30° 45° 60° 75° 90°
cos(𝜃)
c. Summarise the trend in these values.

286 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

 3. a. Calculate the following. Give your answers correct to 4 decimal places.
i. tan(18°) ii. tan(51.9°)
b. Complete the table shown. Use your calculator to calculate each value of tan(𝜃). Give your answers
correct correct to 2 decimal places.
𝜃 0° 15° 30° 45° 60° 75° 90°
tan(𝜃)
c. Determine the value of tan(89°) and tan(89.9°).
d. Comment on these results.

For questions 4–10, use the appropriate trigonometric ratios to calculate the length of the unknown side in each
of the triangles shown. Give your answers correct to 2 decimal places.
4. WE13

a. b. c.

27° z
17 m
x y
7.9 m
31°
50° 46 mm

5. a. b. c. s
78° 13.4 cm
p 29.5 m z

12°
37.8 m
22°

6. WE14

a. b. 16 cm c. q 5°
k 11 cm 52°

75°
s 16.1 cm

7. a. 5.72 km b. e c.
66° 24° 72° t
7.7 km
p
29.52 m

8. a. l b. c.

39° x
a
46.7 cm
13° 119.83 mm 0.95 km

62°

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 287

 9. a. b. 39.75 m c. 40.25 m
8°
33°
d
y
1.73 km 75°

10. a. b. c.
z
67°
m 17°
63.2 m n 312.18 mm
30°
98 cm

11. Calculate the lengths of the unknown sides in the triangles shown.
Give your answers correct to 2 decimal places.
a. b. c.
18
a b
58.73 30° 40° 38
a c
17.8°
b 42° 63°
c a
b

Understanding
12. MC Identify the value of x in the triangle shown, correct to 2 decimal places.
A. 59.65 67° 25.32
B. 23.31
C. 64.80 x
D. 27.51

13. MC Identify the value of x in the triangle shown, correct to 2 decimal places. 135.7 mm
47°
A. 99.24 mm B. 92.55 mm
C. 185.55 mm D. 198.97 mm x

14. MC Identify y in the triangle shown, correct to 2 decimal places. y

A. 47.19 B. 7.94
C. 1.37 D. 0.23 3.3
86°

15. MC Identify the value of y in the triangle shown, correct to 2 decimal places. y
25°
A. 0.76 km B. 1.79 km
C. 3.83 km D. 3.47 km 1.62 km

288 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

16. WE15 A ship that was supposed to travel due north veers off course and travels N
N 80°E (or 080°T) for a distance of 280 km instead. The ship’s path is shown in
the diagram. E
a. Calculate the distance east that the ship has travelled, in km correct to 2 decimal
places.
b. Determine the distance north that the ship has travelled, in km correct to 2 decimal
places. 280 km
80°

17. A rescue helicopter spots a missing surfer drifting out to sea on their damaged
board. The helicopter descends vertically to a height of 19 m above sea level and
drops down an emergency rope, which the surfer grabs onto. 27°
Due to the high winds, the rope swings at an angle of 27° to the vertical, as shown 19 m
in the diagram.
Calculate the length of the rope, in metres correct to 2 decimal places.

18. Walking along the coastline, Michelle (M) looks up

at an angle of 55° and sees her friend Hella (H) at the
lookout point on top of the cliff. H
If Michelle is 200 m from the cliff’s base, determine the
height of the cliff, in metres correct to .2 decimal places
(Assume Michelle and Hella are the same height.)

55°
M
200 m

Reasoning
19. Using a diagram, explain why sin(70°) = cos(20°) and cos(70°) = sin(20°). Generally speaking, explain
which cosine sin(𝜃) will be equal to.
20. One method for determining the distance across a body of water is illustrated in the diagram shown.
B

θ
A 50 m C

The required distance is AB. A surveyor moves 50 m at a right angle to point C, then uses a tool called a
transit to measure the angle 𝜃 (∠ACB).
a. If 𝜃 = 12.3°, show that the distance from A to B is 10.90 m.
b. Show that a value of 𝜃 = 63.44° gives a distance from A to B of 100 m.
c. Determine a rule that can be used to calculate the distance from A to C.

21. Explain why cos(0°) = 1 and sin(0°) = 0, but cos(90°) = 0 and sin(90°) = 1

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 289

Problem solving
22. Calculate the value of the pronumeral in each of the triangles shown in the following photos.
a. b. 6.2 m
h
29°

39°
10 m

c.

x
1.6 m

38°

23. A tile in the shape of a parallelogram has the measurements shown. Determine
122°
the tile’s width, w, to the nearest mm. 48 mm w

24. A pole is supported by two wires as shown. If the length of the lower wire is 4.3 m,
evaluate the following to 1 decimal place.
a. The length of the top wire
b. The height of the pole

13°

48°

25. The frame of a kite is built from six wooden rods as shown. Evaluate the total length of
wood used to make the frame of the kite. Give your answer to the nearest metre.

62.5°
74.1°

42 cm

290 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

 LESSON
5.6 Calculating unknown angles
LEARNING INTENTIONS
At the end of this lesson you should be able to:
• use a calculator to identify an angle from a given trigonometric ratio
• determine the given angle in a right-angled triangle when given two side lengths.

5.6.1 Inverse trigonometric ratios

eles-4760
• When we are given an angle, the sine, cosine and tangent functions let us determine the ratio
of side lengths, but what if we only know the side lengths and we want to determine the angle in a
right-angled triangle?
• The inverse trigonometric functions allow us to calculate angles using sine, cosine or tangent ratios.
• We have seen that sin(30°) = 0.5. This means that 30° is the inverse sine of 0.5. This is written as
sin−1 (0.5) = 30°.

Inverse trigonometic ratios

Sine function Inverse sine function
sin (30°) = 0.5 sin−1 (0.5) = 30°

• When reading the expression sin−1 (x) out loud, we say, ‘the inverse sine of x’.
• When reading the expression cos−1 (x) out loud, we say, ‘the inverse cosine of x’.
• When reading the expression tan−1 (x) out loud, we say, ‘the inverse tangent of x’.
• You can calculate inverse trigonometric ratios using the SIN−1 , COS−1 and TAN−1 buttons on
your calculator.

Digital technology
−1
1. Use your calculator to determine sin(30°), then determine the inverse sine (sin ) of the answer. Choose
another angle and do the same thing.
2. Now determine cos(30°) and then determine the inverse cosine (cos−1 ) of the answer. Choose another
angle and do the same thing.
3. Lastly, determine tan(45°) and then determine the inverse tangent (tan−1 ) of the answer. Choose another
angle and do the same thing.
The fact that sin and sin−1 cancel each other out is useful when solving equations like the following.
Consider: sin(𝜃) = 0.3.
Take the inverse sine of both sides
sin−1 (sin(𝜃)) = sin−1 (0.3)
𝜃 = sin−1 (0.3)
−1
Consider: sin (x) = 15°.

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 291

 Take the sine of both sides.
sin(sin−1 (x)) = sin(15°)
x = sin(15°)
Similarly, cos(𝜃) = 0.522 means that
𝜃 = cos−1 (0.522)
and tan(𝜃) = 1.25 means that
𝜃 = tan−1 (1.25).

WORKED EXAMPLE 16 Evaluating inverse cosine values

Evaluate cos−1 (0.3678), correct to the nearest degree.

THINK WRITE

1. Set your calculator to degree mode and make cos−1 (0.3678) = 68.4
the calculation.
2. Round the answer to the nearest whole number and ≈ 68°
include the degree symbol in your answer.

TI | THINK WRITE/DRAW CASIO | THINK WRITE/DRAW

Ensure your calculator Ensure your calculator is
is set to Degree mode. set to Degree mode. On
In a new problem, on a the Main screen, complete
Calculator page, complete the entry line as:
the entry line as: cos−1 (0.3678)
solve cos−1 (0.3678) Then press EXE.
Then press ENTER.

cos−1 (0.3678) = 68° (to the nearest

degree)

cos−1 (0.3678) = 68° (to the

nearest degree)

WORKED EXAMPLE 17 Determining angles using inverse trigonometric ratios

Determine the size of angle 𝜃 in each of the following. Give answers correct to the nearest degree.
a. sin(𝜃) = 0.6543 b. tan(𝜃) = 1.745

THINK WRITE
a. 1. 𝜃 is the inverse sine of 0.6543. a. sin(𝜃) = 0.6543
𝜃 = sin−1 (0.6543)

2. Make the calculation using your calculator’s = 40.8

inverse sine function and record the answer.
3. Round the answer to the nearest degree and ≈ 41°
include the degree symbol in your answer.

292 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

 b. 1. 𝜃 is the inverse tangent of 1.745. b. tan(𝜃) = 1.745
2. Make the calculation using your calculator’s 𝜃 = tan−1 (1.745)
inverse tangent function and record the answer. = 60.18
3. Round the answer to the nearest degree and ≈ 60°
include the degree symbol in your answer.

5.6.2 Determining the angle when two sides are known

eles-4761
• If the lengths of any two sides of a right-angled triangle are known, it is possible to determine an angle
using inverse sine, inverse cosine or inverse tangent.

WORKED EXAMPLE 18 Determining an unknown angle when two sides are known

Determine the value of 𝜃 in the triangle shown. Give your answer correct to the nearest degree.

63

θ
12

THINK WRITE

1. Label the given sides. These are used in CAH.

Write out the ratio.
Hypotenuse
63

θ
12
Adjacent
A
cos(𝜃) =
H

12
2. Substitute the given values into the cosine ratio. cos(𝜃) =
63
( )
12 −1 12
3. 𝜃 is the inverse cosine of . 𝜃 = cos
63 63
4. Evaluate. = 79.0
5. Round the answer to the nearest degree. ≈ 79°

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 293

5.6.3 Relating the tangent of the angle to the gradient
O
• tan(𝜃) =
A

Opposite (altitude)

θ
Adjacent (base)

• The gradient is given as:

Rise
Gradient (m) =
Run

Rise

θ
Run

• Comparing the two right-angled triangles, we can see:

Opposite (Altitude) = Rise
and
Adjacent (Base) = Run
• Therefore, we can say that:

O Rise
tan(𝜃) = = =m
A Run

Therefore, tan(𝜃) = m
Where m is the gradient.

WORKED EXAMPLE 19 Solving word problems using the inverse tangent

Roberta goes water skiing on the Hawkesbury River. She is going to

try out a new ramp. The ramp rises 1.5 m above the water level and
has a length of 6.4 m. 1.5 m
Determine the magnitude (size) of the angle that the ramp makes
with the water’s surface. Give your answer to the nearest degree. 6.4 m
Hence determine the gradient of the ramp to 2 decimal places.

THINK WRITE
1. Draw a simple diagram, showing the known
Opposite
lengths and the angle to be found. 1.5
θ
6.4
Adjacent

294 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

 O
2. Label the given sides. These are used in TOA. tan(𝜃) =
Write out the ratio. A
1.5
3. Substitute the values of the pronumerals into tan(𝜃) =
the tangent ratio. 6.4
( )
1.5 1.5
4. 𝜃 is the inverse inverse tangent of . 𝜃 = tan−1
6.4 6.4
5. Evaluate. = 13.19
6. Round the answer to the nearest degree. ≈ 13°
7. Write the answer in words. The ramp makes an angle of 13°
with the water’s surface.
8. Since m = tan(𝜃) and 𝜃 = 13.19°. m = tan(𝜃)
Substitute the angle into the equation to determine = tan(13.19°)
the gradient. = 0.23
9. Write the answer. The gradient of the ramp is 0.23.

Resources
Resourceseses
eWorkbook Topic 5 Workbook (worksheets, code puzzle and project) (ewbk-2005)
Interactivities Individual pathway interactivity: Calculating unknown angles (int-4500)
Finding the angle when two sides are known (int-6046)

Exercise 5.6 Calculating unknown angles

5.6 Quick quiz 5.6 Exercise

Individual pathways
PRACTISE CONSOLIDATE MASTER
1, 4, 7, 10, 11, 14, 18, 21 2, 5, 8, 12, 15, 17, 19, 22 3, 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 24

Fluency
1. WE16 Calculate each of the following, rounding your answers to the nearest degree.
−1
a. sin (0.6294) b. cos−1 (0.3110) c. tan−1 (0.7409)

2. Calculate each of the following, rounding your answers to the nearest degree.
−1
a. tan−1 (1.3061) b. sin (0.9357) c. cos−1 (0.3275)

3. Calculate each of the following, rounding your answers to the nearest degree.
−1
a. cos−1 (0.1928) b. tan−1 (4.1966) c. sin (0.2554)
4. WE17 Determine the size of the angle in each of the following, rounding your answers to the nearest degree.
a. sin(𝜃) = 0.3214 b. sin(𝜃) = 0.6752 c. sin(𝛽) = 0.8235 d. cos(𝛽) = 0.9351

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 295

 5. Determine the size of the angle in each of the following, rounding your answers to the nearest degree.
a. cos(𝛼) = 0.6529 b. cos(𝛼) = 0.1722 c. tan(𝜃) = 0.7065 d. tan(a) = 1

6. Determine the size of the angle in each of the following, rounding your answers to the nearest degree.
a. tan(b) = 0.876 b. sin(c) = 0.3936 c. cos(𝜃) = 0.5241 d. tan(𝛼) = 5.6214

7. WE18 Determine the value of 𝜃 in each of the following triangles, rounding your answers to the

nearest degree.
a. b. θ c. 16.54
θ
72 60
85 15.16
θ
49

8. Determine the value of 𝜃 in each of the following triangles, rounding your answers to the nearest degree.
a. b. c. 6.9
41.32 38.75 θ
12.61
θ 21.8

θ
12.61

9. Determine the value of 𝜃 in each of the following triangles, rounding your answers to the nearest degree.
a. 26 b. 21.72 c.
θ
θ
76.38
28.95
105.62 78.57

10. MC If cos(𝜃) = 0.8752, identify the value of 𝜃, correct to 2 decimal places.

A. 61.07° B. 41.19° C. 25.84° D. 28.93°

11. MC If sin(𝜃) = 0.5530, identify the value of 𝜃, correct to 2 decimal places.

A. 56.43° B. 33.57° C. 28.94° D. 36.87°

12. MC Identify the value of 𝜃 in the triangle shown, correct to 2 decimal places.
A. 41.30°
B. 28.55° 136.21
C. 48.70° 119.65
D. 61.45°
θ

13. MC Identify the value of 𝜃 in the triangle shown, correct to 2 decimal places.
θ
A. 42.10° 785.2
B. 64.63°
C. 25.37° 709.5
D. 47.90°

296 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

Understanding
2.54 m
14. A piece of fabric measuring 2.54 m by 1.5 m has been printed with parallel
diagonal stripes. Determine the angle each diagonal makes with the length of
the fabric. 1.5 m
Give your answer in degrees correct to 2 decimal places.

15. WE19 Danny Dingo is perched on top of a 20-metre-high cliff. They are

watching Erwin Emu, who is feeding on a bush that stands 8 m away from the
base of the cliff. Danny has purchased a flying contraption that they hope will
help them capture Erwin.
Calculate the angle to the cliff that Danny should follow downwards to catch
their prey. 20 m
Give your answer in degrees correct to 2 decimal places.

8m

16. a. Complete the table shown.

x 0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0
y = cos (x)−1
90° 60° 0°
b. Plot the table from part a on graph paper. Alternatively you can use a spreadsheet program or a suitable
calculator.
17. A zipline runs from an observation platform 400 m above sea level to a landing platform on the ground
1200 metres away.
Calculate the angle that the zipline makes with the ground at the landing platform and hence determine the
gradient of the zipline.
Give your answers correct to 2 decimal places.

Reasoning
18. Safety guidelines for wheelchair access ramps used to state that the gradient of a ramp had to be in the
ratio 1 : 20.
a. Using this ratio, show that the angle that any ramp needs to make with the horizontal is closest to 3°.
b. New regulations have changed the guidelines about the ratio of the gradient of a ramp. Now the angle the
ramp makes with the horizontal must be closest to 6°.
Explain why, using this new angle size, the new ratio could be 1 : 9.5.
19. Jayani and Lee are camping with their friends Awer and Susie. Both couples have tents that are 2 m high.
The top of each 2 m tent pole has to be tied with a piece of rope so that the pole stays upright. To make sure
this rope doesn’t trip anyone, Jayani and Lee decide that the angle between the rope and the ground should
be 60°.
a. Determine the length of the rope that Jayani and Lee need to run from the top of their tent pole to the
ground. Give your answer in metres correct to 2 decimal places.
b. Awer and Susie set up their tent further into the camping ground. They want to secure their tent pole using
a piece of rope that they know is somewhere between 2 and 3 metres long.
i. Explain why Awer and Susie’s rope will have to be longer than 2 m.
ii. Show that the minimum angle Awer and Susie’s rope will make with the ground will be 41.8°.

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 297

 O A sin(𝜃)
20. Use the formulas sin(𝜃) = and cos(𝜃) = to prove that tan(𝜃) = .
H H cos(𝜃)

Problem solving
21. Calculate the value of the pronumeral in each of the following, in degrees correct to 2 decimal places.
a. b.

5.4 cm

1.2 m
12 cm θ

0.75 m
θ

c.

0.75 m
x 1.8 m

22. A family is building a patio extension for their

house. One section of the new patio will have a
gable roof. A similar structure is shown, with the
6m
planned post heights and the span of the roof
given.
To allow more light in, the family wants the peak
(the highest point) of the roof to be at least 5 m 3.2 m
above ground level.
According to building regulations, the slope of the
roof (the angle that the sloping edge makes with
the horizontal) must be 22°.
a. Use trigonometry to calculate whether the roof would be high enough if the angle was 22°.
b. Using trigonometry, determine the size of the obtuse angle formed at the peak of the roof.

23. The height of a square-based prism is twice its base length. Calculate the angle the diagonal of the prism
makes with the diagonal of the base.

298 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

 24. A series of seven shapes are marked out as shown inside a square with a side length
of 10 cm. If the dots marked on the diagram represent the midpoints of the square’s
sides, determine the dimensions of each of the seven smaller shapes.

LESSON
5.7 Angles of elevation and depression
LEARNING INTENTIONS
At the end of this lesson you should be able to:
• use angles of depression and elevation to determine heights and distances
• use trigonometric ratios to determine angles of depression and elevation.

5.7.1 Angles of elevation and depression

eles-4762
• When looking up towards an object, the angle of elevation is the angle between the horizontal line and the
line of vision.

io n
vis
e of
Lin
Angle of elevation
Horizontal

• When looking down at an object, the angle of depression is the angle between the horizontal line and the
line of vision.
Horizontal
Angle of depression
Li
ne
of
vis
ion

• Angles of elevation and depression are always measured from horizontal lines.
• For any two objects, A and B, the angle of elevation of B, as seen from A, is equal to the angle of
depression of A, as seen from B.

B
Angle of depression θ
of A from B

Angle of elevation
θ of B from A
A

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 299

 WORKED EXAMPLE 20 Determining height using angle of elevation

At a point 10 m from the base of a tree, the angle of elevation of the top of the tree is 38°. Calculate the
height of the tree. Give your answer to the nearest centimetre.

THINK WRITE
1. Draw a simple diagram to represent the situation.
The angle of elevation is 38° from the horizontal.

h
Opposite

38°
10
Adjacent
h
2. Label the given sides of the triangle. These sides are used tan(38°) =
in TOA. Write out the ratio. 10
3. Multiply both sides by 10. 10 tan(38°) = h
4. Calculate the answer, correct to 4 decimal places. h = 7.8129 m
5. Convert metres into centimetres by multiplying the height ≈ 7.8129 × 100 = 781.29 cm
of the tree by 100.
6. Write the answer in words to the nearest centimetre. The tree is 781 cm tall.

WORKED EXAMPLE 21 Calculating an angle of depression

A 30-metre-tall lighthouse stands on top of a cliff that is 180 m high. Determine the angle of
depression (𝜃) of a ship (to the nearest degree) from the top of the lighthouse if the ship is 3700 m
from the bottom of the cliff.

θ
Angle of depression 30 m

180 m

3700 m

THINK WRITE
1. Draw a simple diagram to represent the situation. T
θ
The height of the triangle is 180 + 30 = 210 m. Draw a
horizontal line from the top of the triangle and mark the
Opposite
angle of depression, 𝜃. Mark the alternate angle as well.
210

θ
S 3700 C
Adjacent

300 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

 O
2. Label the given sides of the triangle. These sides are tan(𝜃) =
used in TOA. Write out the ratio. A

210
3. Substitute the given values into the ratio. tan(𝜃) =
3700
( )
210 210
4. 𝜃 is the inverse tangent of . 𝜃 = tan−1
3700 3700
5. Calculate the answer. = 3.24
6. Round the answer to the nearest degree. ≈ 3°
7. Write the answer in words. The angle of depression of the ship from the
top of the lighthouse is 3°.

Resources
Resourceseses
eWorkbook Topic 5 Workbook (worksheets, code puzzle and project) (ewbk-2005)
Interactivities Individual pathway interactivity: Angles of elevation and depression (int-4501)
Finding the angle of elevation and angle of depression (int-6047)

Exercise 5.7 Angles of elevation and depression

5.7 Quick quiz 5.7 Exercise

Individual pathways
PRACTISE CONSOLIDATE MASTER
1, 4, 6, 9, 12 2, 5, 7, 10, 13 3, 8, 11, 14, 15, 16

Fluency
1. WE20 A lifesaver standing on their tower 3 m above the ground spots a swimmer experiencing difficulty. The

angle of depression of the swimmer from the lifesaver is 12°.

Calculate how far the swimmer is from the lifesaver’s tower. Give your answer in metres correct to
2 decimal places.

12°

3m

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 301

2. From the top of a 50-metre-high lookout, the angle of depression of a camp site that is level with the base
of the lookout is 37°. Calculate how far the camp site is from the base of the lookout. Give your answer in
metres correct to 2 decimal places.

50 m

3. Building specifications require the angle of elevation of any ramp constructed 1m

for public use to be less than 3°.
7m
A new shopping centre is constructing its access ramps with a ratio of 7 m
horizontal length to 1 m vertical height.
Calculate the angle of elevation of these new ramps, in degrees correct to
2 decimal places.
Determine whether the new ramps meet the specifications required by ramps
intended for public use.
Hence, calculate the gradient of the ramp to 2 decimal places.
Understanding
4. From a point on the ground 60 m away from a tree, the angle of elevation of
the top of the tree is 35°.
a. Draw a labelled diagram to represent this situation.
b. Calculate the height of the tree to the nearest metre.

5. Miriam wants to take a video of her daughter Alexandra’s first attempts at

crawling. When Alexandra lies on the floor and looks up at her mother, the
angle of elevation is 17°.
If Alexandra is 5.2 m away from her mother, calculate how tall Miriam is.
Give your answer in metres correct to 1 decimal place.
17°
5.2 m

6. WE21 Hien, who is 1.95 m tall, measures the length of the shadow he casts along the ground as 0.98 m.
Determine the angle of depression of the sun’s rays to the nearest degree.

θ
θ = angle of depression

1.95 m

302 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

7. A ladder is 3.8 m tall and leaning against a wall.
a. Determine the angle the ladder makes with the ground if it reaches 2.1 m up the wall. Give your answer to
the nearest degree.
b. Determine how far the foot of the ladder is from the wall. Give your answer to the nearest metre.

3.8 m 2.1 m

8. MC A lighthouse is 78 metres tall. The angle of elevation to the top of the lighthouse from point B, which is

level with the base of the lighthouse, is 60°. Select the correct diagram for this information.
A. B. C. D.

78 m 60°
78 m 78 m

60° 60°
60°
B B B B
78 m

Reasoning
9. Con and John are practising shots at goal. Con is 3.6 m away from
the goal and John is 4.2 m away, as shown in the diagram.
2.44 m
If the height of the goal post is 2.44 m, determine the maximum Con
angle of elevation that each player can kick the ball in order to score
a goal. Give your answers to the nearest degree.
3.6 m
4.2 m

John

10. Lifesaver Sami is sitting in a tower 10 m from the water’s edge and 4 m above sea level. They spot some
dolphins playing near a marker at sea directly in front of them. The marker the dolphins are swimming near
is 20 m from the water’s edge.
a. Draw a diagram to represent this information.
b. Show that the angle of depression of Sami’s view of the dolphins, correct to 1 decimal place, is 7.6°.
c. As the dolphins swim towards Sami, determine whether the angle of depression would increase or
decrease. Justify your answer in terms of the tangent ratios.
11. A pair of office buildings are 100 m and 75 m high. From the top of North
side
the north side of the taller building, the angle of depression to the 20°
South
top of the south side of the shorter building is 20°, as shown. side
Show that the horizontal distance between the north side of the taller
building and the south side of the shorter building is closest to 69 m. 100 m
75 m

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 303

Problem solving
12. From a rescue helicopter 80 m above the ocean, the angles of depression of two shipwreck survivors are 40°
and 60° respectively. The two survivors and the helicopter are in line with each other.
a. Draw a labelled diagram to represent the situation.
b. Calculate the distance between the two survivors. Give your answer to the nearest metre.

13. Rouka was hiking in the mountains when she spotted an eagle sitting up in a tree. The angle of elevation of
her view of the eagle was 35°. She then walked 20 m towards the tree. From her new position, her angle of
elevation was 50°. The distance between the eagle and the ground was 35.5 m.
a. Draw a labelled diagram to represent this information.
b. If Rouka’s eyes are located 9 cm below the very top of her head, calculate how tall she is. Give your
answer in metres, correct to the nearest centimetre.
14. A lookout in a lighthouse tower can see two ships approaching the coast. Their angles of depression are 25°
and 30°. If the ships are 100 m apart, show that the height of the lighthouse, to the nearest metre, is
242 metres.
15. As shown in the diagram, at a certain distance from an office C
building, the angle of elevation to the top of the building is 60°.
From a distance 12 m further back, the angle of elevation to the top
of the building is 45°. Show that the building is 28.4 m high.
h Building
16. A gum tree stands in a courtyard in the middle of a group of office
buildings. A group of three Year 9 students, Jackie, Pho and Theo,
measure the angle of elevation from three different positions. They 45° 60°
are unable to measure the distance to the base of the tree because of
A 12 m D d B
the steel tree guard around the base. This diagram shows the angles
of elevation and the distances measured.

Not to scale

Height from
ground to eye
41° β α level

Theo 12 m x Pho 15 m Jackie

15 tan(𝛼)
a. Show that x = , where x is the distance, in metres, from the base of the tree to
tan(𝛽) − tan(𝛼)
Pho’s position.
b. The students estimate the tree to be 15 m taller than them. Pho measured the angle of elevation to be 72°.
If these measurements are correct, calculate Jackie’s angle of elevation, correct to the nearest degree.
c. Theo did some calculations and determined that the tree was only about 10.4 m taller than them. Jackie
claims that Theo’s calculation of 10.4 m is incorrect.
i. Decide if Jackie’s claim is correct. Show how Theo calculated a height of 10.4 m.
ii. If the height of the tree was actually 15 metres above the height of the students, determine the
horizontal distance Theo should have used in his calculations.
Write your answer to the nearest centimetre.

304 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

LESSON
5.8 Review
5.8.1 Topic summary

Trigonometric ratios Inverse trigonometric ratios

• For a given angle, θ, in a right-angled • These ratios can be used to determine the size of
triangle, the trigonometric ratios sine, cosine and a given angle when given two side lengths.
tangent are constant. H
O O
opposite (O) θ • sin–1 – = θ
• sin(θ) = ––– H
hypotenuse (H) O
H θ
adjacent (A) A =θ
• cos–1 –
θ A
• cos(θ) = ––– SOH A
H
hypotenuse (H)
O
opposite (O)
• tan(θ) = ––– TOA • tan–1 – = θ
adjacent (A) CAH A
• To remember these ratios, use the mnemonic
SOH CAH TOA (Sine Opposite Hypotenuse,
Cos Adjacent Hypotenuse, Tan Opposite Adjacent).

PYTHAGORAS AND
TRIGONOMETRY
Pythagoras’ theorem

Pythagoras’ theorem states the relationship between the lengths of the sides of
right-angled triangles. Mathematically it is written as:

Hy
• a2 + b2 = c2, where c is the length of the hypotenuse (the longest side) and
po
ten
Opposite (O)

a and b are the lengths of the other sides.

us
e(
• This rule can be applied to any right-angled triangle. b c
• The hypotenuse is always located opposite the right angle. H)
• A Pythagorean triad is a group of any three whole numbers that satisfy
Pythagoras’ theorem. a θ
e.g. {3, 4, 5} is a Pythagorean triad because 32 = 9, 42 = 16 and 52 = 25,
and 9 + 16 = 25. Adjacent (A)

Angles of elevation and depression

• When looking upwards at an object, the angle of elevation n

is the angle between the horizontal and the upward line of sight. isio
o fv
e
Lin Angle of elevation
Horizontal
• When looking downwards at an object, the angle of depression is Horizontal
the angle between the horizontal and the downward line of sight. Li Angle of depression
ne
of
vis
ion

• The angle of elevation when looking from A to B is equal B

Angle of depression θ
to the angle of depression when looking from B to A.
of A from B Angle of elevation
θ of B from A
A

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 305

5.8.2 Success criteria
Tick the column to indicate that you have completed the lesson and how well you have understood it using the
traffic light system.
(Green: I understand; Yellow: I can do it with help; Red: I do not understand)

Lesson Success criteria

5.2 I can identify the hypotenuse in a right-angled triangle.

I can recall Pythagoras’ theorem.

I can apply Pythagoras’ theorem to calculate unknown side lengths.

5.3 I can divide composite shapes into simple shapes.

I can calculate unknown side lengths in composite shapes and irregular

triangles.

I can use Pythagoras’ theorem to solve problems in 3D contexts.

5.4 I can identify the hypotenuse, opposite and adjacent sides of a right-
angled triangle with respect to a given angle.

I can use the ratios of a triangle’s sides to calculate the sine, cosine and
tangent of an angle.

5.5 I can use a calculator to calculate the trigonometric ratios for a given
angle.

I can determine the lengths of unknown sides in a right-angled triangle

given an angle and one known side length.

5.6 I can use a calculator to identify an angle from a given trigonometric

ratio.

I can determine the given angle in a right-angled triangle when given two
side lengths.

5.7 I can use angles of depression and elevation to determine heights and
distances.

I can use trigonometric ratios to determine angles of depression and

elevation.

306 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

5.8.3 Project
The Great Pyramid of Giza
The Great Pyramid of Giza, in Egypt, was built over 4500 years ago. It was constructed using
approximately 2 300 000 rectangular granite blocks. This construction took over 20 years to complete.
When it was finished, one side of its square base was 230 m long and its vertical height was 146.5 m.

1. Each side of the Great Pyramid of Giza has a triangular face. Use Pythagoras’ theorem and the
dimensions provided to calculate the height of each triangular face. Give your answer correct
to 2 decimal places.
2. Special finishing blocks were added to the ends of each row of stones that were used to make the
pyramid. These finishing blocks gave each triangular face a smooth, flat finish. Calculate the area of each
face of the pyramid.

Finishing blocks

3. The edges of the pyramid join two of its faces and run all the way from the ground to the pyramid’s tip.
Use Pythagoras’ theorem to calculate the length of these edges.

Wall braces
Builders use braces to strengthen wall frames. These braces typically run between the top and bottom
horizontal sections of the wall frame.

A distant view of a row of tourist camels walking in front of all of the Egyptian Giza Pyramids together in Cairo, Egypt. Horizontal copy space

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 307

 Building industry standards require that the acute angle that a brace makes with the horizontal sections
needs to be somewhere between 37° and 53°. Sometimes more than one brace may be required if the frame
is particularly long, as shown in the diagram.

Br
Br

ac
e

ce

ac
ac

e
a
e

Br

e
Br
ac
Br

37° to 53°

1. Cut out some thin strips of cardboard and arrange them in the shape of a rectangle to represent a wall
frame. Place pins at the corners of the rectangle to hold the strips together.
Notice that the frame can easily be moved out of shape. Attach a brace to this frame according to the
building industry standards discussed.
Write a brief comment to describe what effect this brace has on the frame.
2. Investigate what happens to the length of the brace as the acute angle it creates with the base is increased
from 37° to 53°.
3. Use your findings from question 2 to calculate the angle that requires the shortest brace and the angle
that requires the longest brace.
Most modern houses are constructed with a ceiling height (the height of the walls from floor to ceiling) of
2.4 m. Use this information to help with your calculations for the following questions.
4. Assume you are working with a section of wall that is 3.5 m long. Calculate the length of the longest
possible brace.
Draw a diagram and show your working to support your answer.
5. Calculate the minimum wall length for which two braces are required. Draw a diagram and show your
working to support your answer.
6. Some older houses have ceilings that are over 2.4. m high. Answer the questions in 4 and 5 for a house
with a ceiling that is 3 m high.
Draw diagrams and show your workings to support your answers.
7. Take the measurements of a wall with no windows at your school or at home. Draw a scale drawing of
the frame of this wall and show where the brace or braces for this wall might lie.
Calculate the length and angle of each brace.

Resources
Resourceseses
eWorkbook Topic 5 Workbook (worksheets, code puzzle and project) (ewbk-2005)
Interactivities Crossword (int-0703)
Sudoku puzzle (int-3206)

308 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

Exercise 5.8 Review questions

Fluency
1. MC Identify the length of the third side in the triangle shown.
A. 34.71 m B. 2.96 m 394 cm
C. 5.89 m D. 1722 cm
4380 mm

2. MC Select the most accurate measure for the length of the third side in the

triangle shown.
A. 4.83 m B. 23.3 cm
C. 3.94 m D. 4826 mm 5.6 m
2840 mm

3. MC Select the value of x in this figure.

A. 5.4 B. 7.5 x
C. 10.1 D. 10.3 5

2 7

4. MC Identify which of the following is not a Pythagorean triad.

A. 3, 4, 5 B. 6, 8, 10
C. 5, 12, 13 D. 2, 3, 4

5. MC Identify which of the following correctly names the sides and angle of the A
triangle shown. θ
A. ∠C = 𝜃, AB = adjacent side, AC = hypotenuse, BC = opposite side
B. ∠C = 𝜃, AB = opposite side, BC = hypotenuse, AC = adjacent side
C. ∠A = 𝜃, AB = opposite side, AC = hypotenuse, BC = adjacent side
D. ∠A = 𝜃, AB = adjacent side, AC = hypotenuse, BC = opposite side

B C

6. MC Select which of the following statements is correct.

A. sin(60°) = cos(60°) B. cos(25°) = cos(65°)
C. cos(60°) = sin(30°) D. sin(70°) = cos(70°)

7. MC Identify the value of x in the triangle shown, correct to 2 decimal places.

16.31
52°

A. 26.49 B. 10.04 C. 12.85 D. 20.70

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 309

 8. MC Identify which of the following could be used to calculate the value of

x in the triangle shown. 29°

172.1 172.1 x
A. x = B. x =
cos(29°) sin(29°)
C. x = 172.1 × sin(29°) D. x = 172.1 × cos(29°)

172.1

9. MC Identify which of the following could be used to calculate the value of

x in the triangle shown. 67° x

115.3 115.3
A. x = B. x =
sin(23°) cos(67°)
115.3
115.3
C. x = 115.3° × sin(67°) D. x =
cos(23°)

10. MC Identify which of the following could be used to calculate the value of
x in the triangle shown. 28.74
28.74
A. x = B. x = 28.74 × sin(17°) 17°
cos(17°)
x
C. x = 28.74 × cos(17°) D. x = 28.74 × cos(73°)

11. MC Select which of the following is closest to the value of tan−1 (1.8931).
A. 62° B. 0.0331° C. 1.08° D. 69°

12. MC Select the value of 𝜃 in the triangle shown, correct to 2 decimal places.

12
6

A. 40.89° B. 60° C. 35.27° D. 30°

13. Calculate x, correct to 2 decimal places.

a. 7.2 m b. c. 2.89 m

x 318 cm
8.2 cm
8.4 m x
x

9.3 cm

310 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

14. Calculate x, correct to 2 decimal places.
a. b. 117 mm c. t
x 10.3 cm
123.1 cm 82 mm x 117 mm

48.7 cm

15. The top of a kitchen table measures 160 cm by 90 cm. A beetle walks diagonally across the table from
one corner to the other. Calculate how far it walks. Give your answer in cm correct to 2 decimal places.

16. A broom leans against a wall. The broom is 1.5 m long and reaches 1.2 m up the wall. Calculate how
far the bottom of the broom is from the base of the wall.
Write your answer in metres correct to 1 decimal place.

17. Calculate the unknown values in the figures shown. Give your answers correct to 2 decimal places.
a. b.

17 20 l
x 13

8 4
k 6

18. A beach athletics event involves three swimming legs and a run along the beach back to the start of the
first swimming leg. Some of the distances of the race course are shown.
Calculate the total distance covered in the race, correct to the nearest metre.
75 m
Beach

Sea

100 m

250 m Witch broom object as an old magical besom for a wicked wizard as a halloween graphic element 3D illustration.

19. True or False? The following are Pythagorean triads.

a. 15, 36, 39 b. 50, 51, 10 c. 50, 48, 14

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 311

 20. Label the unlabelled sides of the following right-angled triangles using the symbol 𝜃 and the words
‘hypotenuse’, ‘adjacent’ and ‘opposite’ where appropriate.
a. b. c. θ
θ

t
en
jac
Opposite

Ad
21. Write a trigonometric ratio, in fraction form, that connects the lengths of the given sides and the size of
the given angle in the following triangles.
Use your ratio to then calculate the size of the angle, correct to the nearest degree.
a. b. 5 c.
β 11

7 γ
12 13

θ
6

22. Use a calculator to evaluate the following trigonometric ratios, correct to 4 decimal places.
a. sin(54°) b. cos(39°) c. tan(12°)

23. Calculate the values of the pronumerals in each of the following triangles. Give your answers correct to
2 decimal places.
a. b. c.
30 36
y
x 1.87 m
45° z
15° 43°

d. e. f. 631 mm
32°
x 29 x
x
41° 6.82 km 5°

24. Evaluate each of the following, correct to the nearest degree.

−1
a. sin (0.1572) b. cos−1 (0.8361) c. tan−1 (0.5237)

25. Calculate the size of the angle in each of the following. Give your answers correct to the nearest degree.
a. sin(𝜃) = 0.5321 b. cos(𝜃) = 0.7071
c. tan(𝜃) = 0.8235 d. cos(𝛼) = 0.3729
e. tan(𝛼) = 0.5774 f. sin(𝛽) = 0.8660
g. cos(𝛽) = 0.5050 h. tan(𝛽) = 8.3791

26. A tree is 6.7 m tall. At a certain time of the day it casts a shadow that is 1.87 m long. Determine
the angle of depression of the rays of the sun at that time.
Write your answer in degrees rounded to 2 decimal places.

312 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

Problem solving
27. A 10-metre-high flagpole stands in the corner of a rectangular park that
10 m
measures 240 m by 150 m. 240 m A
a. Determine the following, in metres correct to 2 decimal places.
i. The length of the diagonal of the park 150 m
ii. The distance from A to the top of the pole
iii. The distance from B to the top of the pole B
b. A bird flies from the top of the pole to the middle of the park. Determine far the bird has to fly to
reach this point, in metres correct to 2 decimal places.

28. Calculate the perimeters of the shapes shown, round your answers to 2 decimal places.
a. 20 cm

8 cm
14 cm

15 cm

b.
28 m

22 m

7m

4m

29. Evaluate the length of the shortest distance between points B and D inside the figure shown. Write your
answer in metres correct to 2 decimal places.
B 12 m

30 m
40 m

25 m
10 m
D

30. A pair of towers stand 30 m apart. From the top of tower A, the angle of depression of the base of tower
B is 60° and the angle of depression of the top of tower B is 30°.
Rounding your answer to the nearest metre, calculate the height of tower B.

31. Calculate the angles of a triangle whose sides can be described using the Pythagorean triad 3, 4, 5.
Round your answers to the nearest degree.
32. A stack of chairs is 2 m tall. The stack needs to fit through a doorway that is 1.8 m high. The maximum
angle that the stack of chairs can be safely tilted is 25° to the vertical.
Based on this information, determine if it is safe to try to move the stack of chairs through the doorway.

33. Evaluate the side length of the largest square that can be drawn within a circle that has a radius of r.
Give your answer as a surd.

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 313

 34. A Biltmore stick is used by foresters to measure the height and diameter of a tree. The diagram below
shows how a Biltmore stick was used to measure the height of a tree.

Merchantable height

2nd line of sight

35.24 m

1st line of sight θ

Stump height
1.80 m

20.12 m

A Biltmore stick is usually used by standing 20.12 m from the base of a tree. If the Biltmore stick reads
35.24 m to merchantable height (the height to the top of the trunk of the tree) and 1.80 m to the stump
height (the height from eye level down to the base of the tree stump), as per the diagram.

a. Determine the angle of elevation to the merchantable height, in degrees correct to 2 decimal places.
b. If the average diameter of the tree is 0.8 m, approximate the surface area of bark that could be taken
off the tree to be used by First Nation artists to produce paintings.
Write your answer in square metres correct to 2 decimal places.

To test your understanding and knowledge of this topic go to your learnON title at
[Link] and complete the post-test.

314 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

Answers 11. a.
c.
176.16 cm
2.62 km
b.
d.
147.40 cm
432.12 m
Topic 5 Pythagoras and 12. 2.60 m
13. The length of the diagonal can be calculated using
trigonometry Pythagoras’ theorem.
5.1 Pre-test c2 = a2 + b2
1. 5 cm c2 = 2602 + 4802
2. 30.96 m c2 = 298
3. B √ 000
c = 298 000 = 546 m
4. a+ b The length of the triangular circuit is
5. C 260 m + 480 m + 546 m = 1286 m.
6. D 5 laps of this circuit is 5 × 1286 = 6430 m.
7. D 5 laps of the regular circuit is
5 × (260 + 260 + 480 + 480) = 7400 m.
8. a. 3.47 cm b. 5.14 mm
7400 m − 6430 m = 970 m.
9. a. 0.8870 b. 0.9778 c. 3.7062 14. The horizontal distance is 11.74 m, so the gradient is 0.21,
10. D which is within the limits.
11. 23.4° 15. a.
12. A
13. D
14. 7.31 m
15. 48.53 m 1.2 m

5.2 Pythagoras’ theorem

1. a. i. r
2 2 2
ii. r = p + s
b. i. x 80 cm
2 2
ii. x = y + z b. 89.44 cm
c. i. k c. Yes, she can reach the hook from the top step.
2 2 2
ii. k = m + w 16. a. i. {9, 40, 41}
d. i. FU {11, 60, 61}
ii.
2 2 2
ii. (FU) = (VU) + (VF) iii. {13, 84, 85}
2. a. 7.86 b. 33.27 c. 980.95 iv. {29, 420, 421}
3. a. x = 12.49 b. p = 11.76 cm b. The middle number and the large number are
c. f = 5.14 m d. c = 97.08 mm one number apart.
4. 10.2 cm 17. The following figure shows the first three triangles, with the
√ √ √
5. a. No b. No values of 2, 3 and 4.
c. Yes d. Yes
e. No f. Yes
6. a.

4.2 cm

3.8 cm
b. 5.66 cm 0 1 2 3 2 3
7. a.
5.3 Applications of Pythagoras’ theorem
124 mm
1. 12.08 cm
2. a. k = 16.40 m b. x = 6.78 cm c. g = 4.10 km
3. a. x = 4, y = 9.17 b. x = 6.93, y = 5.80
8.5 cm
c. x = 13, y = 15.20 d. x = 2.52, y = 4.32
b. 90.28 mm
8. B
9. C
10. B

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 315

 4. a. 4 3 4
5. sin(𝜃) = , cos(𝜃) = , tan(𝜃) =
5 5 3
6.8 mm 6.8 mm i h i
6. sin(𝛼) = , cos(𝛼) = , tan(𝛼) =
3.4 mm g g h
7. sin(𝛽) = 0.8, cos(𝛽) = 0.6, tan(𝛽) = 1.3
11.78 mm
b. 24 7 24
c. 20.02 mm
2 8. sin(𝛾) = , cos(𝛾) = , tan(𝛾) =
25 25 7
5. a. 30.48 cm b. 2.61 cm c. 47.27 cm b a b
2 9. sin(𝛽) = , cos(𝛽) = , tan(𝛽) =
6. a. 0.87 m b. 0.433 m c c a
7. D v t v
10. sin(𝛾) = , cos(𝛾) = , tan(𝛾) =
8. a. Yes. u u t
The longest umbrella that can fit in the suitcase is an
b. 12 4 25 5
11. a. sin(𝜃) = = b. cos(𝜃) = =
umbrella that is 101.48 cm long. 15 5 30 6
9. a. No. 4 17
c. tan(𝜃) = d. sin(35°) =
b. The longest straw that can fit in the lunchbox is a straw 5 t
that is 17.72 cm long.
14.3 7
10. 242 cm 12. a. sin(𝛼) = b. sin(15°) =
2
17.5 x
11. a. w = 0.47 m b. 0.64 m
2 20 3.1
c. 12.79 m d. $89.85 c. tan(𝜃) = d. cos(𝛼) =
31 9.8
12. Width = 12 mm, area = 480 mm2
13. D
13. 179 mm
14. B
14. a. No, AC is calculated by summing the lengths of AD and
15. D
DC, so these lengths have to be calculated first.
16. Provided n is a positive value, (m + n) would be the
b. AD = 4.47 cm, DC = 9.17 cm, AC = 13.64 cm
hypotenuse, because it has a greater value than both
c. The triangle ABC is not right-angled because
m and (m − n).
(AB)2 + (BC)2 ≠ (AC)2 .
17. a. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions
15. Even though a problem may be represented in 3D, in the online resources.
right-angled triangles in 2D can often be found within the
b. 1
problem. This can be done by drawing a cross-section of the
shape or by looking at individual faces of the shape. 18. The ratios remain constant when the angle is unchanged.
The size of the triangle has no effect.
16. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions in
the online resources. 19. a. Ground b. Ladder c. Brick wall

17. a, b. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions 20. a.

α
H
in the online resources. O
18. a. 2606 mm 41°
b. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions
A
in the online resources. b. i. sin(41°) = 0.65
19. 16.7 m ii. cos(41°) = 0.76
20. w = 3.536 m, x = 7.071 cm, y = 15.909 cm, z = 3.536 cm iii. tan(41°) = 0.86
c. 𝛼 = 49°
5.4 Trigonometric ratios d. i. sin(49°) = 0.76
1. a. b. c. ii. cos(49°) = 0.65
θ hyp hyp hyp
adj opp opp
θ iii. tan(49°) = 1.16
θ
opp adj adj e. They are equal.
f. They are equal.
2. a. b. hyp c. opp
θ opp g. The sine of an angle is equal to the cosine of
adj θ
its complement.
hyp adj
adj 21. a. The ratio of the length of the opposite side to the length
hyp
opp θ of the hypotenuse will increase.
b. The ratio of the length of the adjacent side will decrease,
3. a. DE = hypotenuse DF = opposite ∠E = 𝜃 and the ratio of the opposite side to the adjacent
GH = hypotenuse IH = adjacent ∠H = 𝜃
b. will increase.
c. JL = hypotenuse KL = opposite ∠J = 𝜃 c. i. 1 ii. 1 iii. ∞
4. D

316 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

5.5 Calculating unknown side lengths 22. a. x = 12.87 m b. h = 3.01 m c. x = 2.60 m
1. a. i. 0.8192 23. w = 41 mm

ii. 0.2011 24. a. 5.9 m b. 5.2 m

b. 25. 4m
𝜃 0° 15° 30° 45° 60° 75° 90°
sin(𝜃) 0 0.26 0.50 0.71 0.87 0.97 1.00 5.6 Calculating unknown angles
As 𝜃 increases, so does sin(𝜃), starting at 0 and
c. 1. a. 39° b. 72° c. 37°
increasing to 1. 2. a. 53° b. 69° c. 71°
2. a. i. 0.7880 3. a. 79° b. 77° c. 15°
ii. 0.5919 4. a. 19° b. 42° c. 55° d. 21°
b. 5. a. 49° b. 80° c. 35° d. 45°
𝜃 0° 15° 30° 45° 60° 75° 90°
cos(𝜃) 1.00 0.97 0.87 0.71 0.50 0.26 0 6. a. 41° b. 23° c. 58° d. 80°
7. a. 47° b. 45° c. 24°
As 𝜃 increases, cos(𝜃) decreases, starting at 1 and
c.
8. a. 43° b. 45° c. 18°
decreasing to 0.
9. a. 26° b. 12° c. 76°
3. a. i. 0.3249
10. D
ii. 1.2753
11. B
b.
𝜃 0° 15° 30° 45° 60° 75° 90° 12. D
tan(𝜃) 0 0.27 0.58 1.00 1.73 3.73 Undefined 13. C
c. tan(89°) = 57.29, tan(89.9°) = 572.96 14. 30.56°
d. As 𝜃 increases, tan(𝜃) increases, starting at 0 and 15. 21.80°
becoming very large. There is no value for tan(90°). 16. a.
x y = cos−1 (x)
4. a. 13.02 m b. 7.04 m c. 27.64 mm
0.0 90°
5. a. 2.79 cm b. 6.27 m c. 14.16 m
0.1 84°
6. a. 2.95 cm b. 25.99 cm c. 184.73 cm
0.2 78°
7. a. 14.06 km b. 8.43 km c. 31.04 m
0.3 73°
8. a. 26.96 mm b. 60.09 cm c. 0.84 km
0.4 66°
9. a. 0.94 km b. 5.59 m c. 41.67 m
10. a. 54.73 m b. 106.46 cm c. 298.54 mm
0.5 60°
11. a. a = 17.95, b = 55.92 0.6 53°
b. a = 15.59, b = 9.00, c = 10.73 0.7 46°
c. a = 12.96, b = 28.24, c = 15.28 0.8 37°
12. D 0.9 26°
13. B 1.0 0°
14. A
b.
15. D 90
80
16. a. 275.75 km b. 48.62 km
70
y = cos–1(x)

17. 21.32 m 60
18. 285.63 m 50
40
19. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions in
30
the online resources. 20
20. a. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions 10
in the online resources. 0 [Link].[Link].80.9 1
b. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions x
in the online resources. 17. 18.43° and m = 0.33.
AB 18. a. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions
c. AC =
tan(𝜃) in the online resources.
21. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions in b. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions
the online resources. in the online resources.

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 317

19. a. 2.31 m 14. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions in
b. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions the online resources.
in the online resources. 15. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions in
20. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions in the online resources.
the online resources. 16. a. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions
21. a. 𝜃 = 26.01° b. 𝜃 = 32.01° c. x = 22.62° in the online resources.
22. a. The roof would not be high enough. b. 37°

b. 136° c. i. Yes

23. 54.74° ii. 17.26 m

24. Large square dimensions: length = 5 cm, width = 5 cm Project

Large triangle dimensions: base = 5 √
cm, height = 5 cm
The Great Pyramid of Giza
5 2
Small square dimensions: length = cm, 1. 186.25 m
√ 2
2. 21 418.75 m
2
5 2
width cm 3. 218.89 m
2
√ √
5 2 5 2 Wall braces
Small triangle dimensions: base = cm, height cm 1. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions in the
2 2
√ online resources.
Parallelogram dimensions: height = 5 cm, length 5 2 cm 2. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions in the
online resources.
5.7 Angles of elevation and depression
3. 53° requires the shortest brace and 37° requires the longest
1. 14.11 m brace.
2. 66.35 m 4. 4.24 m
3. The new ramps have an angle of inclination of 8.13°. 5. 3.62 m
This does not meet the required specifications. m = 0.14.
6. 4.61 m, 4.52 m
4. a. b. 42 m
7. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions in the
online resources.
35°
60 m 5.8 Review questions
1. C
5. 1.6 m
2. D
6. 63°
3. D
7. a. 34° b. 3m
4. D
8. B
5. D
9. Con: 34°, John: 30°
6. C
10. a. Sami
θ 7. B
4m 8. B
Marker
9. D
10 m Water’s edge 20 m 10. C
Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions
b. 11. A
in the online resources. 12. D
c. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions 13. a. 11.06 m
in the online resources. b. 12.40 cm
11. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions in c. 429.70 cm or 4.30 m
the online resources.
14. a. 113.06 cm
12. a.
40° 60° b. 83.46 mm
c. 55.50 mm or 5.55 cm
80 m
15. 183.58 cm
40° 60° 16. 0.9 m
49 m
b. 17. a. x = 12.69
13. a. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions b. l = 11.53, k = 10.34
in the online resources. 18. 593 m
b. 1.64 m 19. a. True b. False c. True

318 Jacaranda Maths Quest 9

20. a.
θ
hyp adj

opp
b. adj
θ

opp
hyp

c. hyp
θ
adj
opp

6
21. a. cos(𝜃) =
7
𝜃 = 31°
12
b. tan(𝛽) =
5
𝛽 = 67°
11
c. sin(𝛾) =
13
𝛾 = 58°
22. a. 0.8090 b. 0.7771 c. 0.2126
23. a. 7.76 b. 36.00 c. 2.56 m
d. 19.03 e. 6.79 km f. 394.29 mm
24. a. 9° b. 33° c. 28°
25. a. 32° b. 45° c. 39°
d. 68° e. 30° f. 60°
g. 60° h. 83°
26. 74.41°
27. a. i. 283.02 m
ii. 240.21 m
iii. 150.33 m
b. 141.86 m
28. a. 64.81 cm b. 84.06 m
29. 59.24 m
30. 35 m
31. 90°, 53° and 37°
32. No. The stack of chairs must be tilted by 25.84° to fit
through the doorway, which is more than the safe angle
of 25°.
2r √
33. √ = 2r
2
34. a. 𝜃 = 60.28° b. 93.09 m2

TOPIC 5 Pythagoras and trigonometry 319