Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.

M), Form Four

KWA MIKOA YA KANDA YA ZIWA, S.P.B.M

ITAPIGA KAMBI JIJINI MWANZA KUANZIA
TAREHE 21/07/2024 HADI 01/10/2024 LENGO NI
KUSOGEZA HUDUMA ZA VITABU HIVI VYA
S.P.B.M KARIBU YAKO. KWA MAWASILIANO
ZAIDI PIGA 0716353904/0687334179

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
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KWA MIKOA YA KANDA YA ZIWA, S.P.B.M ITAPIGA
KAMBI JIJINI MWANZA KUANZIA TAREHE
21/07/2024 HADI 01/10/2024 LENGO NI KUSOGEZA
HUDUMA ZA VITABU HIVI KARIBU YAKO.
KWA MAWASILIANO PIGA 0716353904/0687334179

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

MITIHANI YOTE IPO KATIKA MFUMO WA SASA

(COMPETENCE BASED), NI COMPETENCE BASED
KWELI KWELI
KARIBUNI SANA
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Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179
 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
CHAPTER FIVE: TRIGONOMETRY

1. (a) Where the word ‘trigonometry’ is derived from?

(b) Define the term trigonometry.
Answer
(a) The word ‘trigonometry’ is derived from the Greek words ‘tri’ (meaning
three), ‘gon’ (meaning sides) and ‘metron’ (meaning measure).
(b) Trigonometry is the study of the relationships between sides, lengths, and
angles of a triangle.
The three trigonometrical ratios of sine, cosine, and tangent have been
defined using the sides of a right – angled triangle ABC as follows:
If A is an acute angle as shown in the figure below, then
sin A =
length of opposite side
=
𝑎 A
length of hypotenuse side 𝑐
length of adjacent side 𝑏
cos A = length of hypotenuse side = 𝑐 𝑐 𝑏
length of opposite side 𝑎
tan A = =𝑏
length of adjacent side
B 𝑎 C
Fig: Sides of a right − angled triangle
From the figure above:
̅̅̅̅
BC is called the opposite side to angle A whose length is denoted by a.
̅̅̅̅
CA is called the adjacent side to angle A whose length is denoted by b.
̅̅̅̅
BA is called the hypotenuse side to angle A whose length is denoted by c.
2. Define the following terms:
(a) Quadrants (b) Clockwise (c) Anticlockwise (d) Negative angle.
Answer
(a) Quadrants are four sections obtained by the crossing of two axes of the
coordinate system.
(b) Clockwise is a direction which is opposite to anticlockwise direction
derived from the direction of clock arms.
(c) Anticlockwise is a direction which is opposite to clockwise direction.
(d) Negative angle is an angle in the quadrants measured in the clockwise
direction.
Note: Consider a circle of unit radius subdivided into four congruent sectors
by the coordinate axes whose origin is at the centre of the circle as shown in
the figure below.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Let θ be any acute angle (0° < θ < 90° ) and P be the point on the circle with
coordinates (x, y), where ̅̅̅̅
OP is the radius of the unit circle.
The trigonometrical ratios in this circle can be obtained by using the sides of
a right – angled triangle OPQ as follows:
̅̅̅̅
QP 𝑦
𝑦
sin θ = ̅̅̅̅ = = 𝑦.
OP 1 P(𝑥, 𝑦)
̅̅̅̅̅
OQ 𝑥
cos θ = ̅̅̅̅ = 1 = 𝑥. 1
OP
̅̅̅̅
𝑦
QP 𝑦
tan θ = ̅̅̅̅̅ = . θ
OQ 𝑥 O 𝑥 Q 𝑥

Figure: An acute angle in a unit circle

All the trigonometrical ratios in the figure above are positive as per
corresponding axes of x and y.
In the figure below, θ is an obtuse angle (90° < θ < 180° ). The
trigonometrical ratios of θ are the same as the trigonometrical ratios of
180° − θ.
𝑦

P(−𝑥, 𝑦)

𝑦 1

(180° − θ) θ
Q −𝑥 O 𝑥

Figure: An obtuse angle in a unit circle

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
The trigonometrical ratios in this circle can be obtained by using the sides of
a right – angled triangle OQP as follows:
̅̅̅̅
QP 𝑦
sin θ = sin(180° − θ) = OP
̅̅̅̅
= = 𝑦.
1
̅̅̅̅̅
OQ −𝑥
cos θ = − cos(180° − θ) = ̅̅̅̅
= = −𝑥.
OP 1
̅̅̅̅
QP 𝑦 𝑦
tan θ = − tan(180° − 𝜃) = OQ
̅̅̅̅̅
= −𝑥 = − 𝑥 .
In the figure above, the trigonometrical ratios of sine is positive while that of
cosine and tangent are negative as per corresponding axes of x and y.
In the figure below, θ is a reflex angle (180° < θ < 270° )
The trigonometrical ratios of θ are the same as the trigonometrical ratios of
θ − 180° .
𝑦

Q θ
−𝑥
(θ − 180° ) O 𝑥
−𝑦
1

P(−𝑥, −𝑦)

Figure: Reflex angle in a unit circle

The trigonometrical ratios in this circle can be obtained by using the sides of
a right – angled triangle OQP as follows:
̅̅̅̅
QP −𝑦
sin θ = − sin(θ − 180° ) = ̅̅̅̅ = = −𝑦.
OP 1
̅̅̅̅̅
OQ −𝑥
cos θ = − cos(θ − 180° ) = ̅̅̅̅
= 1 = −𝑥.
OP
̅̅̅̅
QP −𝑦 𝑦
tan θ = tan(θ − 180° ) = ̅̅̅̅̅
= = .
OQ −𝑥 𝑥

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
In the figure above, the trigonometrical ratios of sine and cosine are negative
while for the tangent is positive as per corresponding axes of x and y.
In the figure below, θ is a reflex angle (270° < θ < 360° ).
The trigonometrical ratios of θ are the same as the trigonometrical ratios of
360° − θ.
𝑦

θ Q
𝑥
O 𝑥
(360° − θ)
−𝑦
1

P(𝑥, −𝑦)

Figure: A reflex angle in a unit circle

The trigonometrical ratios in this circle can be obtained by using the sides of
a right – angled triangle OQP as follows:
̅̅̅̅
QP −𝑦
sin θ = − sin(360° − θ) = OP
̅̅̅̅
= = −𝑦.
1
̅̅̅̅̅
OQ 𝑥
cos θ = cos(360° − θ) = ̅̅̅̅
=1 = 𝑥.
OP
̅̅̅̅
QP 𝑦
tan θ = − tan(360° − θ) = OQ
̅̅̅̅̅
= − 𝑥.
In the figure above, the trigonometrical ratios of sine and tangent are negative
while for the cosine is positive as per corresponding axes of x and y.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Note: We have seen that the trigonometrical ratios are positive or negative
depending on the size of the angle and the quadrant in which the angle is found.
The results obtained are illustrated in the figure below. These results will be
helpful in determining whether sine, cosine, and tangent of an angle is positive
or negative.
𝑦

QUADRANT II QUADRANT I
Sine is positive Sine is positive
Cosine is negative Cosine is positive
Tangent is positive Tangent is positive

QUADRANT III QUADRANT IV 𝑥

Sine is negative Sine is negative
Cosine is negative Cosine is positive
Tangent is positive Tangent is negative

Figure: Signs of trigonometric ratios

3. Write the signs of each of the following trigonometric ratios:
(a) cos 160°
(b) sin 310°
(c) tan 75°
(d) sin 220°
(e) cos 355°
(f) tan 190°
Solution
(a) 160 is in the second quadrant hence, cos 160° is negative.
°

(b) 310° is in the fourth quadrant hence, sin 310° is negative.

(c) 75° is in the first quadrant hence, tan 75° is positive.
(d) 220° is in the third quadrant hence, sin 220° is negative.
(e) 355° is in the fourth quadrant hence, cos 355° is positive
(f) 190° is in the third quadrant hence, tan 190° is positive.
4. Express each of the following in terms of sin 50° .

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(a) sin 130°
(b) sin 230°
(c) sin 310°
Solution
°
(a) 130 is in the second quadrant.
θ = 130°
In the second quadrant, sin θ = sin(180° − θ).
Hence sin 130° = sin(180° − 130° ) = sin 50°
∴ sin 130° = sin 50°
(b) 230° is in the third quadrant.
θ = 230°
In the third quadrant, sin θ = − sin(θ − 180° )
Hence sin 230° = − sin(230° − 180° ) = − sin 50°
∴ sin 230° = − sin 50°
(c) 310° is in the fourth quadrant.
θ = 310°
In the fourth quadrant, sin θ = − sin(360° − θ)
Hence sin 310° = − sin(360° − 310° ) = − sin 50°
∴ sin 310° = − sin 50°
5. Express each of the following in terms of tan 40° .
(a) tan 140°
(b) tan 220°
(c) tan 320°
Solution
°
(a) 140 is in the second quadrant.
θ = 140°
In the second quadrant, tan θ = − tan(180° − θ)
Hence tan 140° = − tan(180° − 140° ) = − tan 40°
∴ tan 140° = − tan 40°
(b) 220° is in the third quadrant.
θ = 220°
In the third quadrant, tan θ = tan(θ − 180° )
Hence tan 220° = tan(220° − 180° ) = tan 40°
∴ tan 220° = tan 40°
(c) 320° is in the fourth quadrant.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
θ = 320°
In the fourth quadrant, tan θ = − tan(360° − θ)
Hence tan 320° = − tan(360° − 320° ) = − tan 40°
∴ tan 320° = − tan 40°
Angles greater than 𝟑𝟔𝟎° and less than 𝟕𝟐𝟎°
 Any angle greater than 360° lies in one of the four quadrants. For
example
380° lies in the first quadrant and is equivalent to 380° − 360° = 20° .
This is written as: 380° ≡ 380° − 360° = 20°
Similarly 520° ≡ 520° − 360° = 160° which is in the second quadrant.
Thus, if an angle θ is greater than 360° then, θ is equivalent to θ − 360° .
 So to find the sine, cosine or tangents of an angle greater than 360° ,
subtract 360° until the angle is between 0° and 360° .
6. Evaluate the following trigonometric ratios:
(a) sin 400°
(b) sin 560°
(c) cos 410°
(d) cos 590°
(e) tan 390°
(f) tan 480°
(g) sin 690°
(h) sin 700°
(i) cos 688°
(j) cos 550°
(k) tan 690°
(l) tan 600°
(m) sin 800°
(n) sin 960°
(o) tan 1,000°
(p) sin 1,400°
Solution
(a) sin 400 = sin(400 − 360 = sin 40° = 0.6428
° ° °)

∴ sin 400° = 0.6428

(b) sin 560° = sin(560° − 360° ) = sin 200°
sin 200° = − sin(200° − 180° ) = − sin 20° = −0.3420

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
∴ sin 560° = −0.3420
(c) cos 410° = cos(410° − 360° ) = cos 50° = 0.6428
∴ cos 410° = 0.6428
(d) cos 590° = cos(590° − 360° ) = cos 230°
cos 230° = − cos(230° − 180° ) = − cos 50° = −0.6428
∴ cos 590° = −0.6428
(e) tan 390° = tan(390° − 360° ) = tan 30° = 0.5774
∴ tan 390° = 0.5774
(f) tan 480° = tan(480° − 360° ) = tan 120°
tan 120° = − tan(180° − 120° ) = − tan 60° = −1.7321
∴ tan 480° = −1.7321
(g) sin 690° = sin(690° − 360° ) = sin 330°
sin 330° = − sin(360° − 330° ) = − sin 30° = −0.5000
∴ sin 690° = −0.5000
(h) sin 700° = sin(700° − 360° ) = sin 340°
sin 340° = − sin(360° − 340° ) = − sin 20° = −0.3420
∴ sin 700° = −0.3420
(i) cos 688° = cos(688° − 360° ) = cos 328°
cos 328° = cos(360° − 328° ) = cos 32° = 0.8480
∴ cos 688° = 0.8480
(j) cos 550° = cos(550° − 360° ) = cos 190°
cos 190° = − cos(190° − 180° ) = − cos 10° = −0.9848
∴ cos 550° = −0.9848
(k) tan 690° = tan(690° − 360° ) = tan 330°
tan 330° = − tan(360° − 330° ) = − tan 30° = −0.5774
∴ tan 690° = −0.5774
(l) tan 600° = tan(600° − 360° ) = tan 240°
tan 240° = tan(240° − 180° ) = tan 60° = 1.7321
∴ tan 600° = 1.7321
(m) sin 800° = sin(800° − 360° ) = sin 440° = sin(440° − 360° ) = sin 80°
sin 80° = 0.9848
∴ sin 800° = 0.9848
(n) sin 960° = sin(960° − 360° ) = sin 600° = sin(600° − 360° ) = sin 240°
° ° °
sin 240° = − sin (240 − 180 ) = − sin 60 = −0.8660
∴ sin 960° = −0.8660

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(o) tan 1,000° = tan(1,000° − 360° ) = tan 640° = tan(640° − 360° ) = tan 280°
tan 280° = − tan(360° − 280° ) = − tan 80° = −5.6713
∴ tan 1,000° = −5.6713
(p) sin 1,400° = sin(1,400° − 360° ) = sin 1040° = sin(1040° − 360° )
sin 680° = sin(680° − 360° ) = sin 320°
sin 320° = − sin(360° − 320° ) = − sin 40° = −0.6428
∴ sin 1,400° = −0.6428
Note:
 The coordinate of a point can be used in determining trigonometrical
ratios.
 Let 𝜃 be an angle in standard position with (x, y) a point on the terminal
side of 𝜃 and 𝑟 = √𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 ≠ 0.
 The trigonometrical ratios of 𝜃 from the first quadrant are as follows:
𝑦−coordinate 𝑦
sin 𝜃 = = 𝑟.
radius
𝑥−coordinate 𝑥
cos 𝜃 = = 𝑟.
radius
𝑦−coordinate 𝑦
tan 𝜃 = 𝑥−coordinate = 𝑥 , 𝑥 ≠ 0.
 Because 𝑟 = √𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 cannot be zero, it follows that the sine and
cosine functions are defined for any real value of 𝜃.
 Therefore, we are able to find the trigonometrical ratios of angles using
the coordinates of the terminal points of each side.
7. Write steps to follow in finding exact trigonometric ratios when given a
coordinate point.
Answer
The following are the steps to follow in finding exact trigonometric ratios
when given a coordinate point:
(i) Locate the given coordinate point on the plane coordinate.
(ii) Connect the origin (0, 0) and the point with a straight line.
(iii)Draw a perpendicular line from the point to the x – axis.
(iv) Find the lengths of the sides of the right triangle formed.
(v) Identify which quadrant the point is in and determine the sign of each
trigonometric ratio.
8. The terminal side of line OQ has the coordinates (−3, 4) and it is inclined at
the angle 𝜃 with the x – axis. Find sin 𝜃 , cos 𝜃 , and tan 𝜃.
Solution

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
̅̅̅̅ = √(−3)2 + 42
The hypotenus side, 𝑂𝑄
̅̅̅̅ = √9 + 16
The hypotenus side, 𝑂𝑄
̅̅̅̅ = √25
The hypotenus side, 𝑂𝑄
̅̅̅̅ = 5
The hypotenus side, 𝑂𝑄
Therefore,
4
sin 𝜃 = 5
3
cos 𝜃 = − 5
4
tan 𝜃 = − 3
9. The terminal side of line OQ has the coordinates (−3, −4) and it is inclined at
the angle 𝜃 with the x – axis. Find sin 𝜃 , cos 𝜃 , and tan 𝜃.
Solution
̅̅̅̅ = √(−3)2 + (−4)2
The hypotenus side, 𝑂𝑄
̅̅̅̅ = √9 + 16
The hypotenus side, 𝑂𝑄
̅̅̅̅ = √25
The hypotenus side, 𝑂𝑄
̅̅̅̅ = 5
The hypotenus side, 𝑂𝑄
Therefore,
4
sin 𝜃 = − 5
3
cos 𝜃 = − 5
4
tan 𝜃 = 3
Note: The signs of the trigonometric functions in the four quadrants can be
determined from the definitions of the functions. For instance, because
𝑥
cos 𝜃 = 𝑟 , it follows that cos 𝜃 is positive wherever 𝑥 > 0, which is in
Quadrants I and IV. (Remember, r is always positive.)
2
10. Given sin 𝜃 = − and tan 𝜃 > 0, find cos 𝜃.
3
Solution
Note that 𝜃 lies in Quadrant III because that is the only quadrant in which the
𝑦 2
sine is negative and the tangent is positive. Moreover, using sin 𝜃 = = −3
𝑟
and the fact that y is negative in Quadrant III, you can let 𝑦 = −2 and 𝑟 = 3.
Because x is negative in Quadrant III, 𝑥 = −√9 − 4 = −√5.
𝑥 √5
∴ cos 𝜃 = 𝑟 = − 3
11. Derive the relationship between trigonometric ratios.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Solution
Consider ∆ABC as shown in the figure below. Angles A and C are
C
complementary, that is:
̂ + Ĉ = 90°
A
Ĉ = 90° − A
̂ 𝑏 𝑎
𝑎 𝑎
But sin A = 𝑏 and cos C = 𝑏
̂) A
Thus, sin A = cos C = cos(90° − A 𝑐 B
̂ ) Fig: Relationship between trigonometrical
Hence, sin A = cos(90° − A
ratios in the right – angled triangle
Note: The sine of an angle is equal to the cosine of its complement and vice
versa.
𝑎
sin A = 𝑏 − − − −(i)
𝑐
cos A = 𝑏 − − − −(ii)
sin A 𝑎 𝑐 𝑎
=𝑏÷𝑏 =
cos A 𝑐
𝑎
tan A = 𝑐
𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝐀
∴ 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝐀 = 𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝐀
Also
𝑎2
sin2 A = 𝑏2 − − − −(iii)
𝑐2
cos2 A = 𝑏2 − − − −(iv)
Add equations (iii) and (iv).
𝑎2 𝑐2
sin2 A + cos 2 A = 𝑏2 + 𝑏2
𝑎2 +𝑐 2
sin2 A + cos 2 A = 𝑏2
2 2 2
But, 𝑎 + 𝑐 = 𝑏 − − − −(Pythagoras′ theorem)
𝑏2
sin2 A + cos 2 A = 𝑏2
∴ 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝟐 𝐀 + 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝟐 𝐀 = 𝟏
Note:
 The symbol sin A ̂ is used as an abbreviation for ‘the sine of the angle A’.
̂ is not the product of ‘sin’ and A
sin A ̂ . ‘sin’ separated from A ̂ has no
meaning. Similarly cos A ̂ is not the product of ‘cos’ and A ̂ . Similar
interpretations follow for other trigonometric ratios also.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
 The values of the trigonometric ratios of an angle do not vary with the
lengths of the sides of the triangle, if the angle remains the same.
 Since the hypotenuse is the longest side in a right triangle, the value of
̂ or cos A
sin A ̂ is always less than 1 (or, in particular, equal to 1).
In the other words, the value sin  or cos A ̂ never exceeds 1.
12. If A is an acute angle:
(a) Why is sin 𝐴 < 1?
(b) When is sin 𝐴 = cos 𝐴?
(c) Why is sin 𝐴 < tan 𝐴?
(d) When is sin 𝐴 < cos 𝐴?
(e) When is tan 𝐴 > 1?
Answers
𝑎
(a) Side 𝑎 < side 𝑐; therefore sin 𝐴 = 𝑐 < 1.
𝑎 𝑏
(b) Sin 𝐴 = cos 𝐴 when = 𝑐 ; then 𝑎 = 𝑏, 𝐴 = 𝐵, and 𝐴 = 45° .
𝑐
𝑎 𝑎 𝑎 𝑎
(c) Sin 𝐴 = 𝑐 , tan 𝐴 = 𝑏 and 𝑏 < 𝑐; therefore < 𝑏 or sin 𝐴 < tan 𝐴.
𝑐
(d) Sin 𝐴 < cos 𝐴 when 𝑎 < 𝑏; then 𝐴 < 𝐵 or 𝐴 < 90° − 𝐴 and 𝐴 < 45° .
𝑎
(e) Tan 𝐴 = 𝑏 > 1 when 𝑎 > 𝑏; then 𝐴 > 𝐵 and 𝐴 > 45° .
13. If:
1 1
(a) sin(A − B) = 2 and cos(A + B) = 2 , 0° < A + B ≤ 90° , A > B, find A
and B.
1
(b) tan(A + B) = √3 and tan(A − B) = ; 0° < A + B ≤ 90° ; A > B, find
√3
A and B.
Solution
1
(a) sin(A − B) = 2
1
A − B = sin−1 (2)
A − B = 30° − − − −(i)
1
cos(A + B) = 2
1
A + B = cos−1 (2)
A + B = 60° − − − −(ii)
Make A the subject in equation (i) above.
A = B + 30° − − − −(iii)
Substitute equation (iii) into equation (ii).

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
B + 30° + B = 60°
2B + 30° = 60°
2B = 60° − 30°
2B = 30°
B = 15°
Substitute B = 15° into equation (iii).
A = 15° + 30°
A = 45°
∴ A = 45° and B = 15°
(b) tan(A + B) = √3
A + B = tan−1 (√3)
A + B = 60° − − − −(i)
1
tan(A − B) =
√3
1
A − B = tan−1 ( )
√3
A − B = 30° − − − −(ii)
Make B the subject in equation (i) above.
B = 60° − A − − − −(iii)
Substitute equation (iii) into equation (ii).
A − (60° − A) = 30°
A − 60° + A = 30°
A + A = 30° + 60°
2A = 90°
A = 45°
Substitute A = 45° into equation (iii).
B = 60° − 45°
B = 15°
∴ A = 45° and B = 15°
14. In a right triangle ABC, right – angled at B, if tan A = 1, then verify that
2 sin A cos A = 1.
Solution
From

Opposite side
tan A =
Adjacent side

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Since tan A = 1, then
Opposite side = Adjacent side
Consider the triangle ABC below.
A

B C
In the above triangle, ̅̅̅̅
AB = ̅̅̅̅
BC.
From Pythagoras’ theorem,
̅̅̅̅
AB2 + ̅̅̅̅BC2 = ̅̅̅̅
AC2
̅̅̅̅
AC 2 = ̅̅̅̅AB 2 + ̅̅̅̅
BC2
Let AB̅̅̅̅ = BC
̅̅̅̅ = 𝑘
̅̅̅̅ = 𝑘 + 𝑘 2
AC 2 2

̅̅̅̅ 2 = 2𝑘 2
AC
√̅̅̅̅
AC 2 = √2𝑘 2
̅̅̅̅
AC = 𝑘√2
̅̅̅̅
AC
𝑘=
√2
̅̅̅̅ = BC
But AB ̅̅̅̅ = 𝑘
AC ̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅
AB = ̅̅̅̅
BC =
√2
̅̅̅̅
BC
sin A = ̅̅̅̅
AC
̅̅̅̅̅
AC
√2
sin A = ̅̅̅̅
AC
̅̅̅̅
AC ̅̅̅̅
AC
sin A = ÷
√2 1
̅̅̅̅
AC 1
sin A = × ̅̅̅̅
√2 AC
1
sin A =
√2
̅̅̅̅
AB
cos A = AC
̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅̅
AC
√2
cos A = ̅̅̅̅
AC
̅̅̅̅
AC ̅̅̅̅
AC
cos A = ÷
√2 1
̅̅̅̅
AC 1
cos A = × ̅̅̅̅
√2 AC

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
1
cos A =
√2
1 1
2 sin A cos A = 2 ( ) ( )
√2 √2
1
2 sin A cos A = 2 (2)
∴ 2 sin A cos A = 1; Hence verified.
15. Consider ∆ ABC, right – angled at C, in which ̅̅̅̅
AB = 29 cm and
̅̅̅̅
BC = 21 cm and ∠ABC = θ (see the figure below).
A

29 cm

θ
C 21 cm B

Determine the values of

(a) cos2 θ + sin2 θ (b) cos 2 θ − sin2 θ
Solution
̅̅̅̅
(a) First, let us find the length of AC.
From Pythagoras’ theorem,
̅̅̅̅
AC 2 + ̅̅̅̅
BC2 = ̅̅̅̅
AB2
̅̅̅̅
AC 2 + (21)2 = (29)2
̅̅̅̅ 2 = (29)2 − (21)2
AC
̅̅̅̅ 2 = (29 − 21)(29 + 21)
AC
̅̅̅̅ 2 = 8 × 50
AC
̅̅̅̅
AC 2 = 400
√̅̅̅̅
AC 2 = √400
̅̅̅̅
AC = 20 cm
From

̅̅̅̅
AC
sin θ = AB
̅̅̅̅
20
sin θ = 29
̅̅̅̅
BC
cos θ = ̅̅̅̅
AB
21
cos θ = 29

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
21 2 20 2
cos2 θ + sin2 θ = (29) + (29)
212 202
cos2 θ + sin2 θ = 292 + 292
212 +202
cos2 θ + sin2 θ = 292
2 2 441+400
cos θ + sin θ = 841
2 2 841
cos θ + sin θ = 841
∴ cos2 θ + sin2 θ = 1
21 2 20 2
(b) cos2 θ − sin2 θ = ( ) − ( )
29 29
212 202
cos2 θ + sin2 θ = 292 − 292
212 −202
cos2 θ + sin2 θ = 292
2 2 441−400
cos θ + sin θ = 841
2 2 41
∴ cos θ + sin θ = 841
16. Without using trigonometrical tables and calculators, find the value of sin θ
4
given that cos θ = 5.
Solution
2 2
From sin θ + cos θ = 1
4 2
sin2 θ + (5) = 1
4 2
sin2 θ = 1 − (5)
16
sin2 θ = 1 − 25
9
sin2 θ = 25
9
√sin2 θ = √25
3
∴ sin θ = 5
Alternatively
From

Adjacent side
cos θ = Hypotenuse side
4
cos θ =
5

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Consider the right – angled triangle below.
C

5 𝑦

θ
A 4 B

From Pythagoras’ theorem,

̅̅̅̅)2 = (AB
(AC ̅̅̅̅)2 + (BC
̅̅̅̅)2
52 = 42 + 𝑦 2
𝑦 2 = 52 − 42
𝑦 2 = (5 − 4)(5 + 4)
𝑦2 = 9
√𝑦 2 = √9
𝑦=3
Opposite side
sin θ = Hypotenuse side
3
∴ sin θ = 5
17. Without using trigonometrical tables and calculators, find the value of tan θ
6
given that cos θ = 7.
Solution
2 2
From sin θ + cos θ = 1
6 2
sin2 θ + (7) = 1
6 2
sin2 θ = 1 − (7)
36
sin2 θ = 1 − 49
13
sin2 θ = 49
13
√sin2 θ = √49
√13
sin θ = 7
sin θ
tan θ = cos θ
√13 6
tan θ = ÷7
7
√13 7
tan θ = ×
7 6

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
√13
∴ tan θ =
6
Alternatively
From

Adjacent side
cos θ = Hypotenuse side
6
cos θ = 7
Consider the right – angled triangle below.
C

7 𝑦

θ
A 6 B
From Pythagoras’ theorem,
̅̅̅̅)2 = (AB
(AC ̅̅̅̅)2 + (BC
̅̅̅̅)2
72 = 62 + 𝑦 2
𝑦 2 = 72 − 62
𝑦 2 = (7 − 6)(7 + 6)
𝑦 2 = 13
√𝑦 2 = √13
𝑦 = √13
Opposite side
sin θ = Hypotenuse side
√13
sin θ = 7
sin θ
tan θ = cos θ
√13 6
tan θ = ÷7
7
√13 7
tan θ = 7 × 6
√13
∴ tan θ = 6
18. Without using trigonometrical tables and calculators, find the value of sin θ,
given that cos θ = 0.9272 and tan θ = 0.4040.
Solution

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
sin θ
tan θ =
cos θ
sin θ
0.4040 = 0.9272
sin θ = 0.4040 × 0.9272
∴ sin θ = 0.3746
19. Without using trigonometrical tables and calculators answer the following
questions:
(a) If cos θ = 0.9063, find the value of tan θ.
1
(b) If cos θ = − 3, find the value of tan θ.
Solution
2 2
(a) sin θ + cos θ = 1
sin2 θ + (0.9063)2 = 1
sin2 θ = 1 − (0.9063)2
sin2 θ = 12 − (0.9063)2
sin2 θ = (1 − 0.9063)(1 + 0.9063)
sin2 θ = 0.1786
√sin2 θ = √0.1786
sin θ = 0.4226
sin θ
tan θ = cos θ
0.4226
tan θ = 0.9063
∴ tan θ = 0.4663
(b) sin2 θ + cos2 θ = 1
1 2
sin2 θ + (− 3) = 1
1
sin2 θ + 9 = 1
1
sin2 θ = 1 −
9
2 8
sin θ = 9
8
√sin2 θ = ±√9
2√2
sin θ = ± 3
2√2 2√2
sin θ = or sin θ = −
3 3
sin θ
tan θ = cos θ

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
2√2 1
tan θ = ÷ (− )
3 3
2√2 3
tan θ = × (− 1)
3
tan θ = −2√2
OR
2√2 1
tan θ = − ÷ (− 3)
3
2√2 3
tan θ = − × (− 1)
3
tan θ = 2√2
∴ tan θ = ±2√2
20. Without using trigonometrical tables and calculators, find the value of cos θ,
given that tan θ = 0.75.
Solution
sin θ
tan θ = cos θ
sin θ
0.75 = cos θ
sin θ = 0.75 cos θ − − − −(i)
sin2 θ + cos2 θ = 1
cos2 θ = 1 − sin2 θ − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii) above.
cos2 θ = 1 − (0.75 cos θ)2
cos2 θ = 1 − 0.5625 cos2 θ
cos2 θ + 0.5625 cos 2 θ = 1
(1 + 0.5625) cos 2 θ = 1
1.5625 cos2 θ = 1
1
cos2 θ = 1.5625
1
√cos2 θ = √1.5625
1
cos θ = 1.25
∴ cos θ = 0.8
7 12
21. If sin 𝐴 + cos 𝐴 = 5 and sin A cos A = 25, find the values of
sin A and cos A.
Solution
7
sin 𝐴 + cos 𝐴 = 5 − − − −(i)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Make cos 𝐴 the subject in equation (i) above.
7
cos 𝐴 = 5 − sin 𝐴 − − − −(ii)
12
sin A cos A = 25 − − − −(iii)
Substitute equation (ii) into equation (iii) above.
7 12
sin A (5 − sin 𝐴) = 25
7 12
sin A − sin2 A = 25
5
7 12
25 (5 sin A − sin2 A) = 25 (25)
35 sin A − 25 sin2 A = 12
−25 sin2 A + 35 sin A − 12 = 0
−(25 sin2 A − 35 sin A + 12) = 0
25 sin2 A − 35 sin A + 12 = 0
−𝑏±√𝑏2 −4𝑎𝑐
sin A = 2𝑎
−(−35)±√(−35)2 −4(25)(12)
sin A = 2(25)
−(−35)±√(−35)2 −4(25)(12)
sin A = 2(25)
35±√1225−1200
sin A = 50
35±√25
sin A = 50
35±5
sin A = 50
35+5 35−5
sin A = or sin A =
50 50
40 30
sin A = 50 or sin A = 50
4 3
sin A = 5 or sin A = 5
4 3
Substitute sin A = 5 or sin A = 5 into equation (ii) above.
4 3
When sin A = 5 When sin A = 5
7 4 7 3
cos 𝐴 = 5 − 5 cos 𝐴 = 5 − 5
3 4
cos 𝐴 = 5 cos 𝐴 = 5
4 3 3 4
∴ sin A = 5 , cos 𝐴 = 5 or sin A = 5 , cos 𝐴 = 5
22. If 7 sin2 𝜃 + 3 cos 2 𝜃 = 4, find the value of tan 𝜃.
Solution
2 2
7 sin 𝜃 + 3 cos 𝜃 = 4

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
7 sin2 𝜃 3 cos2 𝜃 4
+ =
cos2 𝜃 cos2 𝜃 cos2 𝜃
1
7 tan2 𝜃 + 3 = 4 (cos2 𝜃)
sin2 𝜃+cos2 𝜃
7 tan2 𝜃 + 3 = 4 ( )
cos2 𝜃
sin2 𝜃 cos2 𝜃
7 tan2 𝜃 + 3 = 4 (cos2 𝜃 + cos2 𝜃)
7 tan2 𝜃 + 3 = 4(tan2 𝜃 + 1)
7 tan2 𝜃 + 3 = 4 tan2 𝜃 + 4
7 tan2 𝜃 − 4 tan2 𝜃 = 4 − 3
3 tan2 𝜃 = 1
1
tan2 𝜃 = 3
1
√tan2 𝜃 = √3
1
tan 𝜃 =
√3
1 √3
tan 𝜃 = ( ) ( )
√3 √3
√3
∴ tan 𝜃 = 3
2
23. If 1 + sin 𝐴 = 3 sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴, find the possible values of tan 𝐴.
Solution
2
1 + sin 𝐴 = 3 sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴
(sin2 𝐴 + cos2 𝐴) + sin2 𝐴 = 3 sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴
2 sin2 𝐴 + cos 2 𝐴 = 3 sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴
2 sin2 𝐴 − 3 sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴 + cos2 𝐴 = 0
2 sin2 𝐴 3 sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴 cos2 𝐴 0
− + cos2 𝐴 = cos2 𝐴
cos2 𝐴 cos2 𝐴
2
2 tan 𝐴 − 3 tan 𝐴 + 1 = 0
2 tan2 𝐴 − 2 tan 𝐴 − tan 𝐴 + 1 = 0
2 tan 𝐴 (tan 𝐴 − 1) − (tan 𝐴 − 1) = 0
(2 tan 𝐴 − 1)(tan 𝐴 − 1) = 0
2 tan 𝐴 − 1 = 0 or tan 𝐴 − 1 = 0
2 tan 𝐴 = 1 or tan 𝐴 = 1
1
∴ tan 𝐴 = 2 or tan 𝐴 = 1
OR
2 tan2 𝐴 − 3 tan 𝐴 + 1 = 0
−𝑏±√𝑏2 −4𝑎𝑐
tan 𝐴 =
2𝑎

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
−(−3)±√(−3)2 −4(2)(1)
tan 𝐴 = 2(2)
3±√9−8
tan 𝐴 = 4
3±√1
tan 𝐴 = 4
3±1
tan 𝐴 = 4
3+1 3−1
tan 𝐴 = or tan 𝐴 =
4 4
2 2
tan 𝐴 = 4 or tan 𝐴 = 4
1
∴ tan 𝐴 = or tan 𝐴 = 1
2
sin 𝜃 1−cos 𝜃
24. Verify that 1+cos 𝜃 = .
sin 𝜃
Solution
RHS:
sin 𝜃 sin 𝜃 1−cos 𝜃
= (1+cos 𝜃) (1−cos 𝜃 )
1+cos 𝜃
sin 𝜃 sin 𝜃(1−cos 𝜃)
=
1+cos 𝜃 1−cos2 𝜃
sin 𝜃 sin 𝜃(1−cos 𝜃)
=
1+cos 𝜃 sin2 𝜃
sin 𝜃 1−cos 𝜃
=
1+cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃
LHS
1−cos 𝜃 1−cos 𝜃 1+cos 𝜃
=( )( )
sin 𝜃 sin 𝜃 1+cos 𝜃
1−cos 𝜃 1−cos2 𝜃
= sin 𝜃(1+cos 𝜃)
sin 𝜃
1−cos 𝜃 sin2 𝜃
= sin 𝜃(1+cos 𝜃)
sin 𝜃
1−cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃
= 1+cos 𝜃
sin 𝜃
sin 𝜃 1−cos 𝜃
∴ 1+cos 𝜃 = ; Hence verified.
sin 𝜃
1−sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃
25. Show that = 1+sin 𝜃.
cos 𝜃
Solution
Consider RHS.
cos 𝜃 cos 𝜃 cos 𝜃
= (1+sin 𝜃) (cos 𝜃)
1+sin 𝜃
cos 𝜃 cos2 𝜃
= cos 𝜃(1+sin 𝜃)
1+sin 𝜃
cos 𝜃 1−sin2 𝜃
= cos 𝜃(1+sin 𝜃)
1+sin 𝜃

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
cos 𝜃 (1−sin 𝜃)(1+sin 𝜃)
=
1+sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃(1+sin 𝜃)
cos 𝜃 1−sin 𝜃
=
1+sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃
1−sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃
∴ = 1+sin 𝜃; Hence shown.
cos 𝜃
2 sin 𝜃 1−cos 𝜃+sin 𝜃
26. If 𝑥 = 1+cos 𝜃+sin 𝜃 , then prove that = 𝑥.
1+sin 𝜃
Solution
2 sin 𝜃
Given 𝑥 = 1+cos 𝜃+sin 𝜃
2 sin 𝜃
𝑥 = 1+sin 𝜃+cos 𝜃
2 sin 𝜃
𝑥 = (1+sin 𝜃)+cos 𝜃
2 sin 𝜃(1−cos 𝜃+sin 𝜃)
𝑥 = [(1+sin 𝜃)+cos 𝜃](1−cos 𝜃+sin 𝜃)
2 sin 𝜃(1+sin 𝜃−cos 𝜃)
𝑥 = [(1+sin 𝜃)+cos 𝜃](1+sin 𝜃−cos 𝜃)
2 sin 𝜃[(1+sin 𝜃)−cos 𝜃]
𝑥 = [(1+sin 𝜃)+cos 𝜃][(1+sin 𝜃)−cos 𝜃]
Since (𝑎 + 𝑏)(𝑎 − 𝑏) = 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 , then
2 sin 𝜃[(1+sin 𝜃)−cos 𝜃]
𝑥= (1+sin 𝜃)2 −cos2 𝜃
2 sin 𝜃[(1+sin 𝜃)−cos 𝜃]
𝑥 = sin2 𝜃+2 sin 𝜃+1−cos2 𝜃
2 sin 𝜃[(1+sin 𝜃)−cos 𝜃]
𝑥 = sin2 𝜃+2 sin 𝜃+(1−cos2 𝜃)
2 sin 𝜃[(1+sin 𝜃)−cos 𝜃]
𝑥= sin2 𝜃+2 sin 𝜃+sin2 𝜃
2 sin 𝜃[(1+sin 𝜃)−cos 𝜃]
𝑥= 2 sin 𝜃+2 sin2 𝜃
2 sin 𝜃[(1+sin 𝜃)−cos 𝜃]
𝑥= 2 sin 𝜃(1+sin 𝜃)
(1+sin 𝜃)−cos 𝜃
𝑥= (1+sin 𝜃)
1−cos 𝜃+sin 𝜃
∴𝑥= ; Hence proved.
1+sin 𝜃
1
27. If cos2 𝜃 − sin 𝜃 = tan2 ∅, prove that cos ∅ =
2
√2 cos 𝜃
Solution
2 2 2
cos 𝜃 − sin 𝜃 = tan ∅
sin2 ∅
cos2 𝜃 − sin2 𝜃 = cos2 ∅
1−cos2 ∅
cos2 𝜃 − (1 − cos 2 𝜃) = cos2 ∅

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
1 cos2 ∅
cos2 𝜃 − 1 + cos2 𝜃 = −
cos2 ∅ cos2 ∅
1
2 cos2 𝜃 − 1 = cos2 ∅ − 1
1
2 cos2 𝜃 = cos2 ∅
1
(2 cos2 𝜃) cos2 ∅ = ( ) cos2 ∅
cos2 ∅
2 cos2 𝜃 cos2 ∅ = 1
1
cos2 ∅ = 2 cos2 𝜃
1
√cos2 ∅ = √
2 cos2 𝜃
1
∴ cos ∅ = ; Hence proved.
√2 cos 𝜃
28. Prove that 𝑥 + 𝑦 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 when 𝑥 = 𝑎 cos 𝜃 − 𝑏 sin 𝜃 and
2 2

𝑦 = 𝑎 sin 𝜃 + 𝑏 cos 𝜃.
Solution
Consider LHS
𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = (𝑎 cos 𝜃 − 𝑏 sin 𝜃)2 + (𝑎 sin 𝜃 + 𝑏 cos 𝜃)2
𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = (𝑎 cos 𝜃 − 𝑏 sin 𝜃)(𝑎 cos 𝜃 − 𝑏 sin 𝜃) + (𝑎 sin 𝜃 + 𝑏 cos 𝜃)(𝑎 sin 𝜃 + 𝑏 cos 𝜃)
𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 𝑎2 cos2 θ − 2𝑎𝑏 cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃 + 𝑏2 sin2 θ + 𝑎2 sin2 θ + 2𝑎𝑏 cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃 + 𝑏2 cos2 θ
𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 𝑎2 cos 2 θ + 𝑏 2 sin2 θ + 𝑎2 sin2 θ + 𝑏 2 cos2 θ
𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 𝑎2 cos 2 θ + 𝑎2 sin2 θ + 𝑏 2 sin2 θ + 𝑏 2 cos2 θ
𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 𝑎2 (cos 2 θ + sin2 θ) + 𝑏 2 (sin2 θ + cos 2 θ)
𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 𝑎2 (1) + 𝑏 2 (1)
∴ 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 ; Hence proved.
29. If cos 𝜃 + sin 𝜃 = √2 cos 𝜃, show that cos 𝜃 − sin 𝜃 = √2 sin 𝜃.
Solution
cos 𝜃 + sin 𝜃 = √2 cos 𝜃 − − − −(i)
2
(cos 𝜃 + sin 𝜃)2 = (√2 cos 𝜃)
cos2 θ + sin2 θ + 2 cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃 = 2 cos2 θ
sin2 θ + 2 cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃 = 2 cos 2 θ − cos2 θ
sin2 θ + 2 cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃 = cos2 θ
2 cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃 = cos 2 θ − sin2 θ
cos2 θ − sin2 θ = 2 cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃
(cos 𝜃 − sin 𝜃)(cos 𝜃 + sin 𝜃) = 2 cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃 − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).
(cos 𝜃 − sin 𝜃)√2 cos 𝜃 = 2 cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(cos 𝜃−sin 𝜃)√2 cos 𝜃 2 cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃
=
√2 cos 𝜃 √2 cos 𝜃
2
cos 𝜃 − sin 𝜃 = ( ) sin 𝜃
√2
2 √2
cos 𝜃 − sin 𝜃 = ( ) ( ) sin 𝜃
√2 √2
2√2
cos 𝜃 − sin 𝜃 = ( ) sin 𝜃
2
∴ cos 𝜃 − sin 𝜃 = √2 sin 𝜃; Hence shown.
𝑎2 𝑏2
30. If 𝑥 = 𝑎 sin 𝜃 and 𝑦 = 𝑏 tan 𝜃, then prove that 𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2 = 1.
Solution
𝑥 = 𝑎 sin 𝜃
𝑎 1
= sin 𝜃
𝑥
𝑦 = 𝑏 tan 𝜃
𝑏 1
= tan 𝜃
𝑦
𝑎2 𝑏2
Required to prove that 𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2 = 1.
Consider LHS
𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑎 2 𝑏 2
2
− =( ) −( )
𝑥 𝑦2 𝑥 𝑦
𝑎2 𝑏2 1 2 1 2
− 𝑦 2 = (sin 𝜃) − (tan 𝜃)
𝑥2
𝑎2 𝑏2 1 1
− 𝑦 2 = sin2 𝜃 − tan2 𝜃
𝑥2
𝑎2 𝑏2 1 1
− 𝑦 2 = sin2 𝜃 − sin2 𝜃
𝑥2
cos2 𝜃
𝑎2 𝑏2 1 cos2 𝜃
− 𝑦 2 = sin2 𝜃 − sin2 𝜃
𝑥2
𝑎2 𝑏2 1−cos2 𝜃
− 𝑦2 =
𝑥2 sin2 𝜃
𝑎2 𝑏2 sin2 𝜃
− 𝑦 2 = sin2 𝜃
𝑥2
𝑎2 𝑏2
∴ 𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2 = 1; Hence proved.
sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴 1−𝑛2
31. If sin 𝐵 = 𝑚 and = 𝑛, prove that tan 𝐵 = ±√𝑚2 −1 ; 𝑛2 < 1 < 𝑚2 .
cos 𝐵
Solution
sin 𝐴
=𝑚
sin 𝐵
sin 𝐴 = 𝑚 sin 𝐵

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(sin 𝐴)2 = (𝑚 sin 𝐵)2
sin2 𝐴 = 𝑚2 sin2 𝐵 − − − −(i)
cos 𝐴
=𝑛
cos 𝐵
cos 𝐴 = 𝑛 cos 𝐵
(cos 𝐴)2 = (𝑛 cos 𝐵)2
cos2 𝐴 = 𝑛2 cos2 𝐵 − − − −(ii)
Add equations (i) and (ii).
sin2 𝐴 + cos 2 𝐴 = 𝑚2 sin2 𝐵 + 𝑛2 cos2 𝐵
1 = 𝑚2 sin2 𝐵 + 𝑛2 cos2 𝐵
1 𝑚2 sin2 𝐵 𝑛2 cos2 𝐵
= +
cos2 𝐵 cos2 𝐵 cos2 𝐵
1
= 𝑚2 tan2 𝐵 +𝑛 2
cos2 𝐵
sin2 𝐵+cos2 𝐵
= 𝑚 tan2 𝐵 + 𝑛2
2
cos2 𝐵
sin2 𝐵 cos2 𝐵
+ cos2 𝐵 = 𝑚2 tan2 𝐵 + 𝑛2
cos2 𝐵
tan 𝐵 + 1 = 𝑚2 tan2 𝐵 + 𝑛2
2

1 − 𝑛2 = 𝑚2 tan2 𝐵 − tan2 𝐵
(𝑚2 − 1) tan2 𝐵 = 1 − 𝑛2
1−𝑛2
tan2 𝐵 = 𝑚2 −1
1−𝑛2
∴ tan 𝐵 = ±√𝑚2 −1; Hence proved.
32. Define the term complementary angles.
Answer
Complementary angles are two angles whose sum is equal to a right angle.
Thus any angle 𝜃 and the angle 90° − 𝜃 are complementary.
33. Without using trigonometrical tables and calculators answer the following
questions:
√6
(a) If 𝛼 and 𝛽 are complementary angles and tan 𝛼 = , find the value of
3
tan 𝛽.
√3
(b) If 𝛼 and 𝛽 are complementary angles and sin 𝛼 = , find the value of
2
sin 𝛽.
Solution
°
(a) 𝛼 + 𝛽 = 90
From

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

√6
tan 𝛼 = 3
Consider the right – angled triangle below.

𝛽
√6

𝛼
3 3
tan 𝛽 =
√6
3 √6
tan 𝛽 = ( ) ( )
√6 √6
3√6
tan 𝛽 = 6
√6
∴ tan 𝛽 = 2
(b) Since 𝛼 and 𝛽 are complementary angles, then
𝛼 + 𝛽 = 90°
From

√3
sin 𝛼 = 2
Consider the right – angled triangle below.
C
𝛽
2 √3

𝛼
A 𝑥 B
From Pythagoras’ theorem,
̅̅̅̅)2 = (AB
(AC ̅̅̅̅)2 + (BC
̅̅̅̅)2
2
22 = 𝑥 2 + (√3)
𝑥2 = 4 − 3
𝑥2 = 1
√𝑥 2 = √1

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑥=1
1
∴ sin 𝛽 = 2
𝑟 √𝑠 𝑠
34. If tan 𝛽 = and tan 𝛼 = , show that cos 𝛽 = √𝑟 2 +𝑠, where 𝛼 and 𝛽 are
√𝑠 𝑟

complementary angles.
Solution
𝑟 √𝑠
Given: tan 𝛽 = and tan 𝛼 =
√𝑠 𝑟
Consider the right – angled triangle below.

𝛽
√𝑠

𝛼
𝑟
sin 𝛽 𝑟
=
cos 𝛽 √𝑠

√𝑠 sin 𝛽 = 𝑟 cos 𝛽
𝑟
sin 𝛽 = 𝑠 cos 𝛽
√
sin 𝛽 + cos2 𝛽 = 1
2
𝑟
But sin 𝛽 = 𝑠 cos 𝛽
√
𝑟 2
( 𝑠 cos 𝛽) + cos 2 𝛽 = 1
√
𝑟2
cos2 𝛽 + cos2 𝛽 = 1
𝑠
𝑟2
cos2 𝛽 ( 𝑠 + 1) = 1
𝑟2 1
cos2 𝛽 ( 𝑠 + 1) = 1
𝑟 2 +𝑠
cos2 𝛽 ( )=1
𝑠
𝑟 2 +𝑠
cos2 𝛽 ( )𝑠 = 𝑠
𝑠
cos2 𝛽 (𝑟 2
+ 𝑠) = 𝑠
(𝑟 2 +𝑠) 𝑠
cos2 𝛽 (𝑟 2 +𝑠) = 𝑟 2 +𝑠
𝑠
cos2 𝛽 = 𝑟 2 +𝑠
𝑠
∴ cos 𝛽 = √𝑟 2 +𝑠; Hence shown.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Consider ∆ ABC below.
C

A B
From the figure above,
From

̅̅̅̅
𝐵𝐶
sin 𝐴 = 𝐴𝐶
̅̅̅̅
− − − −(i)
̅̅̅̅
𝐴𝐵
cos 𝐴 = ̅̅̅̅ − − − −(ii)
𝐴𝐶
Also
∠𝐴 + ∠𝐶 = 90°
∠𝐶 = 90° − ∠𝐴
For convenience, we shall write 90° − 𝐴 instead of 90° − ∠𝐴.
From

̅̅̅̅
𝐴𝐵
sin(90° − 𝐴) = ̅̅̅̅
− − − −(iii)
𝐴𝐶
Substitute equation (ii) into equation (iii) above.
sin(90° − 𝐴) = cos 𝐴
̅̅̅̅
𝐵𝐶
cos(90° − 𝐴) = 𝐴𝐶
̅̅̅̅
− − − −(iv)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (iv) above.
cos(90° − 𝐴) = sin 𝐴
So
sin(90° − 𝐴) = cos 𝐴
cos(90° − 𝐴) = sin 𝐴,
for all values of angle A lying between 0° and 90° .
Task: Check whether this holds for 𝐴 = 0° or 𝐴 = 90° .
Also
sin(90° + 𝜃) = cos 𝜃 cos(90° + 𝜃) = − sin 𝜃
sin(180° − 𝜃) = sin 𝜃 cos(180° − 𝜃) = − cos 𝜃

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
sin(180° + 𝜃) = − sin 𝜃 cos(180° + 𝜃) = − cos 𝜃
Positive and negative angles
All angles may be positive or negative depending on the direction in which the
angle is measured. An angle may be measured in a clockwise or anticlockwise
direction as shown in the figure below.
𝑦
P

θ
O −θ 𝑥

Q
Fig: Measurements of angles in a clockwise and anticlockwise directions
Angles measured in the clockwise direction from the positive x – axis are
negative. Angles measured in the anticlockwise direction from the positive x
– axis are positive.
The figures below illustrate how positive and negative angles can be located
in the four quadrants. The corresponding positive and negative angles whose
trigonometrical ratios are the same can easily be found.
90° Anticlockwise 90°
direction

180° 0° 180° 0°
360° 360°

Clockwise
270° 270° direction
Location of positive angles Location of negative angles
in the first quadrant in the fourth quadrant
Note:
 Each negative angle has an equivalent positive angle measured from the
same axis but in the anticlockwise direction.
For example; as −30° ≡ 330° , −120° ≡ 240° , −200° ≡ 160° ,
−300° ≡ 60° and so on.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
 The equivalent positive angles help to identify the quadrants in which the
angles lie.
Functions of negative angles
Let θ be any angle. Then
sin(−θ) = − sin θ
cos(−θ) = cos θ
tan(−θ) = − tan θ
35. Express each of the following in terms of the sine, cosine or tangent of an acute
angle:
(a) sin 238°
(b) cos(−263° )
(c) tan(−36° )
Solution
(a) sin 238 = − sin(238 − 180 = − sin 58°
° ° °)

(b) cos(−263° ) = cos 263° = − cos(263° − 180° ) = − cos 83°

(c) tan(−36° ) = − tan 36°
36. Find the following.
(a) sin(−30° )
(b) sin(−158° )
(c) cos(−44° )
(d) cos(−164° )
(e) tan(−45° )
(f) tan(−125° )
(g) tan(−222° )
(h) sin(−334° )
(i) cos(−220° )
(j) cos(−354° )
(k) tan(−235° )
(l) tan(−295° )
Solution
°) °
(a) sin(−30 = − sin 30 = −0.5000
(b) sin(−158° ) = − sin 158°
158° is in the second quadrant, where sine is positive.
sin(−158° ) = − sin 158° = − sin(180° − 158° ) = − sin 22°
− sin 22° = −0.3746
∴ sin(−158° ) = −0.3746

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(c) cos(−44° ) = cos 44° = 0.7193
(d) cos(−164° ) = cos 164°
164° is in the second quadrant, where cosine is negative.
cos(−164° ) = cos 164° = − cos(180° − 164° ) = − cos 16°
− cos 16° = −0.9613
∴ cos(−164° ) = −0.9613
(e) tan(−45° ) − tan 45° = −1.0000
(f) tan(−125° ) = − tan 125°
125° is in the second quadrant, where tangent is negative.
tan(−125° ) = − tan 125° = −[− tan(180° − 125° )] = tan 55°
tan 55° = 1.4281
∴ tan(−125° ) = 1.4281
(g) tan(−222° ) = − tan 222°
222° is in the third quadrant, where tangent is positive.
tan(−222° ) = − tan 222° = − tan(222° − 180° ) = − tan 42°
− tan 42° = −0.9004
∴ tan(−222° ) = −0.9004
(h) sin(−334° ) = − sin 334°
334° is in the fourth quadrant, where sine is negative.
sin(−334° ) = − sin 334° = −[− sin(360° − 334° )] = sin 26°
sin 26° = 0.4384
∴ sin(−334° ) = 0.4384
(i) cos(−220° ) = cos 220°
220° is in the third quadrant, where cosine is negative.
cos(−220° ) = cos 220° = − cos(220° − 180° ) = − cos 40°
− cos 40° = −0.7660
∴ cos(−220° ) = −0.7660
(j) cos(−354° ) = cos 354°
354° is in the fourth quadrant, where cosine is positive.
cos(−354° ) = cos 354° = cos(360° − 354° ) = cos 6°
cos 6° = 0.9945
∴ cos(−354° ) = 0.9945
(k) tan(−235° ) = − tan 235°
235° is in the third quadrant, where tangent is positive.
tan(−235° ) = − tan 235° = −[tan(235° − 180° )] = − tan 55°

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
− tan 55° = −1.4281
∴ tan(−235° ) = −1.4281
(l) tan(−295° ) = − tan 295°
295° is in the fourth quadrant, where tangent is negative.
tan(−295° ) = − tan 295° = −[− tan(360° − 295° )] = tan 65°
tan 65° = 2.1445
∴ tan(−295° ) = 2.1445
37. (a) What is trigonometric equation?
(a) Mention the strategy for solving trigonometric equations.
Answer
(a) Trigonometric equation is an equation involving an unknown quantity
under the sign of a trigonometric function.
(b) The following are the strategy for solving trigonometric equations:
(i) Rearrange the equation to make sine, cosine or tangent the subject.
(ii) Use a mathematical table or a calculator (if necssary) to find the
principal value.
(iii)Using a graph or by adding multiples of the period find solutions in the
acceptable range of angles.
38. (a) Find the values of 𝜃 for which 4 sin 𝜃 = 3 such that 0° ≤ 𝜃 ≤ 360° .
(b) Solve the equation 2 sin 𝜃 = 1, giving values of 𝜃 from 0° to 360°
inclusive.
Solution
(a) 4 sin 𝜃 = 3
3
sin 𝜃 = 4
sin 𝜃 = 0.7500
The value of sin 𝜃 is positive in the first and second quadrants.
1st case: In the fist quadrant.
sin 𝜃 = 0.7500
𝜃 = sin−1 (0.7500)
𝜃 = 48.6°
2nd case: In the second quadrant.
sin 𝜃 = 0.7500
sin(180° − θ) = 0.7500
180° − θ = sin−1(0.7500)
180° − θ = 48.6°
θ = 131.4°

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
∴ The values of 𝜃 are 48.6° and 131.4° .
(b) 2 sin 𝜃 = 1
1
sin 𝜃 = 2
The value of sin 𝜃 is positive in the first and second quadrants.
1st case: In the fist quadrant.
sin 𝜃 = 0.5000
𝜃 = sin−1 (0.5000)
𝜃 = 30°
2nd case: In the second quadrant.
1
sin 𝜃 = 2
1
sin(180° − θ) = 2
180° − θ = sin−1(0.5000)
180° − θ = 30°
θ = 180° − 30°
θ = 150°
∴ The values of 𝜃 are 30° and 150° .
1
39. (a) Solve for 𝜃, given that 0° < 𝜃 < 360° and sin 𝜃 = − 2.
1 2
(b) Find all values of 𝜃 between 0° and 360° for which sin 𝜃 = − .
√3
Solution
1
(a) sin 𝜃 = − 2
The value of sin 𝜃 is negative in the third and fourth quadrants.
1st case: In the third quadrant.
1
− sin(θ − 180° ) = − 2
1
sin(θ − 180° ) = 2
1
θ − 180° = sin−1 (2)
θ − 180° = 30°
θ = 210°
2nd case: In the fourth quadrant.
1
− sin(360° − θ) = − 2
1
sin(360° − θ) = 2
1
360° − θ = sin−1 (2)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
360° − θ = 30°
θ = 330°
∴ The values of 𝜃 are 210° and 330° .
1 2
(b) =−
sin 𝜃 √3
√3
sin 𝜃 = −2
The value of sin 𝜃 is negative in the third and fourth quadrants.
1st case: In the third quadrant.
√3
− sin(θ − 180° ) = − 2
√3
sin(θ − 180° ) = 2
√3
θ − 180° = sin−1 ( 2 )
θ − 180° = 60 °

θ = 240°
2nd case: In the fourth quadrant.
√3
− sin(360° − θ) = − 2
√3
sin(360° − θ) =
2
√3
360° − θ = sin−1 ( 2 )
360° − θ = 60 °

θ = 300°
∴ The values of 𝜃 are 240° and 300° .
√3
40. Find angle θ, if cos 𝜃 = − , and 0° ≤ 𝜃 ≤ 360° .
2
Solution
√3
cos 𝜃 = − 2
The value of cos 𝜃 is negative in the second and third quadrants.
1st case: In the second quadrant.
√3
− cos(180° − θ) = − 2
√3
cos(180° − θ) = 2
−1 √3
180° − θ = cos ( 2 )
180° − θ = 30 °

𝜃 = 150°

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
2nd case: In the third quadrant.
√3
− cos(θ − 180° ) = − 2
√3
cos(θ − 180° ) = 2
−1 √3
θ − 180° = cos ( 2 )
θ − 180° = 30 °

θ = 210°
∴ The values of 𝜃 are 150° and 210° .
41. Solve each of the following trigonometric equations in the range given.
(a) sin 𝜃 = 2 cos 𝜃 0° ≤ 𝜃 < 360°
(b) 2 sin 𝜃 = cos 𝜃 0° ≤ 𝜃 < 360°
Solution
(a) sin 𝜃 = 2 cos 𝜃
sin 𝜃 2 cos 𝜃
=
cos 𝜃 cos 𝜃
tan 𝜃 = 2.0000
The value of tan 𝜃 is positive in the first and third quadrants.
1st case: In the first quadrant.
tan 𝜃 = 2.0000
𝜃 = tan−1 (2.0000)
𝜃 = 63.4°
2nd case: In the third quadrant.
tan(θ − 180° ) = 2
θ − 180° = tan−1(2.0000)
θ − 180° = 63.4°
θ = 63.4° + 180°
𝜃 = 243.4°
∴ The values of 𝜃 are 63.4° and 243.4° .
(b) 2 sin 𝜃 = cos 𝜃
sin 𝜃 1
=2
cos 𝜃
tan 𝜃 = 0.5000
The value of tan 𝜃 is positive in the first and third quadrants.
1st case: In the first quadrant.
tan 𝜃 = 0.5000
𝜃 = tan−1 (0.5000)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝜃 = 26.6°
2nd case: In the third quadrant.
tan(θ − 180° ) = 0.5000
θ − 180° = tan−1(0.5000)
θ − 180° = 26.6°
θ = 26.6° + 180°
𝜃 = 206.6°
∴ The values of 𝜃 are 26.6° and 206.6° .
42. Find all angles 𝜃 between 0° and 360° when:
(a) sin 𝜃 = 0.6293
(b) cos 𝜃 = −0.3256
(c) tan 𝜃 = −1.2799
Solution
(a) sin 𝜃 = 0.6293
The value of sin 𝜃 is positive in the first and second quadrants.
1st case: In the fist quadrant.
sin 𝜃 = 0.6293
𝜃 = sin−1 (0.6293)
𝜃 = 39°
2nd case: In the second quadrant.
sin 𝜃 = 0.6293
sin(180° − θ) = 0.6293
180° − θ = sin−1(0.6293)
180° − θ = 39°
θ = 141°
∴ The values of 𝜃 are 39° and 141° .
(b) cos 𝜃 = −0.3256
The value of cos 𝜃 is negative in the second and third quadrants.
1st case: In the second quadrant.
− cos(180° − θ) = −0.3256
cos(180° − θ) = 0.3256
180° − θ = cos −1 (0.3256)
180° − θ = 71°
𝜃 = 109°
2nd case: In the third quadrant.
− cos(θ − 180° ) = −0.3256

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
cos(θ − 180° ) = 0.3256
θ − 180° = cos −1 (0.3256)
θ − 180° = 71°
θ = 251°
∴ The values of 𝜃 are 109° and 251° .
(c) tan 𝜃 = −1.2799
The value of tan 𝜃 is negative in the second and fourth quadrants.
1st case: In the second quadrant.
− tan(180° − 𝜃) = −1.2799
tan(180° − 𝜃) = 1.2799
180° − 𝜃 = tan−1 (1.2799)
180° − 𝜃 = 52°
𝜃 = 128°
2nd case: In the fourth quadrant.
− tan(360° − θ) = −1.2799
tan(360° − θ) = 1.2799
360° − 𝜃 = tan−1 (1.2799)
360° − 𝜃 = 52°
𝜃 = 308°
∴ The values of 𝜃 are 128° and 308° .
43. Solve each of the following trigonometric equations in the range given.
(a) sin 𝜃 + 3 cos 𝜃 = 0 0° ≤ 𝜃 < 360°
(b) 4 cos 𝜃 − 3 sin 𝜃 = 0 0° ≤ 𝜃 < 360°
Solution
(a) sin 𝜃 + 3 cos 𝜃 = 0
sin 𝜃 = −3 cos 𝜃
sin 𝜃 −3 cos 𝜃
=
cos 𝜃 cos 𝜃
tan 𝜃 = −3.0000
The value of tan 𝜃 is negative in the second and fourth quadrants.
1st case: In the second quadrant.
− tan(180° − 𝜃) = −3.0000
tan(180° − 𝜃) = 3.0000
180° − 𝜃 = tan−1 (3.0000)
180° − 𝜃 = 71.6°
𝜃 = 180° − 71.6°

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝜃 = 108.4°
2nd case: In the fourth quadrant.
− tan(360° − θ) = −3.0000
tan(360° − θ) = 3.0000
360° − 𝜃 = tan−1 (3.0000)
360° − 𝜃 = 71.6°
𝜃 = 360° − 71.6°
𝜃 = 288.4°
∴ The values of 𝜃 are 108.4° and 288.4° .
(b) 4 cos 𝜃 − 3 sin 𝜃 = 0
3 sin 𝜃 = 4 cos 𝜃
4
tan 𝜃 = 3
tan 𝜃 = 1.3333
The value of tan 𝜃 is positive in the first and third quadrants.
1st case: In the first quadrant.
tan 𝜃 = 1.3333
𝜃 = tan−1 (1.3333)
𝜃 = 53.1°
2nd case: In the third quadrant.
tan(θ − 180° ) = 1.3333
θ − 180° = tan−1(1.3333)
θ − 180° = 53.1°
θ = 53.1° + 180°
𝜃 = 233.1°
∴ The values of 𝜃 are 53.1° and 233.1° .
44. Solve
(a) 4 sin 𝜃 − 3 cos 𝜃 = 0 for 0° ≤ 𝜃 ≤ 360° .
(b) cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃 = 2 sin 𝜃 for 0° ≤ 𝜃 ≤ 360° .
Solution
(a) 4 sin 𝜃 − 3 cos 𝜃 = 0
4 sin 𝜃 = 3 cos 𝜃
sin 𝜃 3
=4
cos 𝜃
tan 𝜃 = 0.7500
The value of tan 𝜃 is positive in the first and third quadrants.
1st case: In the first quadrant.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
tan 𝜃 = 0.7500
𝜃 = tan−1 (0.7500)
𝜃 = 36.9°
2nd case: In the third quadrant.
tan(θ − 180° ) = 0.7500
θ − 180° = tan−1(0.7500)
θ − 180° = 36.9°
θ = 216.9°
∴ The values of 𝜃 are 36.9° and 216.9° .
(b) cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃 = 2 sin 𝜃
cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃 − 2 sin 𝜃 = 0
sin 𝜃 (cos 𝜃 − 2) = 0
sin 𝜃 = 0 or cos 𝜃 − 2 = 0
sin 𝜃 = 0 or cos 𝜃 = 2
When sin 𝜃 = 0
𝜃 = sin−1 (0)
𝜃 = 0°
When sin 𝜃 = 0, 𝜃 = 0° , 180° , 360° .
When cos 𝜃 = 2
The value of cos 𝜃 is positive in the first and fourth quadrants.
cos 𝜃 = 2.0000
𝜃 = cos −1(2.0000)
When cos 𝜃 = 2 there are no solutions.
∴ The values of 𝜃 are 0° , 180° and 360° .
45. Solve the equation tan 𝜃 = −2 for 0° ≤ 𝜃 ≤ 360° .
Solution
tan 𝜃 = −2
The value of tan 𝜃 is negative in the second and fourth quadrants.
1st case: In the second quadrant.
tan 𝜃 = −2
− tan(180° − 𝜃) = −2
tan(180° − 𝜃) = 2
180° − 𝜃 = tan−1 (2.0000)
180° − 𝜃 = 63.4°
𝜃 = 116.6°
2nd case: In the fourth quadrant.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
− tan(360° − θ) = −2
tan(360° − θ) = 2
360° − θ = tan−1 (2.0000)
360° − θ = 63.4°
𝜃 = 296.6°
∴ The values of 𝜃 are 116.6° and 296.6° . (Notice that they are in the second
and fourth quadrants, where tan 𝜃 is negative).
46. Give the values of the three trigonometric ratios (sine, cosine and tangent) of
0° , 30° , 45° , 60° and 90° .
Solution
Let 𝜃 represent the given angles.
From

∠𝜃 0° 30° 45° 60° 90°

sin 𝜃 0 1 √2 √3 1
2 2 2

√3 √2 1
cos 𝜃 1 2 2 0
2
√3 1 √3 Not defined
tan 𝜃 0
3
Note: From the table above you can observe that as ∠𝜃 increases from
0° to 90° , sin 𝜃 increases from 0 to 1 and cos 𝜃 decreases from 1 to 0.
47. Evaluate the following trigonometric ratios:
(a) sin 420° (b) cos 600° (c) tan 510°
Solution
√3
(a) sin 420° = sin(420° − 360° ) = sin 60° = .
2
√3
∴ sin 420° = .
2
(b) cos 600° = cos(600° − 360° ) = cos 240°
1
cos 240° = − cos(240° − 180° ) = − cos 60° = − 2.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
1
∴ cos 600° = − .
2
(c) tan 510 = tan(510° − 360° ) = tan 150°
°

√3
tan 150° = − tan(180° − 150° ) = − tan 30° = − .
3
√3
∴ tan 510° = − .
3
48. Without mathematical tables find the numerical value of the following:
sin(150° ) cos(315° )
(a) tan(300° )
1 2 3
(b) + cos2 45° + tan2 45°
sin2 45°
Solution
sin(150° ) cos(315° ) sin(180° −150° ) cos(360° −315° )
(a) =
tan(300° ) − tan(360° −300° )
sin(150° ) cos(315° ) sin(30° ) cos(45° )
=
tan(300° ) − tan(60° )
From

1 √2
sin(150° ) cos(315° ) ×
= 2−√32
tan(300° )
√2
sin(150° ) cos(315° ) 4
=
tan(300° ) −√3
sin(150° ) cos(315° ) 1 √2
= −4( )
tan(300° ) √3

sin(150° ) cos(315° ) 1 2
= − 4 (√3)
tan(300° )

sin(150° ) cos(315° ) 1 2
∴ = − 4 √3
tan(300° )
2 2 2
1 2 3 1 √2 √3
(b) + cos2 45° + tan2 45° = (sin 45° ) + (cos 45° ) + (tan 45° )
sin2 45°
2 2 2
1 2 3 1 √2 √3
+ cos2 45° + tan2 45° = ( √2 ) + ( √2 ) + ( 1 )
sin2 45°
2 2
2 2 2
1 2 3 2 2√2
+ cos2 45° + tan2 45° = ( ) + ( ) + (√3)
sin2 45° √2 √2

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
2
1 2 3 2 √2
+ cos2 45° + tan2 45° = [( ) ( )] + 22 + 3
sin2 45° √2 √2
2
1 2 3 2√2
+ cos2 45° + tan2 45° = ( ) +4+3
sin2 45° 2
1 2 3 2
+ cos2 45° + tan2 45° = (√2) + 4 + 3
sin2 45°
1 2 3
+ cos2 45° + tan2 45° = 2 + 4 + 3
sin2 45°
1 2 3
∴ sin2 45° + cos2 45° + tan2 45° = 9
Using the Trigonometric Tables
1st case: Natural Sines Table
To find 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝟏𝟓° : The sine of an angle with an exact number of degrees can be
found in the column headed 0. Thus sin 15° = 0.2588
To find 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝟏𝟓° 𝟑𝟔′: The value will be founded under the column headed 36′
in the sin 15° row. Thus sin 15° 36′ = 0.2689
To find 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝟏𝟓° 𝟒𝟎′: As the number of minutes is not an exact multiple of 6,
we have to use the table of mean differences. We have found the value of
sin 15° 36′ to be 0.2689 and 40′ is 4′ more than 36′ . Looking at the mean
difference column we find the value of 4′ on this row to be 11. Thus
sin 15° 40′ = 0.2689 + 11 = 0.2700
To find the angle whose sine is 0.5113: Look at the table of natural sines and
find the number which is nearest to, but lower than, the number 0.5113. This
is found to be 0.5105 which corresponds to the angle 30° 42′ . 0.5105 is 0.0008
less than 0.5113 so we look in the mean defference columns in the row marked
30° and find 8 in the column headed 3′ .
Thus the angle whose sine is 0.5113 = 30° 42′ + 3′ = 30° 45′
2nd case: Natural Cosines Table
Here, the mean differences are subtracted.
Thus cos 73° 22′ = 0.2874 − 11 = 0.2863 and the angle whose cosine is
0.9586 = 0.9588 − 0.0002 = 16° 30′ + 2′ = 16° 32′
3rd case: Natural Tangent Table
The natural tangents table is read in exactly the same way as the natural sines
table.
Thus tan 65° 33′ = 2.1943 + 51 = 2.1994 and
The angle whose tangent is 0.7660 = 0.7646 + 14 = 37° 24′ + 3′ = 37° 27′
49. Use mathematical table to find the values of the following:
(a) sin 67° 43′ (b) cos 13° 28′ (c) tan 56° 54′
Solution
° ′
(a) sin 67 43 = 0.9252 + 1 = 0.9253
(b) cos 13° 28′ = 0.9728 − 3 = 0.9725
(c) tan 56° 54′ = 1.5340
50. Determine,
(a) 6 cos 62° 12′ correct to three decimal places.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(b) 3 sin 66° 41′ correct to four decimal places.
(c) 5 cos 14° 15′ correct to three decimal places.
Solution
° ′
(a) 6 cos 62 12 = 6(0.4664) = 2.7984
∴ 6 cos 62° 12′ = 2.798 (correct to three decimal places).
(b) 3 sin 66° 41′ = 3(0.9178 + 6) = 3(0.9184) = 2.7552
∴ 3 sin 66° 41′ = 2.7552 (correct to four decimal places).
(c) 5 cos 14° 15′ = 5(0.9694 − 2) = 5(0.9692) = 4.846
∴ 5 cos 14° 15′ = 4.846 (correct to three decimal places).
51. Evaluate,
4.2 tan 49° 26′ −3.7 sin 66° 1′
(a) correct to three significant figures.
7.1 cos 29° 34 ′
4.5 cos 67° 34′ −sin 90°
(b) correct to four decimal places.
2 tan 45°
Solution
4.2 tan 49° 26′ −3.7 sin 66° 1′ 4.2(1.1667+14)−3.7(0.9135+1)
(a) =
7.1 cos 29° 34 ′ 7.1(0.8704−6)
4.2 tan 49° 26′ −3.7 sin 66° 1′ 4.2(1.1681)−3.7(0.9136)
=
7.1 cos 29° 34 ′ 7.1(0.8698)
4.2 tan 49° 26′ −3.7 sin 66° 1′ 4.90602−3.38032
=
7.1 cos 29° 34 ′ 6.17558
4.2 tan 49° 26′ −3.7 sin 66° 1′ 1.5257
=
7.1 cos 29° 34 ′ 6.17558
4.2 tan 49° 26′ −3.7 sin 66° 1′
∴ = 0.247 (correct to three significant figures).
7.1 cos 29° 34′
4.5 cos 67° 34′ −sin 90° 4.5(0.3827−11)−1
(b) =
2 tan 45° 2(1)
4.5 cos 67° 34′ −sin 90° 4.5(0.3816)−1
=
2 tan 45° 2
4.5 cos 67° 34′ −sin 90° 1.7172−1
=
2 tan 45° 2
4.5 cos 67° 34′ −sin 90° 0.7172
=
2 tan 45° 2
4.5 cos 67° 34′ −sin 90°
∴ = 0.3586 (correct to four decimal places).
2 tan 45°
52. What is one example of the real life problems where the trigonometrical ratios
can be used?
Answer
The trigonometrical ratios can be used in surveying to determine the angle of
elevation and depression of buildings, trees, mountains, and many others.
53. Define the following terms:
(a) Line of sight (b) Angle of elevation (c) Angle of depression.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Answers
(a) Line of sight is the line drawn from the eye of an observer to the point in
the object viewed by the observer.
(b) Angle of elevation is the angle formed by the line of sight with the
horizontal when the point being viewed is above the ground level.
Note: If you look upwards at an object, the angle formed between the
horizontal and your line of sight is called the angle of elevation.
(c) Angle of depression is the angle formed by the line of sight with the
horizontal when the point is below the horizontal level.
Note: If you look downwards at an object, the angle formed between the
horizontal and your line of sight is called the angle of depression.
In the diagram below, ∠CBA is an angle of elevation, since the point A is
elevated with respect to an observer at B. ∠DAB is an angle of depression,
since the point B is depressed with respect to an observer at A.
A Horizontal D
Angle of depression

Angle of elevation
Horizontal B
Note: C
 In surveying and navigation problems involving right triangles, the terms
angle of elevation and angle of depression are used.
 Trigonometrical ratios can be used in solving real life problems.
 The height or length of an object or the distance between two distant
objects can be determined with the help of trigonometric ratios.
 In surveying, trigonometrical ratios can be used to determine the angle
of elevation and depression of buildings, trees, mountains, and many
others.
54. Is the value of tan 𝜃 (𝜃 < 90° ) increases as 𝜃 increases?
Answer
Yes. Consider the figure below.
A

𝜃 𝜃1 𝜃2
B B1 B2 C
In the figure above, B is moved closer to C along BC. It is observed that:

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(i) 𝜃 increases (as 𝜃1 > 𝜃, 𝜃2 > 𝜃1 , … ) and
(ii) BC decreases (B1 C < BC, B2 C < B1 C … )
Thus the perpendicular AC remains fixed and the base BC decreases. Hence
tan 𝜃 increases as 𝜃 increases.
55. Is tan 𝜃 increases faster than sin 𝜃 as 𝜃 increses?
Answer
Yes. We know that sin 𝜃 increases as 𝜃 increses but cos 𝜃 decreases as 𝜃
increases.
sin 𝜃
We have tan 𝜃 = cos 𝜃
Now as 𝜃 increses, sin 𝜃 increases but cos 𝜃 decreases. Therefore, in case of
tan 𝜃, the numerator increases and the denominator decreases. But in case of
sin 𝜃
sin 𝜃 which can be seen as 1 , only the numerator increase but the
denominator remains fixed at 1.
∴ tan 𝜃 increases faster than sin 𝜃 as 𝜃 increses.
56. A six – foot person walks from the base of a streetlight directly toward the tip
of the shadow cast by the streetlight. When the person is 16 feet from the
streetlight and 5 feet from the tip of the streetlight’s shadow, the person’s
shadow starts to appear beyond the streetlight’s shadow.
(a) Draw a right triangle that gives a visual representation of the problem.
Show the known quantities and use a variable to indicate the height of the
streetlight.
(b) Use a trigonometric function to write an equation involving the unknown
quantity.
(c) What is the height of the streetlight?
Solution
(a) Let h be the height of the streetlight, then consider the figure below.
Streetlight
E

Person
ℎ D

6 ft
𝜃
A 16 ft B 5 ft C
ℎ
(b) tan 𝜃 = (16+5) ft
ℎ
∴ tan 𝜃 = 21 ft
6 ft
(c) tan 𝜃 =
5 ft

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
6
tan 𝜃 = − − − −(i)
5
ℎ
tan 𝜃 = 21 ft
ℎ = (21 tan 𝜃) ft − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).
6
ℎ = (21 × 5 ) ft
ℎ = 25.2 ft
∴ The height of the streetlight is 25.2 ft.
57. In the figure below, M is the mid – point of ̅̅ ̅̅.
XZ
X

θ
32°
Y 6 cm Z
̅̅̅̅.
(a) Calculate MZ
̅̅̅̅.
(b) Hence write down the value of XZ
(c) Calculate θ.
Solution
(a) From

̅̅̅̅̅
MZ
tan 32° = 6 cm
̅̅̅̅ = (6 tan 32° ) cm
MZ
̅̅̅̅ = (6 × 0.6249) cm
MZ
̅̅̅̅ = 3.75 cm
∴ MZ
(b) XZ = ̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅ XM + MZ ̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅
But XM = MZ ̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅ = MZ
XZ ̅̅̅̅ + MZ̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅ = 2MZ
XZ ̅̅̅̅
̅̅
XZ̅̅ = 2(3.75 cm)
∴ ̅̅
XZ̅̅ = 7.5 cm
̅̅̅̅
XZ
(c) tan(θ + 32° ) = ̅̅̅̅ YZ
7.5 cm
tan(θ + 32° ) = 6 cm
tan(θ + 32° ) = 1.2500
θ + 32° = tan−1(1.2500)
θ + 32° = 51.3°

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
θ = 51.3° − 32°
∴ θ = 19.3°
58. Consider the figure given below.
A

𝑏
B

ℎ
°
60
30°
D 𝑥 C
𝑏
Show that ℎ = 2.
Solution
Consider ∆BCD
From,

ℎ
tan 30° = 𝑥
ℎ = 𝑥 tan 30°

√3
ℎ= 3 𝑥
3ℎ = 𝑥√3
3ℎ
𝑥=
√3
3ℎ √3
𝑥 = ( )( )
√3 √3
3ℎ√3
𝑥= 3
𝑥 = ℎ√3 − − − −(i)
Consider ∆ACD
𝑏+ℎ
tan 60° = 𝑥
𝑏 + ℎ = 𝑥 tan 60°
𝑏 + ℎ = 𝑥√3 − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii) above.
𝑏 + ℎ = (ℎ√3)(√3)
𝑏 + ℎ = 3ℎ
𝑏 = 3ℎ − ℎ

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑏 = 2ℎ
𝑏
∴ ℎ = 2; Hence shown.
59. A rope 15 m long is stretched out from the top of a flag – post 10 m high to
a point on a level ground.
(a) What angle does it make with the ground?
(b) How far is this point from the foot of the flag post?
Solution
Let x be the distance from the foot of the flag post to the point and θ be the
angle that the rope makes with the ground then, present the information as
shown in the following figure.

15 m
10 m

θ
𝑥
(a) From

10 m
sin θ = 15 m
sin θ = 0.6667
θ = sin−1(0.6667)
θ = 41° 49′
∴ The rope makes 41° 49′ with the ground.
𝑥
(b) cos θ = 15 𝑚
𝑥
cos 41° 49′ = 15 𝑚
𝑥 = 15 𝑚 × cos 41° 49′
𝑥 = 15 𝑚 × 0.7453
𝑥 = 11.1795 𝑚
𝑥 ≈ 11.18 𝑚
∴ The point is 11.18 m from the foot of the flag post.
60. Two poles of equal heights are standing opposite each other on either side of
the road, which is 80 m wide. From a point between them on the road, the
angles of elevations of the top of the poles are 60° and 30° , respectively. Find:
(a) The height of the poles. (Leave your answer in radical form)
(b) The distance of the point from the poles.
Solution

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Let h be the height of the poles then, consider the figure below.
D A

ℎ ℎ

30° 60°
C E B
𝑥
80 m − 𝑥
80 m
(a) From

ℎ
tan 30° = 𝑥
ℎ
𝑥 = tan 30° − − − −(i)
ℎ
tan 60° = 80−𝑥
ℎ
80 − 𝑥 = tan 60° − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii) above.
ℎ ℎ
80 − tan 30° = tan 60°
ℎ ℎ
+ tan 30° = 80
tan 60°
1 1
ℎ (tan 60° + tan 30° ) = 80
tan 30° +tan 60°
ℎ ( tan 30° tan 60° ) = 80

√3
+√3
3
ℎ (√3 ) = 80
×√3
3
√3 √3
+
3 1
ℎ( 3 ) = 80
3
√3+3√3
ℎ( ) = 80
3

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
ℎ(√3 + 3√3) = 3 × 80
240
ℎ=
√3+3√3
240 √3−3√3
ℎ=( )( )
√3+3√3 √3−3√3
240(√3−3√3)
ℎ= 3−9+9−27
240(−2√3)
ℎ= −24
−240(2√3)
ℎ= −24
ℎ = 10(2√3)
ℎ = 20√3 m
∴ The height of the poles is 20√3 m.
(b) Substitute ℎ = 20√3 into equation (i) above.
20√3
𝑥 = tan 30°
20√3
𝑥= √3
3
20√3 √3
𝑥= ÷
1 3
20√3 3
𝑥= ×
1 √3
𝑥 = 60 m
80 m − 𝑥 = 80 m − 60 m = 20 m
∴ The position of the point is at a distance of 60 m from pole CD and 20
m from pole AB.
61. Flora wishes to find the width ̅̅̅̅
XY of the Mori river. She measures a distance
̅̅̅̅
AB = 100 m along the bank of the river. She observes that a point X on the
other bank of the river is such that XÂ B = 49° and XB̂ A = 58° .
X

49° 58°
A Y B
100 m
Find the width of the river.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Solution
Let h be the width (XY) of the river and l be ̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅ BY.
X

49° 58°
A 100 m − 𝑙 Y 𝑙 B

100 m
From

ℎ
tan 58° = 𝑙
ℎ
𝑙 = tan 58° − − − −(i)
ℎ
tan 49° = 100 −𝑙
(100 − 𝑙) tan 49° = ℎ
(100 −𝑙) tan 49° ℎ
= tan 49°
tan 49°
ℎ
100 − 𝑙 = tan 49°
ℎ
𝑙 = 100 − tan 49° − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii) above.
ℎ ℎ
= 100 − tan 49°
tan 58°
ℎ ℎ
+ tan 49° = 100
tan 58°
1 1
ℎ (tan 58° + tan 49° ) = 100
tan 49° +tan 58°
ℎ ( tan 49° tan 58° ) = 100
tan 49° +tan 58°
ℎ ( tan 49° tan 58° ) tan 49° tan 58° = 100 tan 49° tan 58°
ℎ(tan 49° + tan 58° ) = 100 tan 49° tan 58°
ℎ(tan 49° +tan 58° ) 100 tan 49° tan 58°
tan 49° +tan 58°
= tan 49° +tan 58°
100 tan 49° tan 58°
ℎ= tan 49° +tan 58°

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
100×1.1504×1.6003
ℎ=
1.1504+1.6003
100×1.1504×1.6003
ℎ= 2.7507
ℎ = 66.9 m
∴ The width of the river is 66.9 m.
62. The angle of elevation of the top of a wall from the foot of the tower is 30°
and the angle of elevation of the top of the tower from the foot of the wall is
60° . If the tower is 50 m high, find the height of the wall.
Solution
Let h be the height of the wall, x be the distance between the wall and the tower
then, consider the figure below.
D

A 50 m

ℎ
60° 30°
B C
𝑥
From

̅̅̅̅
DC
tan 60° = ̅̅̅̅
BC
50
tan 60° = 𝑥
50
𝑥 = tan 60° − − − −(i)
̅̅̅̅
AB
tan 30° = ̅̅̅̅
BC
ℎ
tan 30° = 𝑥
ℎ = 𝑥 tan 30° − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii) above.
50
ℎ = (tan 60° ) tan 30°

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

50 √3
ℎ = ( )( 3 )
√3
50
ℎ= 3
2
∴ The height of the wall is 16 3 m.
63. Calculate ̅̅̅̅̅
WX, given ̅̅̅̅ = 15 m.
YZ
W

40° 20°
X Y Z
Solution
From

̅̅̅̅̅
WX
tan 40° = XY ̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅̅ = XY
WX ̅̅̅̅ tan 40° − − − −(i)
̅̅̅̅̅
WX
tan 20° = ̅̅̅̅
XZ
̅̅̅̅̅
WX
tan 20° = ̅̅̅̅+YZ ̅̅̅̅
XY
̅̅̅̅̅
WX
tan 20° = ̅̅̅̅+15
XY
̅̅̅̅̅
WX
̅̅
XY̅̅ + 15 =
tan 20°
̅̅̅̅̅
̅̅
XY̅̅ = WX ° − 15 − − − −(ii)
tan 20
Substitute equation (ii) into equation (i) above.
WX ̅̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅̅
WX = (tan 20° − 15) tan 40°
WX ̅̅̅̅̅
15
̅̅̅̅̅
WX = (tan 20° − 1 ) tan 40°
̅̅̅̅̅ °
̅̅̅̅̅ = (WX−15 tan° 20 ) tan 40°
WX tan 20
̅̅̅̅̅ tan 20° = (WX
WX ̅̅̅̅̅ − 15 tan 20° ) tan 40°

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
̅̅̅̅̅
WX tan 20° = ̅̅̅̅̅
WX tan 40° − 15 tan 20° tan 40°
̅̅̅̅̅ tan 20° − WX
WX ̅̅̅̅̅ tan 40° = −15 tan 20° tan 40°
̅̅̅̅̅(tan 20° − tan 40° ) = −15 tan 20° tan 40°
WX
°
−15 tan 20 tan 40 °
̅̅̅̅̅
WX = tan 20° −tan 40°
̅̅̅̅̅ = −15(0.3640)(0.8391)
WX 0.3640−0.8391
̅̅̅̅̅ = −4.581486
WX −0.4751
̅̅̅̅̅ = 9.64 m
∴ WX
64. The figure below represents plotting of two stations P and Q which are
4000 m apart. T is stationary target in the same vertical plane as P and Q. When
the distance of the target from station P is 10,000 m the angle of elevation is
30° .
T

10,000 m

30°

P 4,000 m Q X
Calculate:
(a) The vertical height of the target, TX.
(b) The distance PX, QX, and TQ.
(c) The angle of elevation of the target, T from Q.
Solution
(a) Consider triangle TXP.
From

TX
sin 30° = 10,000
TX = 10,000 sin 30°
TX = 10,000 × 0.5000
TX = 5,000
∴ The vertical height of the target, TX is 5,000 m.
(b) 1st case: The distance PX.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Consider ∆PTX.
PX
cos 30° = 10,000
PX = 10,000 cos 30°
PX = 10,000 × 0.8660
PX = 8660 m
∴ The distance PX is 8660 m.
2nd case: The distance QX.
PX = PQ + QX
8660 m = 4,000 m + QX
QX = 8660 m − 4,000 m
QX = 8660 m − 4,000 m
QX = 4660 m
∴ The distance QX is 4660 m.
3rd case: The distance TQ.
Consider ∆QTX.
From Pythagoras’ theorem,
(TQ)2 = (TX)2 + (QX)2
(TQ)2 = 5,0002 + 46602
(TQ)2 = 25,000,000 + 21,715,600
(TQ)2 = 46,715,600
√(TQ)2 = √46,715,600
TQ = 6,834.9
∴ The distance TQ is 6,834.9 m
(c) Let θ be the required angle of elevation, then look at the following figure.
T

10,000 m
5,000 m

30° θ
4,000 m Q 4,660 m X
P
From ∆QTX.
5,000 m
tan θ = 4,660 m
tan θ = 1.0730

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
θ = tan−1(1.0730)
θ = 47.01°
∴ The angle of elevation of the target, T from Q is 47.01° .
65. In the new Comiskey Park, the home of the Chicago White Sox baseball team,
the first row of seats in the upper deck is farther away from home plate than
the last row of seats in the old Comiskey Park. Although there is no obstructed
view in the new park, some of the fans still complain about the present distance
from home plate to the upper deck of seats. (Source : Chicago Tribune,
September 19, 1993). From a seat in the last row of the upper deck directly
behind the batter, the angle of depression to home plate is 29.9° , and the angle
of depression to the pitcher’s mound is 24.2° (see the figure below).

Find:
(a) The viewing distance to home plate.
(b) The viewing distance to the pitcher’s mound.
Solution
(a) From geometry we know that 𝜃1 = 29.9° and 𝜃2 = 24.2° . The standard
distance from home plate to the pitcher’s mound is 60.5 ft. In the drawing,
we let 𝑑1 be the viewing distance to home plate, 𝑑2 the viewing distance
to the pitcher’s mound, h the elevation of the last row, and x the horizontal
distance from the batter to a point directly below the seat in the last row of
the upper deck.
We begin by determining the distance x.
From

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

ℎ
tan 𝜃1 = 𝑥
ℎ
tan 29.9° = 𝑥
ℎ = 𝑥 tan 29.9° − − − −(i)
ℎ
tan 𝜃2 = 𝑥+60.5
ℎ
tan 24.2° = 𝑥+60.5
ℎ = (𝑥 + 60.5) tan 24.2° − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).
𝑥 tan 29.9° = (𝑥 + 60.5) tan 24.2°
𝑥 tan 29.9° = 𝑥 tan 24.2° + 60.5 tan 24.2°
𝑥 tan 29.9° − 𝑥 tan 24.2° = 60.5 tan 24.2°
𝑥(tan 29.9° − tan 24.2° ) = 60.5 tan 24.2°
60.5 tan 24.2°
𝑥 = tan 29.9° −tan 24.2°
60.5(0.4494)
𝑥 = 0.5750−0.4494
𝑥 = 216.5 ft
Then,
𝑥
cos 𝜃1 = 𝑑
1
𝑥
𝑑1 = cos 𝜃
1
216.5
𝑑1 = cos 29.9°
216.5
𝑑1 = 0.8669
𝑑1 = 249.7 ft
∴ The viewing distance to home plate is 249.7 ft.
𝑥+60.5
(b) cos 𝜃2 = 𝑑2
𝑥+60.5
𝑑2 = cos 𝜃2
216.5+60.5
𝑑2 = cos 24.2°
277
𝑑2 = 0.9121
𝑑2 = 303.7 ft
∴ The viewing distance to the pitcher’s mound is 303.7 ft.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
66. At a point A, the angle of elevation of a tower is found to be such that its
5
tangent is 12; on walking 240 feet nearer the tower the tangent of the angle of
3
elevation is found to be 4; what is the height of the tower?
Solution
Let the angles of elevation be θ1 and θ2 . Also let y be the height of the tower
then, consider the figure below.
D

θ1 θ2
A B C
240 ft 𝑥
𝑥 + 240 ft
From

𝑦
tan θ1 = 𝑥+240
5 𝑦
= 𝑥+240
12
5(𝑥 + 240) = 12𝑦
5𝑥 + 1200 = 12𝑦
5𝑥 − 12𝑦 = −1200 − − − −(i)
𝑦
tan θ2 = 𝑥
3 𝑦
=𝑥
4
3𝑥 = 4𝑦
4
𝑥 = 3 𝑦 − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (ii) into equation (i) above.
4
5 (3 𝑦) − 12𝑦 = −1200
4
3 [5 (3 𝑦)] − 3(12𝑦) = 3(−1200)
20𝑦 − 36𝑦 = −3600
−16𝑦 = −3600
𝑦 = 225 feet

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
∴ The height of the tower is 225 feet.
67. A ladder lies along a vertical wall. If the ladder makes angle of 75° 10′ and
60° 27′ to the horizontal with 3 m between the two angles. Find:
(a) The distance from the foot of the ladder to the wall.
(b) The length of the ladder.
Solution
(a) Consider the figure below where AD ̅̅̅̅ represents the length of the ladder,
̅̅̅̅ represents the distance from the foot of the ladder to the wall.
and BD
A

60° 27′ 75° 10′

D 3m C B
From

̅̅̅̅
AB
tan 75° 10′ = BC
̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅̅
AB = BC × tan 75° 10′
̅̅̅̅
AB = ̅̅̅̅
BC × 3.7769
̅̅̅̅ = 3.7769BC
AB ̅̅̅̅ − − − −(i)
̅̅̅̅
AB
tan 60° 27′ = ̅̅̅̅
BD
̅̅̅̅ = BD
AB ̅̅̅̅ × tan 60° 27′
̅̅̅̅
AB = ̅̅̅̅
BD × 1.7639
̅̅̅̅
AB = 1.7639BD ̅̅̅̅ − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation equation (i) into equation (ii) above.
3.7769BC ̅̅̅̅ = 1.7639BD̅̅̅̅
BD = ̅̅̅̅
But ̅̅̅̅ BC + ̅̅̅̅
CD
̅̅̅̅
3.7769BC = 1.7639(BC ̅̅̅̅ + ̅̅̅̅
CD)
3.7769BC ̅̅̅̅ = 1.7639(BC ̅̅̅̅ + 3)
̅̅̅̅
3.7769BC ̅̅̅̅+3)
1.7639(BC
=
1.7639 1.7639

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
̅̅̅̅ = ̅̅̅̅
2.1412BC BC + 3
̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅̅
2.1412BC − BC = 3
̅̅̅̅ = 3
1.1412BC
̅̅̅̅
1.1412BC 3
= 1.1412
1.1412
̅̅̅̅ = 2.63 m
BC
̅̅̅̅ + CD
̅̅̅̅ = BC
BD ̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅
BD = 2.63 m + 3 m
̅̅̅̅
BD = 5.63 m
∴ The distance from the foot of the ladder to the wall is 5.63 m.
̅̅̅̅
BD
(b) cos 60° 27′ = AD
̅̅̅̅̅
BD ̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅
AD = cos 60° 27′
5.63 m
̅̅̅̅
AD = 0.4931 = 11.4 m
∴ The length of the ladder is 11.4 m.
68. A hedgehog wishes to cross a road without being run over. He observes the
angle of elevation of a lamp post on the other side of the road to be 27° from
the edge of the road and 15° from a point 10 m back from the road.
(a) How wide is the road?
(b) If he can run at 1 m/s, how long will he take to cross?
Solution
(a) Let x be the width of the road and y be the height of the lamp post then
consider the figure below.
Road

𝑦
15° 27°
10 m 𝑥

From

𝑦
tan 27° = 𝑥
𝑦 = 𝑥 tan 27° − − − −(i)
𝑦
tan 15° =
𝑥+10

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑦 = (𝑥 + 10) tan 15° − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).
𝑥 tan 27° = (𝑥 + 10) tan 15°
𝑥 tan 27° = 𝑥 tan 15° + 10 tan 15°
𝑥 tan 27° − 𝑥 tan 15° = 10 tan 15°
𝑥(tan 27° − tan 15° ) = 10 tan 15°
10 tan 15°
𝑥 = tan 27° −tan 15°
10(0.2679)
𝑥 = 0.5095−0.2679
2.679
𝑥 = 0.2416
𝑥 = 11.1 m
∴ The width of the road is 11.1 m
Distance
(b) Speed = Time
11.1 m
1 m/s = t
11.1 m
𝑡= 1 m/s
𝑡 = 11.1 s
∴ He will take 11.1 seconds to cross the road.
69. A pole, 1.6 m tall, stands on the top of a wall. From a point on the ground, the
angle of elevation of the top of the pole is 60° and from the same point the
angle of elevation of the top of the wall is 45° . Find the height of the wall.
Solution
Let C be the point, x be the distance from the point to the wall and h be the
height of the wall then, consider the figure below.
D

1.6 m

A
ℎ + 1.6 m

ℎ
°
60
°
45
C B
𝑥
From

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

̅̅̅̅
AB
tan 45° = ̅̅̅̅
BC
ℎ
tan 45° = 𝑥
ℎ
1=𝑥
𝑥 = ℎ − − − −(i)
̅̅̅̅
DB
tan 60° = ̅̅̅̅
BC
ℎ+1.6
tan 60° = 𝑥

ℎ+1.6
√3 = 𝑥
ℎ+1.6
𝑥= − − − −(ii)
√3
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii) above.
ℎ+1.6
ℎ=
√3
ℎ√3 = ℎ + 1.6
ℎ√3 − ℎ = 1.6
ℎ(√3 − 1) = 1.6
1.6
ℎ=
√3−1
1.6 √3+1
ℎ=( )( )
√3−1 √3+1
1.6(√3+1)
ℎ = 3+√3−√3−1
1.6(√3+1)
ℎ= 2
ℎ = 0.8(√3 + 1)
∴ The height of the wall is 0.8(√3 + 1) 𝑚.
70. A flagstaff is on top of a building. At 80 m from the base of the wall, the angle
of elevation of the top of the flagstaff 38° , and the angle of elevation of the
bottom of the flagstaff is 32° . How tall is the flagstaff?
Solution

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Let y be the height of the flagstaff and h be the height of the wall.

From,

Opposite
Tan θ = Adjacent
° h
Tan 32 = 80
h = 80 tan 32° − − − −(i)
h+y
Tan 38° = 80 m
h + y = 80 tan 38° − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into (ii).
80 tan 32° + y = 80 tan 38°
y = 80 tan 38° − 80 tan 32°
y = 80(tan 38° − tan 32° )
y = 80(0.7813 − 0.6249)
y = 80 × 0.1564
y = 12.512 m ≈ 12.5
∴ The height of the flagstaff is 12.5 m.
71. At 20 m from the base of a building, the angle of elevation of the bottom of a
window is 15° , and the angle of elevation of the top is 17° . Find the height of
the window.
Solution
Let h be the height of the window.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

From,

Opposite
Tan θ = Adjacent
y
Tan 15° = 20
y = 20 tan 15° − − − −(i)
y+h
Tan 17° = 20 m
y + h = 20 tan 17° − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into (ii).
20 tan 15° + h = 20 tan 17°
h = 20 tan 17° − 20 tan 15°
h = 20(tan 17° − tan 15° )
h = 20(0.3057 − 0.2679)
h = 20 × 0.0378 = 0.756
∴ The height of the window is 0.756 m.
72. A person who is 30 m away from the foot of a tower observes the angles of
elevation to the bottom and top of a flagpole standing on the tower to be
64° and 66° respectively. Calculate the height of the flagpole.
Solution
Let h be the height of the flagpole and y be the height of the tower then,
consider the figure below.

ℎ+𝑦
𝑦

° 66°
64
30 m
From

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

𝑦
tan 64° = 30
𝑦 = 30 tan 64° − − − −(i)
ℎ+𝑦
tan 66° = 30
ℎ + 𝑦 = 30 tan 66° − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii) above.
ℎ + 30 tan 64° = 30 tan 66°
ℎ = 30 tan 66° − 30 tan 64°
ℎ = 30(tan 66° − tan 64° )
ℎ = 30(2.2460 − 2.0503)
ℎ = 30 × 0.1957
ℎ = 5.871
ℎ ≈ 5.87
∴ The height of the flagpole is 5.87 m
73. Omary found the distance of a windwsill from the top of a building as follows.
From a point 20 m from the base of the building, he measured the angle of
elevation of the windowsill to be 40° and the angle of elevation of the top of
the building to be 50° . He drew this sketch then used trigonometry to calculate
TB and WB.
T

50°
°
40
J 20 m B
(a) What further calculation did Omary need to make?
(b) How far is the windowsill from the top of the building? Write your answer
to the nearest metre.
Solution
(a) Once TB and WB are calculated, the only further calculation to be made is
subtracting WB from TB.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(b) From

WB
tan 40° = JB
° WB
tan 40 = 20 m
WB = (20 tan 40° )m
WB = (20 × 0.8391)m
WB = 16.782 m
TB
tan 50° = JB
° TW+WB
tan 50 = 20 m
° TW+16.782 m
tan 50 = 20 m
TW + 16.782 m = (20 tan 50° ) m
TW + 16.782 m = (20 × 1.1918) m
TW + 16.782 m = 23.836 m
TW = 23.836 m − 16.782 m
TW = 7.054 m
∴ To the nearest metre, the windowsill is 7 m from the top of the building.
74. From the top of a wall 25 m high the angle of elevation of the top of the tower
is 120 , see figure below. From the bottom of the wall the angle of elevation
of the top of the tower is 450 .

Determine:
(a) The height of the wall.
(b) The distance from the wall to the tower.
Solution
(a) Let h be height of the wall and y be the distance from the wall to the
tower, then look the figure below.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

From,
Opposite
Tan θ =
Adjacent
° h
Tan 45 = y
h
y = tan 450 − − − −(i)
Also,
h−25
Tan 12° = y
h−25
y = tan 120 − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into (ii).
h h−25
= tan 12°°
tan 45°
htan 12° = (h − 25) tan 45°
0.2126h = h − 25
0.2126h − h = −25
−0.7874h = −25
−0.7874h −25
=
−0.7874 −0.7874
h = 31.75
∴ The height of the wall is 31.75 m.
h
(b) y = tan 45°
31.75
y = tan 45°
31.75
y = 1 = 31.75
∴ The distance from the wall to the tower is 31.75 m.
75. A man 1.8 m tall stands 20 m from the foot of a tower which is 19.8 m high.
Find the angle of elevation of the top of the tower from his eye.
Solution

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Let θ be the angle of elevation of the top of the tower from the eye of the man
then, look at the two figures below.
A A

19.8m 19.8m
θ

1.8m 1.8m

20 m B 20 m B
Figure 1 Figure 2
Consider figure 2 above.
From

19.8−1.8
tan θ = 20
19.8−1.8
tan θ = 20
18
tan θ = 20
tan θ = 0.9000
θ = tan−1(0.9000)
θ = 42°
∴ The angle of elevation of the top of the tower from the eye of the man is 42° .
76. To find the height of a tower a surveyor sets up this theodolite 100 m from the
base of the tower. He finds that the angle of elevation to the top of the tower
is 30° . If the instrument is 1.5 m above the ground level, what is the height of
the tower?
Solution
Let H be the height of the tower.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

First, find y.
From,
Opposite
Tan θ =
Adjacent
y
Tan 30° = 100 m
y = 100 m × tan 30°
y = 100 m × 0.5773
y = 57.73 m
But,
H = y + 1.5 m
H = 57.73 m + 1.5 m
H = 59.23 m
∴ The height of the tower is 59.23 m.
77. The angle of elevation from the foot and the top of the ladder to the top of the
wall which is 20 m high are 40° and 20° respectively. Find;
(a) Distance from the foot of the ladder to the foot of the wall.
(b) The height of the ladder.
Solution
(a) Let y be the distance from the foot of the ladder to the foot of the wall
and h be the height of the ladder.

From,

Opposite
Tan θ =
Adjacent

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
20
Tan 40° =
y
20
y = tan 40°
20
y = 0.8391
y = 23.84
∴ Distance from the foot of the ladder to the foot of the wall is 23.84 m.
(b) From,
Opposite
Tan θ = Adjacent
20−h
Tan 20° = y
° 20−h
Tan 20 = 23.84
20 − h = 23.84 tan 20°
20 − h = 23.84 × 0.3640
20 − h = 8.67776
−h = 8.67776 − 20
−h = −11.32224
h ≈ 11.3
∴ The height of the ladder is 11.3 m.
78. The angle of elevation of the top of a building 24 m high is observed from
the top and from the bottom of a vertical ladder, and found to be 45° and 60°
respectively. Find:
(a) Distance from the foot of the ladder to the foot of the wall.
(b) The height of the ladder.
Solution
(a) Let x be the distance from the foot of the ladder to the foot of the wall
and h be the height of the ladder.

From,

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

Opposite
Tan θ = Adjacent
° 24
Tan 60 = x
24
x = tan 60°
24
x = 1.732
x = 13.86
∴ Distance from the foot of the ladder to the foot of the building is 13.86
m.
(b) From,
Opposite
Tan θ = Adjacent
24−h
Tan 45° = x
24 − h = x tan 45°
24 − h = 13.86
24 − h = 13.86
24 − 13.86 = h
h = 10.14
∴ The height of the ladder is 10.14 m.
79. The angle of elevation of the top of a tower is observed to be 60° ; at a point
40 feet above the first point of observation the elevation is found to be 45° ;
find:
(a) The height of the tower.
(b) The horizontal distance from the points of observation.
Solution
(a) Let ℎ + 40 ft be the height of the tower and x be its horizontal distance
from the points of observation, then consider the figure below.

45° ℎ + 40 ft
𝑥
40 ft 40 ft
60°
𝑥
From

ℎ
tan 45° = 𝑥

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
ℎ = 𝑥 tan 45°
ℎ = 𝑥(1.0000)
ℎ = 𝑥 − − − −(i)
ℎ+40
tan 60° = 𝑥
ℎ + 40 = 𝑥 tan 60°
ℎ + 40 = 𝑥(1.7321)
ℎ + 40 = 1.7321𝑥 − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii) above.
ℎ + 40 = 1.7321ℎ
40 = 1.7321ℎ − ℎ
0.7321ℎ = 40
0.7321ℎ 40
= 0.7321
0.7321
ℎ = 54.64
The height of the tower = ℎ + 40 ft
The height of the tower = 54.64 ft + 40 ft
The height of the tower = 94.64 ft
∴ The height of the tower is 94.64 feet.
(b) From equation (i) above,
ℎ=𝑥
𝑥 = 54.64 ft
∴ The horizontal distance from the points of observation is 54.64 feet.
80. A 1.5 m tall boy is standing at some distance from a 30 m tall building. The
angle of elevation from his eyes to the top of the building increases from
30° to 60° as he walks towards the building. Find the distance he walked
towards the building. Leave your answer in surd form.
Solution
Let x be the distance that the boy walked towards the building. Also let y be
the distance from where he is now to the building, then consider the figure
below.

28.5 m
30° 60°
1.5 m 1.5 m
𝑥 𝑦

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
From

28.5
tan 60° = 𝑦
28.5
𝑦 = tan 60°
28.5
𝑦=
√3
28.5 √3
𝑦=( )( )
√3 √3
28.5√3
𝑦= 3
19√3
𝑦= m
2
° 28.5
tan 30 = 𝑥+𝑦
28.5
𝑥 + 𝑦 = tan 30°
19√3 28.5
𝑥+ = √3
2
3
19√3 3(28.5)
𝑥+ =
2 √3
19√3 3(28.5) √3
𝑥+ =[ ][ ]
2 √3 √3
19√3 3(28.5)√3
𝑥+ =
2 3
19√3
𝑥+ = 28.5√3
2
19√3 285
𝑥+ = ( 10 ) √3
2
19√3 57√3
𝑥+ =
2 2
57√3 19√3
𝑥= −
2 2
√3
𝑥= (57 − 19)
2
√3
𝑥= (38)
2
𝑥 = 19√3
∴ The distance he walked towards the building is 19√3 m.
81. A 1.2 m tall boy spots a balloon moving with the wind in a horizontal line at a
height of 88.2 m from the ground. The angle of elevation of the balloon from

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
the eyes of the boy at any instant is 60° . After some time, the angle of elevation
reduces to 30° (see the figure below).

88.2 m
60°
30°

Find the distance travelled by the balloon during the interval. Leave your
answer in a surd form.
Solution
Let x represents the horizontal distance from the boy to the first position of the
balloon and y represents the distance travelled by the balloon during the
interval, then consider the figure below.

87 m
60°
30°
1.2 m 1.2 m
𝑥 𝑦
From

87
tan 60° =
𝑥
87
√3 = 𝑥
87
𝑥=
√3

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
87 √3
𝑥 = ( )( )
√3 √3
87√3
𝑥= 3
𝑥 = 29√3 m
87
tan 30° = 𝑥+𝑦
√3 87
= 29√3+𝑦
3

√3(29√3 + 𝑦) = 3(87)
87 + 𝑦√3 = 261
𝑦√3 = 261 − 87
𝑦√3 = 174
174
𝑦=
√3
174 √3
𝑦=( )( )
√3 √3
174√3
𝑦= 3
𝑦 = 58√3 m
∴ The distance travelled by the balloon during the interval is 58√3 m.
82. A bird is perched on the top of a tree 20 m high and its elevation from a point
on the ground is 45° . It flies off horizontally straight away from the observer
and in one second the elevation of the bird is reduced to 30° . Find its speed.
Solution
Let the bird alight at B, the top of the tree BD and O be the obsever, where
BD = 20 m.
B M

20 m

°
45°
30
O D N
̅̅̅̅ = MN
BD ̅̅̅̅̅ = 20 m
From,

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

In ∆BOD,
20
tan 45° = ̅̅̅̅̅
OD
20
̅̅̅̅
OD = tan 45°
̅̅̅̅
OD = 20 m
In ∆MON,
20
tan 30° = ̅̅̅̅̅
DN+20
20
̅̅̅̅
DN + 20 = tan 30°
20
̅̅̅̅
DN + 20 = √3
3
60
̅̅̅̅ + 20 =
DN
√3
60
√3
̅̅̅̅
DN + 20 = ( ) ( )
√3 √3
60√3
̅̅̅̅
DN + 20 = 3
̅̅̅̅ + 20 = 20√3
DN
̅̅̅̅
DN = 20√3 − 20
̅̅̅̅ = 20(√3 − 1) m
DN
Distance
Speed = Time
20(√3−1) m
Speed = 1s
∴ The speed of the bird is 20(√3 − 1) m/s.
83. In the figure below, a pendulum 30 cm long swings to and from through an
angle of 200 to each side. How high does the lower end of the pendulum rise?

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Solution
Let y be the lower end that the pendulum rise.

From,

Adjacent
Cos θ = Hypotenuse
30 − y
Cos20° = 30
30 − y = 30 × cos20°
30 − y = 30 × 0.9397
30 cm − y = 28.19
30 − 28.19 = y
y = 1.81
∴ The required height is 1.81 cm.
84. At the foot of a mountain the elevation of its summit is 45° , after ascending 1
km towards the mountain upon an incline of 30° , the elevation changes to 60° .
Find the height of the mountain.
Solution
Note: In this question, summit is the highest point of a mountain.
Let C be the foot and A be the top of the mountain and 𝐴𝐵 = ℎ.
A

ℎ
D 60°
E
°
45
30°
C F B

From,

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

CF
cos 30° = 1
CF = cos 30°

√3
CF = km
2
° 𝐷𝐹
sin 30 = 1
DF = sin 30°
1
DF = 2 km
In ∆ABC,
𝐴𝐵
tan 45° = 𝐵𝐶
ℎ
tan 45° = √3
𝐵𝐹+
2
ℎ
1= √3
𝐵𝐹+
2
√3
ℎ = 𝐵𝐹 + − − − −(i)
2
But 𝐵𝐹 = 𝐷𝐸
Again consider ∆AED,
𝐴𝐸
tan 60° = 𝐷𝐸
𝐴𝐸
√3 = 𝐷𝐸
𝐴𝐸
𝐷𝐸 =
√3
𝐴𝐸 √3
𝐷𝐸 = ( ) ( )
√3 √3
√3
𝐷𝐸 = 𝐴𝐸
3
√3
𝐵𝐹 = 𝐴𝐸 − − − −(ii)
3
ℎ = 𝐴𝐸 + 𝐵𝐸
𝐴𝐸 = ℎ − 𝐵𝐸
1
But 𝐵𝐸 = 𝐷𝐹 = km
2

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
1
𝐴𝐸 = ℎ −
2
2ℎ−1
𝐴𝐸 = − − − −(iii)
2
Substitute equation (iii) into equation (ii).
√3 2ℎ−1
𝐵𝐹 = ( 2 ) − − − −(iv)
3
Substitute equation (iv) into equation (i).
√3 2ℎ−1 √3
ℎ= ( 2 )+ 2
3
√3 2ℎ−1 √3
ℎ= ( 3 )+ 2
2
√3 2ℎ−1
ℎ= [( 3 ) + 1]
2
√3 2ℎ−1 1
ℎ= ( + )
2 3 1
√3 2ℎ−1+3
ℎ= ( 3 )
2
√3 2ℎ+2
ℎ= ( 3 )
2
√3 ℎ+1
ℎ= [2 ( )]
2 3
ℎ+1
ℎ = √3 ( )
3
ℎ√3 √3
ℎ= 3 + 3
ℎ√3 √3
ℎ− 3 = 3
√3 √3
ℎ (1 − 3 ) = 3
3−√3 √3
ℎ( 3 ) = 3
ℎ(3 − √3) = √3
√3
ℎ=
3−√3
√3 3+√3
ℎ = (3−√3) (3+√3)
3√3+3
ℎ = 9+3√3−3√3−3
3√3+3
ℎ= 6
3(√3+1)
ℎ= 6
(√3+1)
∴ The height of the mountain is [ ] km.
2

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
85. From the top of a tower of height 75 m, a man sees two points A and B both
due East of him (see the figure below).
10°
17°
75 𝑚

B A
If the angles of depression of the two points are 10° and 17° , calculate the
distance between them.
Solution
Let x be the distance from point B to the tower and y be the distance between
points A and B.
10°
17°
75𝑚

17° 10°
B A
𝑥 𝑦
From

75
tan 17° = 𝑥
75
𝑥 = tan 17°
75
𝑥 = 0.3057
𝑥 = 245.34 𝑚
75
tan 10° = 𝑥+𝑦
75
tan 10° = 245.34+𝑦
(245.34 + 𝑦) tan 10° = 75
0.1763(245.34 + 𝑦) = 75
0.1763(245.34+𝑦) 75
0.1763
= 0.1763
245.34 + 𝑦 = 425.41
𝑦 = 425.41 − 245.34

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑦 = 180.07
𝑦 ≈ 180
∴ The distance between points A and B is 180 m.
86. From the top of a tower of height 35 m, the angles of depression of two points
lying in a line due east of the tower are 27° and 23° . Find the distance between
the points.
Solution
Let A and B be the two points. Also let x be the distance from point B to the
tower and y be the distance between point A and B then, consider the two
figures below.
23° 23°
27° 27°
35m 35m

27° 23°
B A B A
𝑥 𝑦 𝑥 𝑦
Figure 1 Figure 2
Consider figure 2 above.
From

35
tan 27° = 𝑥
35
𝑥 = tan 27° − − − −(i)
35
tan 23° = 𝑥+𝑦
35
𝑥+𝑦 = − − − −(ii)
tan 23°
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii) above.
35 35
+ 𝑦 = tan 23°
tan 27°
35 35
𝑦 = tan 23° − tan 27°
1 1
𝑦 = 35 (tan 23° − tan 27° )
tan 27° −tan 23°
𝑦 = 35 ( tan 23° tan 27° )
0.5095−0.4245
𝑦 = 35 [(0.4245)(0.5095)]

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
0.085
𝑦 = 35 ( )
0.2163
𝑦 = 35 × 0.39297
𝑦 ≈ 13.8
∴ The distance between the points is 13.8 m.
87. From the top of a building 75 m high, Wilson sees two men along the road,
both being on one side of the building at the angles of depression of
30° and 60° respectively.
(a) Sketch a diagram representing this information.
(b) Determine the distance between the two men, leaving the answer in surd
form.
Solution
(a) Let A and B be the positions of the two men.
30°
60°
75 m

(b) Let ̅̅̅̅

AB be the height of the building, C, D be the positions of the two men,
x be the distance from the first man to the building and y be the distance
between the two men, then consider the figure below.
A
30°
60°
75 m

60° 30°
𝑥 𝑦
B C D

From ∆ABC in the figure above,

75
tan 60° = 𝑥
75
𝑥 = tan 60° − − − −(i)
From ∆ABD in the figure above,
75
tan 30° =
𝑥+𝑦

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
75
𝑥+𝑦 = − − − −(ii)
tan 30°
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii) above.
75 75
+ 𝑦 = tan 30°
tan 60°
75 75
𝑦 = tan 30° − tan 60°

3(75) 75
𝑦= −
√3 √3
75
𝑦= (3 − 1)
√3
150
𝑦=
√3
150 √3
𝑦=( )( )
√3 √3
150
𝑦= √3
3
𝑦 = 50√3 m
∴ The distance between the two men is 50√3 m.
88. A passenger airplane is at an altitude of 10 kilometres and it sees two points
directly to the east of the plane. The angle of depression of the points are
28° and 55° . How far apart are the points.
Solution
Let A and B be the two points and then consider the two figures below.

28°
55°

10 m

55° 28°
B A
𝑥 𝑦
From the figure above, y is the distance between the points.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
From

10
tan 55° = 𝑥
10
𝑥 = tan 55° − − − −(i)
10
tan 28° = 𝑥+𝑦
10
𝑥 + 𝑦 = tan 28° − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii) above.
10 10
+ 𝑦 = tan 28°
tan 55°
10 10
𝑦 = tan 28° − tan 55°
1 1
𝑦 = 10 (tan 28° − tan 55° )
1 1
𝑦 = 10 (0.5317 − 1.4281)
𝑦 = 10(1.8808 − 0.7002)
𝑦 = 10(1.1806)
𝑦 = 11.806
𝑦 ≈ 11.81
∴ The two points are 11.81 km apart.
89. From the top of a 200 metres high building, the angle of depression to the
bottom of first building is 20° . From the same point, the angle of elevation to
the top of the first building is 10° . Calculate:
(a) The distance between two buildings correct to two decimal places.
(b) The height of the first building correct to two decimal places.
Solution
(a) Let y be the distance between two buildings and h be the height of the
second building.

From,

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Opposite
Tan θ =
Adjacent
° 200
Tan 20 = y
200
y = tan 200
200
y = 0.3640
y = 549.4505 ≈ 549.45
∴ The distance between two buildings is 549.45 m.
(b) From,
Opposite
Tan θ = Adjacent
200 −h
Tan 10° = y
200 − h = y tan 10°
200 − y tan 10° = h
h = 200 − y tan 10°
But y = 549.45
h = 200 − (549.45 × 0.1763)
h = 200 − 96.868
h = 103.132 ≈ 103.13
∴ The height of the first building is 103.13 m
90. The angles of depression of the top and the bottom of an 16 m tall building
from the top of a multi – storeyed building are 30° and 45° , respectively. Find:
(a) The height of the multi – storeyed building.
(b) The distance between the two buildings.
(Leave your answers in a surd form)
Solution
(a) Consider the figure below where MR is the height of the multi – storeyed
building, PQ is the 16 m tall building and PR is the distance between the
two buildings.
45°
N 30° M

Q S
16 m
P R
MQ is a transversal to the parallel lines MN and QS. Therefore, ∠NMQ
and ∠MQS are alternate angles, and so are equal. So, ∠MQS = 30° .
Similarly, ∠MPR = 45°

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Therefore, the above figure can be as follows.
45°
N 30° M

Q 30° S
16 m 45°
P R
Opposite
From, tan θ = Adjacent
° ̅̅̅̅̅
MR
Tan 45 = ̅̅̅̅
PR
MR = ̅SR
But ̅̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅ + MS ̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅
SR ̅̅̅̅̅
+MS
Tan 45° = ̅̅̅̅PR
16 m+MS ̅̅̅̅̅
Tan 45° = ̅̅̅̅
PR
16 m+MS ̅̅̅̅̅
1= ̅̅̅̅
PR
̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅ = 16 m + MS
PR
̅̅̅̅̅
MS
Also, tan 30° = ̅̅̅̅
QS
̅̅̅̅ = PR
But QS ̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅̅
MS
Tan 30° = ̅̅̅̅
PR
MS ̅̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅
PR = tan 30°
̅̅̅̅̅
Since ̅̅̅̅
PR = ̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅̅ = MS °
PR, then 16 m + MS tan 30
̅̅̅̅̅
MS
̅̅̅̅ =
16 m + MS √3
3
̅̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅ = 3MS
16 m + MS
√3
̅̅̅̅̅
3MS
(16 m + MS ̅̅̅̅)√3 = ( ) √3
√3
16√3 m + √3 MS ̅̅̅̅ = 3MS
̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅ − √3 MS
3MS ̅̅̅̅ = 16√3 m
(3 − √3)MS ̅̅̅̅ = 16√3 m
16√3 m
̅̅̅̅ =
MS 3−√3
̅̅̅̅ = (16√3 m ) (3+√3)
MS 3−√3 3+√3
̅̅̅̅ = 48√3 m+16(3) m
MS 9+3√3−3√3−3
̅̅̅̅ = 48√3 m+48 m
MS 9−3
̅̅̅̅ = 48√3 m+48 m
MS 6

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
̅̅̅̅ = 48(√3+1) m
MS
6
̅̅̅̅ = 8(√3 + 1) m
MS
̅̅̅̅ = (8√3 + 8) m
MS
MR = ̅SR
̅̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅ + MS
̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅̅ = 16 m + (8√3 + 8) m
MR
̅̅̅̅̅ = 16 m + 8√3 m + 8 m
MR
̅̅̅̅̅
MR = 24 m + 8√3 m
̅̅̅̅̅ = 8(3 + √3) m
MR
∴ The height of the multi – storeyed building is 8(3 + √3) m.
(b) ̅̅̅̅
PR = 16 m + MS ̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅ = 16 m + (8√3 + 8) m
PR
̅̅̅̅ = 16 m + 8√3 m + 8 m
PR
̅̅̅̅
PR = 24 m + 8√3 m
̅̅̅̅
PR = 8(3 + √3) m
∴ The distance between the two buildings is 8(3 + √3) m.
91. From the top of a cliff, 200 feet high, the angles of depression of the top and
bottom of a tower are observed to be 30° and 60° ; find the height of the tower.
Solution
Let h be the height of the tower and x be the distance between the tower and
the cliff then, look at the two figures below.

30° 30°
60° 60° 200 feet − ℎ
°
30
𝑥
200 feet 200 feet

ℎ ℎ

60°
𝑥 𝑥
Figure 1 Figure 2
Consider figure 2 above.
From

200
tan 60° = 𝑥

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
200
𝑥= − − − −(i)
tan 60°
200−ℎ
tan 30° = 𝑥
200 − ℎ = 𝑥 tan 30°
ℎ = 200 − 𝑥 tan 30° − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).
200
ℎ = 200 − (tan 60° ) tan 30°
200 tan 30°
ℎ = 200 − tan 60°
200×0.5774
ℎ = 200 −
1.7321
ℎ = 200 − 66.67
ℎ = 133.33
∴ The height of the tower is 133.33 feet.
92. The horizontal distance between two towers is 60 feet and the angular
depression of the top of the first as seen from the top of the second, which is
150 feet high, is 30° ; find the height of the first.
Solution
Let h be the height of the first tower then consider the figures below.
30° 30°
150 ft − ℎ
30°
60 ft
150 ft 150 ft
ℎ ℎ ℎ

60 ft 60 ft
Figure 1 Figure 2
Consider figure 2 above.
From

150−ℎ
tan 30° = 60
150 − ℎ = 60 tan 30°
ℎ = 150 − 60 tan 30°
ℎ = 150 − 60(0.5774)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
ℎ = 150 − 34.644
ℎ = 115.356 ft
∴ The height of the first tower is 115.356 feet.
93. The angle of elevation of a cloud from a point h metres above the surface of a
lake is 𝜃 and the angle of depression of its refrection in the lake is ∅. If H
tan ∅+tan 𝜃
metres is the height of the cloud above the lake, prove that 𝐻 = ℎ (tan ∅−tan 𝜃).
Solution
Let P be the cloud and Q be its reflection in the lake (see the figure below).
Also let A be the point of observation such that 𝐴𝐵 = ℎ.
P

𝐻−ℎ
A 𝜃 𝐻
L
∅
ℎ 𝑑

B N

Q
Again, let the height of the cloud above the lake be x and 𝐴𝐿 = 𝑑.
Now, consider ∆PAL.
From

𝐻−ℎ
tan 𝜃 = 𝑑
𝐻−ℎ
𝑑 = tan 𝜃 − − − −(i)
Consider ∆QAL.
𝐻+ℎ
tan ∅ = 𝑑
𝐻+ℎ
𝑑 = tan ∅ − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).
𝐻−ℎ 𝐻+ℎ
=
tan 𝜃 tan ∅

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(𝐻 − ℎ) tan ∅ = (𝐻 + ℎ) tan 𝜃
𝐻 tan ∅ − ℎ tan ∅ = 𝐻 tan 𝜃 + ℎ tan 𝜃
𝐻 tan ∅ − 𝐻 tan 𝜃 = ℎ tan 𝜃 + ℎ tan ∅
𝐻(tan ∅ − tan 𝜃) = ℎ(tan 𝜃 + tan ∅)
𝐻(tan ∅−tan 𝜃) ℎ(tan 𝜃+tan ∅)
=
tan ∅−tan 𝜃 tan ∅−tan 𝜃
tan ∅+tan 𝜃
∴ 𝐻 = ℎ (tan ∅−tan 𝜃); Hence proved.
94. The angle of elevation of the top of tower B from the top of tower A is 28° and
the angle of depression from top of tower A to the base of tower B is 46° . The
two towers lie in the same horizontal plane. If the height of tower B is 150 m,
find the height of tower A.
Solution
Let h be the height of tower A and x be the distance between tower A and B
then, look at the two figures below.
B B
150 m − ℎ
A 28° A 28°
46° 46°
150 m 150 m
ℎ ℎ ℎ

46°
𝑥 𝑥
Figure 1 Figure 2

Consider figure 2 above.

From

150−ℎ
tan 28° = 𝑥
150−ℎ
𝑥 = tan 28° − − − −(i)
ℎ
tan 46° = 𝑥
ℎ
𝑥 = tan 46° − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
150−ℎ ℎ
=
tan 28° tan 46°
(150 − ℎ) tan 46° = ℎ tan 28°
150 tan 46° − ℎ tan 46° = ℎ tan 28°
150 tan 46° = ℎ tan 28° + ℎ tan 46°
ℎ(tan 28° + tan 46° ) = 150 tan 46°
150 tan 46°
ℎ = tan 28° +tan 46°
150×1.0355
ℎ = 0.5317+1.0355
155.325
ℎ= 1.5672
ℎ = 99.11
∴ The height of tower A is 99.11 m.
95. From the top of a 7 m high wall, the angle of elevation of the top of a tower is
60° and the angle of depression of its foot is 45° . Determine the height of the
tower. Leave your answer in surd form.
Solution
Let ℎ + 7 m represents the height of the tower and x represents the distance
between the wall and the tower, then look at the figure below.

60° 7m+ℎ
45°
7m 7m
°
45
𝑥
From

7
tan 45° = 𝑥
7
𝑥 = tan 45°
7
𝑥 = 1.0000
𝑥 = 7m
ℎ
tan 60° = 𝑥
ℎ = 𝑥 tan 60°

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
ℎ = 7√3 m
The height of the tower = ℎ + 7 m
The height of the tower = 7√3 m + 7 m
The height of the tower = 7(√3 + 1) m
∴ The height of the tower is 7(√3 + 1) m.
96. From a boat sailing due north at 16.5 km/h, a wrecked ship K and an observer
tower T are observed in a line due east. One hour later the wrecked ship and
the tower have bearings S34° 40′ E and S65° 10′ E. Find the distance between
the wrecked ship and the tower.
Solution
Distance
Speed = Time
Distance
16.5 km/h = 1h
Distance = 16.5 km/h × 1h = 16.5 km
Consider the figure below where C, K, and T represent, respectively, the
boat, the wrecked ship, and the tower when in a line. One hour later the boat
is at A, 16.5 km due north of C.
N

A
34° 40′
65° 10′
16.5 km

C K T

S
In the right triangle ACK,
From,

̅̅̅̅
𝐶𝐾
tan 34° 40′ = 16.5
̅̅̅̅ = 16.5 tan 34° 40′
CK
̅̅̅̅ = 16.5 × 0.6916
CK

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
̅̅̅̅
CK = 11.4114 km
In the right triangle ACT,
̅̅̅̅
CT
tan 65° 10′ = 16.5
̅̅̅̅+KT
CK ̅̅̅̅
tan 65° 10′ = 16.5
° ′ ̅̅̅̅
11.4114+KT
tan 65 10 = 16.5
̅̅̅̅ = 16.5 tan 65° 10′
11.4114 + KT
̅̅̅̅ = 16.5 × 2.1609
11.4114 + KT
̅̅̅̅ = 35.65485
11.4114 + KT
̅̅̅̅
KT = 35.65485 − 11.4114 = 24.24345 ≈ 24.2 km
∴ The distance between the wrecked ship and the tower is 24.2 km.
97. A ship is sailing due east when a light is observed bearing N62° 10′ E. After
the ship has traveled 2250 m, the light bears N48° 25′ E. If the course is
continued, how close will the ship approach the light?
Solution
Consider the figure below where L is the position of the light, A is the first
position of the ship, B is the second position, and C is the position when
nearest L.
N
L

62° 10′ N
27° 50′ 41° 35′
A 2250 m B C

In the right triangle BCL,

From,

̅̅̅̅
CL
tan 41° 35′ = ̅̅̅̅
BC
̅̅̅̅ = BC
CL ̅̅̅̅ tan 41° 35′ − − − −(i)
In the right triangle ACL,

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
̅̅̅̅
CL
tan 27° 50′ = ̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅̅
AB+BC
̅CL
̅̅̅ = (AB
̅̅̅̅ + ̅̅̅̅
BC) tan 27° 50′
̅̅̅̅ = (2250 + BC
CL ̅̅̅̅) tan 27° 50′ − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).
̅̅̅̅ tan 41° 35′ = (2250 + BC
BC ̅̅̅̅) tan 27° 50′
0.8873BC ̅̅̅̅ = 0.5279(2250 + BC ̅̅̅̅)
̅̅̅̅
0.8873BC ̅̅̅̅)
0.5279(2250+BC
=
0.5279 0.5279
1.6808BC = 2250 + ̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅ BC
̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅̅
1.6808BC − BC = 2250
0.6808BC ̅̅̅̅ = 2250
̅̅̅̅
BC = 3,305 m
Substitute ̅̅̅̅
BC = 3,305 m into equation (i).
̅̅̅̅ = 3,305 tan 41° 35′
CL
̅̅̅̅ = 3,305 × 0.8873 = 2,932.5
CL
∴ The required distance is 2,932.5 m.
98. A ship leaves port at noon and heads due west at 20 knots, or 20 nautical miles
(nm) per hour. At 2 p.m. the ship changes course to N 54° W, as shown in the
figure below.

Find:
(a) The ship’s bearing from the port of departure at 3 p.m.
(b) The distance from the port of departure at 3 p.m.
Solution
(a) From triangle BCD, you have
𝐵 = 90° − 54° = 36°
From,

𝑏
sin 36° = 20
𝑏 = 20 sin 36°

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑏 = 20 × 0.5878
𝑏 = 11.756 nm
𝑑
cos 36° = 20
𝑑 = 20 cos 36°
𝑑 = 20 × 0.8090
𝑑 = 16.18 nm
In triangle ACD,
11.756 nm
tan 𝐴 = (16.18+40) nm
11.756 nm
tan 𝐴 =
56.18 nm
tan 𝐴 = 0.2092
𝐴 = tan−1(0.2092)
𝐴 = 11.82°
The angle with the north – south line is 90° − 11.82° = 78.18°
∴ The bearing of the ship is N 78.18° W.
𝑏
(b) sin 𝐴 = 𝑐
11.756
sin 11.82° = 𝑐
11.756
𝑐 = sin 11.82°
11.756
𝑐= 0.2048
𝑐 = 57.4 nm
∴ The required distance is 57.4 nm.
99. (a) What is sine function?
(b) Prepare table to show a set of ordered pairs for sine function for
−720° ≤ 𝜃 ≤ 720° .
Solution
(a) Sine function is a function of the form 𝑓(𝜃) = sin 𝜃.
(b) Ordered pairs of sine for −720° ≤ 𝜃 ≤ 720° .
𝛉 −720° −630° −540° −450° −360° −270° −180° −90° 0°
𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝛉 0.00 1.00 0.00 −1.00 0.00 1.00 0.00 −1.00 0.00
𝛉 90° 180° 270° 360° 450° 540° 630° 720°
𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝛉 1.00 0.00 −1.00 0.00 1.00 0.00 −1.00 0.00
100. (a) What is cosine function?
(b) Prepare table to show a set of ordered pairs for cosine function for
−720° ≤ 𝜃 ≤ 720° .
Solution

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(a) Cosine function is the function of the form 𝑓(𝜃) = cos 𝜃.
(b) Ordered pairs of cosine for −720° ≤ 𝜃 ≤ 720° .
𝛉 −720° −630° −540° −450° −360° −270° −180° −90° 0°
𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝛉 1.00 0.00 −1.00 0.00 1.00 0.00 −1.00 0.00 1.00
𝛉 90° 180° 270° 360° 450° 540° 630° 720°
𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝛉 0.00 −1.00 0.00 1.00 0.00 −1.00 0.00 1.00
101. Draw the graph of sin 𝜃 and cos 𝜃 for −720° ≤ 𝜃 ≤ 720° .
Solution

Note:
 The graphs of sin 𝜃 and cos 𝜃 above shows that the values of the
functions repeat at the intervals of 360° .
 Generally, sin 𝜃 = sin(𝜃 + 360° 𝑛) and cos 𝜃 = cos(𝜃 + 360° 𝑛)
where n is an integer.
 Each of these functions is called a periodic function and the interval
360° is called the period.
 The values of sine and cosine can be found from graphs of
trigonometrical functions by drawing a horizontal line equal to a
certain value.
102. List down important features that the graph of sin 𝜃 has.
Answer
The following are important features that the graph of sin 𝜃 has:
(i) It repeats itself after every 360° . Such a curve is said to be periodic with a
period of 360° .
(ii) Its maximum value is 1 and occurs at −630° , −270° , 90° , 450° .
(iii)Its minimum value is −1 and occurs at −450° , −90° , 270° , 630° .
(iv) It is a smooth curve.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(v) When the graph is rotated through 180° about the origin (0° , 0) it maps
onto itself. A function whose graph has such a feature is called an odd
function. Another property of an odd function is that 𝑓(−𝜃) = −𝑓(𝜃).
Thus, sin(−𝜃) = − sin 𝜃.
103. List down important features that the graph of cos 𝜃 has.
Answer
The following are important features that the graph of cos 𝜃 has:
(i) It is periodic with a period of 360° .
(ii) Its maximum value is 1 and occurs at −720° , −360° , 0° , 360° and 720° .
(iii)Its minimum value is −1 and occurs at −540° , −180° , 180° and 540° .
(iv) It is continuous smooth curve.
(v) The graph is symmetrical in the line 𝑥 = 0.
A function whose graph has such a feature is called an even function.
Another property of an even function is that 𝑓(−𝜃) = 𝑓(𝜃).
Thus, cos(−𝜃) = cos 𝜃.
104. Find the angles between −360° and 360° which satisfy each of the
following:
(a) sin 𝜃 = 0.1234
(b) cos 𝜃 = −0.5678
(c) tan 𝜃 = 0.3546
Solution
(a) sin 𝜃 = 0.1234
The value of sin 𝜃 is positive in the first and second quadrants.
1st case: In the fist quadrant.
sin 𝜃 = 0.1234
𝜃 = sin−1 (0.1234)
𝜃 = 7.1°
2nd case: In the second quadrant.
sin(180° − θ) = 0.1234
180° − θ = sin−1(0.1234)
180° − θ = 7.1°
θ = 172.9°
So, two among the required values of 𝜃 are 7.1° and 172.9° .
𝜃 = 7.1° ± 360° 𝑛 𝑛 = 0, 1, 2, 3, …
° °
𝜃 = 7.1 , −352.9 .
𝜃 = 172.9° ± 360° 𝑛 𝑛 = 0, 1, 2, 3, …

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝜃 = 172.9° , −187.1° .
∴ The values of 𝜃 are −352.9° , −187.1° , 7.1° and 172.9° .
(b) cos 𝜃 = −0.5678
The value of cos 𝜃 is negative in the second and third quadrants.
1st case: In the second quadrant.
− cos(180° − θ) = −0.5678
cos(180° − θ) = 0.5678
180° − θ = cos −1 (0.5678)
180° − θ = 55.4°
𝜃 = 124.6°
2nd case: In the third quadrant.
− cos(θ − 180° ) = −0.5678
cos(θ − 180° ) = 0.5678
θ − 180° = cos −1 (0.5678)
θ − 180° = 55.4°
θ = 235.4°
So, two among the required values of 𝜃 are 124.6° and 235.4° .
𝜃 = 124.6° ± 360° 𝑛 𝑛 = 0, 1, 2, 3, …
° °
𝜃 = 124.6 , −235.4 .
𝜃 = 235.4° ± 360° 𝑛 𝑛 = 0, 1, 2, 3, …
𝜃 = 235.4° , −124.6° .
∴ The values of 𝜃 are −235.4° , −124.6° , 124.6° and 235.4° .
(d) tan 𝜃 = 0.3546
The value of tan 𝜃 is positive in the first and third quadrants.
1st case: In the first quadrant.
tan 𝜃 = 0.3546
𝜃 = tan−1 (0.3546)
𝜃 = 19.53°
2nd case: In the third quadrant.
tan(θ − 180° ) = 0.3546
θ − 180° = tan−1(0.3546)
θ − 180° = 19.53°
𝜃 = 199.53°
So, two among the required values of 𝜃 are 19.53° and 199.53° .
𝜃 = 19.53° ± 360° 𝑛 𝑛 = 0, 1, 2, 3, …

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝜃 = 19.53° , −340.47° .
𝜃 = 199.53° ± 360° 𝑛 𝑛 = 0, 1, 2, 3, …
° °
𝜃 = 199.53 , −160.47 .
∴ The values of 𝜃 are −340.47° , −160.47° , 19.53° and 199.53° .
105. Solve each of the following trigonometric equations in the range given.
√6−√2
(a) sin(4𝜃 − 45° ) = −90° ≤ 𝜃 < 90°
4
1
(b) cos(𝜃 + 30° ) = 2 −180° ≤ 𝜃 < 180°
Solution
√6−√2
(a) sin(4𝜃 − 45° ) = 4
sin(4𝜃 − 45° ) = 0.2588
The value of sin 𝜃 is positive in the first and second quadrants.
1st case: In the fist quadrant.
4𝜃 − 45° = sin−1 (0.2588)
4𝜃 − 45° = 15°
4𝜃 = 15° + 45°
4𝜃 = 60°
𝜃 = 15°
2nd case: In the second quadrant.
sin[180° − (4𝜃 − 45° )] = 0.2588
sin(225° − 4𝜃) = 0.2588
225° − 4𝜃 = sin−1(0.2588)
225° − 4𝜃 = 15°
−4𝜃 = 15° − 225°
−4𝜃 = −210°
𝜃 = 52.5°
So, two among the required values of 𝜃 are 15° and 52.5° .
𝜃 = 15° ± 90° 𝑛 𝑛 = 0, 1, 2, 3, …
° °
𝜃 = 15 , −75 .
𝜃 = 52.5° ± 90° 𝑛 𝑛 = 0, 1, 2, 3, …
° °
𝜃 = 52.5 , −37.5 .
∴ The values of 𝜃 are −75° , −37.5° , 15° and 52.5° .
106. Solve each of the following trigonometric equations in the range given.
√3
(a) sin(2𝜃 + 30° ) = −180° ≤ 𝜃 < 180°
2
(b) sin(2𝜃 + 40° ) = 0.9848 −180° ≤ 𝜃 < 180°

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Solution
√3
(a) sin(2𝜃 + 30° ) = 2
The value of sin 𝜃 is positive in the first and second quadrants.
1st case: In the fist quadrant.
√3
sin(2𝜃 + 30° ) = 2
−1 √3
2𝜃 + 30° = sin ( 2 )
2𝜃 + 30° = 60 °

2𝜃 = 60° − 30°
2𝜃 = 30°
𝜃 = 15°
2nd case: In the second quadrant.
√3
sin[180° − (2𝜃 + 30° )] = 2
√3
sin(150° − 2𝜃) = 2
√3
150° − 2𝜃 = sin−1 ( 2 )
150° − 2𝜃 = 60 °

−2𝜃 = 60° − 150°

−2𝜃 = −90°
𝜃 = 45°
So, two among the required values of 𝜃 are 15° and 45° .
𝜃 = 15° ± 180° 𝑛 𝑛 = 0, 1, 2, 3, …
° °
𝜃 = 15 , −165 .
𝜃 = 45° ± 180° 𝑛 𝑛 = 0, 1, 2, 3, …
° °
𝜃 = 45 , −135 .
∴ The values of 𝜃 are −165° , −135° , 15° and 45° .
(b) sin(2𝜃 + 40° ) = 0.9848
The value of sin 𝜃 is positive in the first and second quadrants.
1st case: In the fist quadrant.
sin(2𝜃 + 40° ) = 0.9848
2𝜃 + 40° = sin−1 (0.9848)
2𝜃 + 40° = 80°
2𝜃 = 80° − 40°
2𝜃 = 40°

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝜃 = 20°
2nd case: In the second quadrant.
sin[180° − (2𝜃 + 40° )] = 0.9848
sin(140° − 2𝜃) = 0.9848
140° − 2𝜃 = sin−1(0.9848)
140° − 2𝜃 = 80°
−2𝜃 = 80° − 140°
−2𝜃 = −60°
𝜃 = 30°
So, two among the required values of 𝜃 are 20° and 30° .
𝜃 = 20° ± 180° 𝑛 𝑛 = 0, 1, 2, 3, …
° °
𝜃 = 20 , −160 .
𝜃 = 30° ± 180° 𝑛 𝑛 = 0, 1, 2, 3, …
° °
𝜃 = 30 , −150 .
∴ The values of 𝜃 are −160° , −150° , 20° and 30° .
107. Solve each of the following trigonometric equations in the range given.
(a) tan(𝜃 − 20° ) = √3 −180° ≤ 𝜃 < 180°
(b) tan(𝜃 − 40° ) = 0.7 −180° ≤ 𝜃 < 180°
Solution
°)
(a) tan(𝜃 − 20 = √3
The value of tan 𝜃 is positive in the first and third quadrants.
1st case: In the fist quadrant.
tan(𝜃 − 20° ) = √3
𝜃 − 20° = tan−1(√3)
𝜃 − 20° = 60°
𝜃 = 80°
2nd case: In the third quadrant.
tan[(𝜃 − 20° ) − 180° ] = √3
tan(𝜃 − 200° ) = √3
𝜃 − 200° = tan−1 (√3)
𝜃 − 200° = 60°
𝜃 = 260° (Out of range)
So, one among the required values of 𝜃 is 80° .
𝜃 = 80° ± 180° 𝑛 𝑛 = 0, 1, 2, 3, …
° °
𝜃 = 80 , −100 .

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
∴ The values of 𝜃 are −100° and 80° .
(b) tan(𝜃 − 40° ) = 0.7
The value of tan 𝜃 is positive in the first and third quadrants.
1st case: In the fist quadrant.
tan(𝜃 − 40° ) = 0.7
𝜃 − 40° = tan−1(0.7)
𝜃 − 40° = 35°
𝜃 = 75°
2nd case: In the third quadrant.
tan[(𝜃 − 40° ) − 180° ] = 0.7
tan(𝜃 − 220° ) = 0.7
𝜃 − 220° = tan−1 (0.7)
𝜃 − 220° = 35°
𝜃 = 255° (Out of range)
So, one among the required values of 𝜃 is 75° .
𝜃 = 75° ± 180° 𝑛 𝑛 = 0, 1, 2, 3, …
° °
𝜃 = 75 , −105 .
∴ The values of 𝜃 are −105° and 75° .
108. Solve each of the following trigonometric equations in the range given.
3 sin 2𝜃 = √3 cos 2𝜃 −180° ≤ 𝜃 < 180°
Solution
3 sin 2𝜃 = √3 cos 2𝜃
sin 2𝜃 √3
=
cos 2𝜃 3
tan 2𝜃 = 0.5774
The value of tan 𝜃 is positive in the first and third quadrants.
1st case: In the fist quadrant.
2𝜃 = tan−1(0.5774)
2𝜃 = 30°
𝜃 = 15°
2nd case: In the third quadrant.
tan(2θ − 180° ) = 0.5774
2𝜃 − 180° = tan−1(0.5774)
2𝜃 − 180° = 30°
2𝜃 = 210°
𝜃 = 105°

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
So, two among the required values of 𝜃 are 15° and 105° .
𝜃 = 15° ± 180° 𝑛 𝑛 = 0, 1, 2, 3, …
° °
𝜃 = 15 , −165 .
𝜃 = 105° ± 180° 𝑛 𝑛 = 0, 1, 2, 3, …
° °
𝜃 = 105 , −75 .
∴ The values of 𝜃 are −165° , −75° , 15° and 105° .
Sine Rule
Note:
 We will solve oblique triangles – triangles that have no right angles.
As standard notation, the angles of a triangle are labeled A, B, and C,
their opposite sides are labeled a, b and c as shown in the figure below.
C

𝑏 𝑎

A 𝑐 B
 To solve an oblique triangle, you need to know the measure of at least one
side and the measures of any two other parts of the triangle – two sides,
two angles, or one angle and one side. This breaks down into the following
four cases.
(i) Two angles and any side (AAS or ASA).
(ii) Two sides and an angle opposite one of them (SSA).
(iii)Three sides (SSS).
(iv) Two sides and their included angle (SAS).
The first two cases can be solved using the Law of Sines, whereas the
last two cases can be solved using the Law of Cosines.
Oblique Triangles
C C

𝑎 𝑎
𝑏 ℎ ℎ 𝑏

A 𝑐 B A 𝑐 B
A is acute A is obtuse

109. (a) Derive the sine rule.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(b) State the sine rule.
(c) When the sine rule may be useful in a triangle?
Solution
(a) Consider ∆ABC in which A, B, and C are the angles and letters a, b, and c
denotes the corresponding sides of the triangle as shown in the figure
below.
B

𝑐 𝑎
ℎ

A C
D
𝑏
̅̅̅̅ and BC
Figure: Illustration for the sine rule using the sides AB ̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅ from angle B, ∆ABD and
By drawing a line perpendicular to side AC
∆CBD are formed. The two triangles share the same height h.
Using a right – angled ∆ABD, the following is deduced:
ℎ
sin A = 𝑐
ℎ = 𝑐 sin A − − − −(i)
Using a right – angled ∆CBD, the following is deduced:
ℎ
sin C = 𝑎
ℎ = 𝑎 sin C − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).
𝑐 sin A = 𝑎 sin C − − − −(iii)
Dividing by sin A sin C on both sides of equation (iii) results to:
𝑐 sin A 𝑎 sin C
= sin A sin C
sin A sin C
𝑐 𝑎
= sin A − − − −(iv)
sin C
Suppose ∆ABC is divided by drawing a perpendicular line from angle A to
̅̅̅̅ as shown in the figure below.
the sides BC
A

𝑐 𝑏
ℎ

B C
D
𝑎
̅̅̅̅ and AC
Figure: Illustration for the sine rule using the sides AB ̅̅̅̅
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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Using a right – angled ∆BAD, the following is obtained:
ℎ
sin B = 𝑐
ℎ = 𝑐 sin B − − − −(v)
Using a right – angled ∆CAD, the following is obtained:
ℎ
sin C = 𝑏
ℎ = 𝑏 sin C − − − −(vi)
Substitute equation (v) into equation (vi).
𝑐 sin B = 𝑏 sin C − − − −(vii)
Dividing by sin B sin C on both sides of equation (vii) results to:
𝑐 sin B 𝑏 sin C
= sin B sin C
sin B sin C
𝑐 𝑏
= sin B − − − −(viii)
sin C
Using equations (iv) and (viii) results to:
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
= sin B = sin C − − − −(ix)
sin A
The relation in equation (ix) is called the sine rule.
(b) The sine rule states that “If a, b, and c are the lengths of the sides of a
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
∆ABC, then, sin A = sin B = sin C.
Note:
 Only two ratios can be used at a time.
 Sine rule gives us the relationship between lengths of sides and angles
of triangles which may not necessarily be right angled triangles.
 The Law of Sines can also be written in the reciprocal form.
sin 𝐴 sin 𝐵 sin 𝐶
= =
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
(c) The sine rule may be useful in a triangle when:
(i) Both two angles and one side are given.
(ii) Two sides and one angle are given.
110. Find the unknown sides and angles for each of the following triangles:
(a) (b) D
A
38°
6 cm
𝑐 𝑏 𝑓

43° 61° 72°

B 4 cm C E 𝑑 F

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Solution
̂ ̂ ̂ °
(a) BAC + ACB + CBA = 180 − − − (sum of angles in a triangle)

̂ C + 61° + 43° = 180°

BA
̂ C + 104° = 180°
BA
̂ C = 180° − 104°
BA
̂ C = 76°
∴ BA
𝑎 𝑏
̂ = 76° , and B
From the sine rule, sin A = sin B where 𝑎 = 4 cm, A ̂ = 43°
Then,
4 cm b
= sin 43°
sin 76°
4 cm × sin 43° = b × sin 76°
b×sin 76° 4 cm×sin 43°
=
sin 76° sin 76°
4 𝑐𝑚×0.6820
𝑏= 0.9703
𝑏 = 2.81 cm
𝑎 𝑐
̂ = 76° , and
Again, from the sine rule, sin A = sin C where 𝑎 = 4 cm, A
Ĉ = 61°
4 cm c
= sin 61°
sin 76°
4 cm × sin 61° = c × sin 76°
c×sin 76° 4 cm×sin 61°
=
sin 76° sin 76°
4 cm×0.8746
𝑐= 0.9703
𝑐 = 3.61 cm
̂ = 76°
∴ 𝑏 = 2.81 cm, 𝑐 = 3.61 cm, A
(b) EF̂D + FD
̂ E + DE
̂F = 180° − − − (sum of angles in a triangle)
EF̂D + 38° + 72° = 180°
EF̂D + 110° = 180°
EF̂D = 180° − 110°
EF̂D = 70°
𝑑 6 cm
= sin 72°
sin 38°
𝑑 × sin 72° = 6 cm × sin 38°
6 cm×sin 38°
𝑑= sin 72°
6 cm×0.6157
𝑑= 0.9511

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑑 = 3.88 cm
Again
𝑓 6 cm
= sin 72°
sin 70°
𝑓 × sin 72° = 6 cm × sin 70°
𝑓×sin 72° 6 cm×sin 70°
=
sin 72° sin 72°
6 cm×0.9397
𝑓= 0.9511
𝑓 = 5.93 cm
∴ 𝑑 = 3.88 cm, 𝑓 = 5.93 cm, F̂ = 70°
111. A boat at point R is observed from two points P and Q which are 3 km
apart (see the figure below).
P
84°
3 km

67°
R Q
̂Q = 84° and PQ
If RP ̂ R = 67° , find the following correct to one decimal place:
PR (b) ̅̅̅̅
(a) ̅̅̅̅ QR
Solution
(a) PR ̂
̂ Q + RQP + QP̂R = 180 − − − (sum of angles in a triangle)
°

PR̂ Q + 67 + 84° = 180°

°

PR̂ Q + 151° = 180°

PR̂ Q = 180° − 151°
PR̂ Q = 29°
̅̅̅̅
PR 3 km
= sin 29°
sin 67°
̅̅̅̅ × sin 29° = 3 km × sin 67°
PR
PR×sin 29°
̅̅̅̅ 3 km×sin 67°
=
sin 29° sin 29°
3 km×sin 67°
̅̅̅̅
PR = sin 29°
3 km×0.9205
̅̅̅̅ =
PR 0.4848
̅̅̅̅ = 5.7 km
∴ PR
̅̅̅̅
QR 3 km
(b) = sin 29°
sin 84°
̅̅̅̅
QR × sin 29° = 3 km × sin 84°

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
̅̅̅̅×sin 29°
QR 3 km×sin 84°
=
sin 29° sin 29°
3 km×sin 84°
̅̅̅̅ =
QR sin 29°
3 km×0.9945
̅̅̅̅
QR = 0.4848
∴ ̅̅̅̅
QR = 6.2 km
112. A pole tilts toward the sun at an 8° angle from the vertical, and it casts a
22 – foot shadow (see the figure below). The angle of elevation from the tip of
the shadow to the top of the pole is 43° .

How tall is the pole?

Solution
° ° ° °
𝐴 = 43 and 𝐵 = 90 + 8 = 98
𝐴 + 𝐵 + 𝐶 = 180° − − − −(sum of angles in a triangle)
𝐶 = 180° − (𝐴 + 𝐵)
𝐶 = 180° − (43° + 98° )
𝐶 = 39°
𝑎 𝑐
Using the sine rule, sin A = sin C
𝑎 22
=
sin 43° sin 39°
22×sin 43°
𝑎= sin 39°
22×0.6820
𝑎= 0.6293
𝑐 = 23. 84 feet
∴ The length of the pole is 23.84 feet.
113. If in any ∆ABC, ∠𝐶 = 105° , ∠𝐵 = 45° , and 𝑎 = 2 cm, find b. Leave your
answer in asurd form.
Solution

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
∠𝐴 + ∠𝐵 + ∠𝐶 = 180° − − − −(sum of angles in a triangle)
∠𝐴 + 45° + 105° = 180°
∠𝐴 + 150° = 180°
∠𝐴 = 180° − 150°
∠𝐴 = 30°
Now, consider the ∆ABC below.
C
105°
𝑏 2 cm

30° 45°
A 𝑎
𝑐 𝑏 B
Using the sine rule, sin A = sin B
Then,
2 cm 𝑏
= sin 45°
sin 30°
From,

2 cm 𝑏
1 = √2
2 2
2𝑏
4 cm =
√2
2𝑏 = 4√2 cm
4√2 cm
𝑏= 2
∴ 𝑏 = 2√2 cm
114. The following diagram shows the location of the houses A, B and C at
Utegi village in Mara Region.
A 900 m C
°
60

70°
B

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(a) Find BĈA.
(b) How far is house A from house B? Give the answer to the nearest metre.
Solution
̂ C + BĈA + CA
(a) AB ̂ B = 180 − − − (sum of angles in a triangle)
°

70 + BĈA + 60° = 180°

°

BĈA + 130° = 180°

BĈA = 180° − 130°
∴ BĈA = 50°
(b) Consider the figure below.
A 900 m C
°
60 50°

𝑐 𝑎
70°
B
Using the sine rule,
sin 𝐵 sin 𝐶
=
𝑏 𝑐
𝑏 𝑐
=
sin B sin C
sin 70° sin 50°
=
900 m 𝑐
900 m
𝑐 = sin 70° × sin 50°
900 m
𝑐 = 0.9397 × 0.7660
𝑐 = 733.6 m
∴ House A is 734 m from house B.
115. If in a ∆ABC, ∠A = 45° , ∠B = 60° , and ∠C = 75° ; find the ratio of its
sides.
Solution
Consider ∆ABC below.
C
75°
𝑏 𝑎

45° 60°
A 𝑐 B
Using the sine rule,

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
= =
sin A sin B sin C
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
= sin 60° = sin 75°
sin 45°
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
= sin 60° = sin(30° +45° )
sin 45°
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
= sin 60° = sin 30° cos 45° +cos 30° sin 45°
sin 45°
From,

𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
√2
= √3
= 1 √2 √3 √2
( )( )+( )( )
2 2 2 2 2 2
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
√2
= √3
= √2 √6
+
2 2 4 4
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
√2
= √3
= √2+√6
2 2 4
2𝑎 2𝑏 4𝑐
= =
√2 √3 √2+√6
2𝑎 2𝑏
1st case: =
√2 √3
𝑎 𝑏
=
√2 √3
𝑎√3 = 𝑏√2
𝑎 √2
=
𝑏 √3
𝑎: 𝑏 = √2: √3
2𝑏 4𝑐
2nd case: =
√3 √2+√6
𝑏 2𝑐
=
√3 √2+√6
𝑏(√2 + √6) = 2𝑐√3
𝑏 2√3
=
𝑐 √2+√6
𝑏: 𝑐 = 2√3: (√2 + √6)
Now,
𝑎: 𝑏 = √2: √3
𝑏: 𝑐 = 2√3: (√2 + √6)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑎 √2×2√3 2√6 √6
= = =
𝑏 √3×2√3 6 3
𝑎: 𝑏 = √6: 3
116. In a ∆ABC such that ∠𝐴 = 45° and ∠𝐵 = 75° then find 𝑎 + 𝑐√2.
Solution
° °
Given ∠𝐴 = 45 and ∠𝐵 = 75
∠𝐶 = 180° − (∠𝐴 + ∠𝐵)
∠𝐶 = 180° − (45° + 75° )
∠𝐶 = 60°
Using the sine rule,
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
= sin B = sin C
sin A
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
= sin 75° = sin 60°
sin 45°
From,

𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
√2
= √2 = √3
= 𝑘 (say)
(√3+1)
2 4 2
𝑎
√2
=𝑘
2
√2
𝑎=𝑘 − − − −(i)
2
𝑐
√3
=𝑘
2
𝑏
√2
=𝑘
(√3+1)
4
√2
𝑏=𝑘 (√3 + 1)
4
√2
2𝑏 = 2𝑘 4 (√3 + 1)
√2
2𝑏 = 𝑘 2 (√3 + 1) − − − −(ii)
√3
𝑐 = 𝑘 2 − − − −(iii)
𝑎 + 𝑐√2 − − − −(iv)
Substitute equations (i) and (iii) into equation (iv).

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
√2 √3
𝑎 + 𝑐√2 = 𝑘 + 𝑘 . √2
2 2
√2
𝑎 + 𝑐√2 = 𝑘 2 (1 + √3) − − − −(v)
Substitute (ii) into equation (v).
∴ 𝑎 + 𝑐√2 = 2𝑏.
117. A railway signal is supported by two chains ̅̅̅̅
SQ and ̅SR
̅̅̅ of length 6 m and
9 m respectively as shown in the following figure.
S

9m
6m
48°
P Q R
If the angle of elevation of the top of the signal from point Q is 48° , find:
(a) The height of the signal.
(b) SR̂Q
(c) The distance QR.
Solution
(a) In ∆SPQ,
̅̅̅̅
SP 6m
= sin 90°
sin 48°
̅̅̅
SP × sin 90° = 6 m × sin 48°
SP×sin 90°
̅̅̅̅ 6 m×sin 48°
=
sin 90° sin 90°
6 m×sin 48°
̅̅̅
SP = sin 90°
6 m×0.7431
̅̅̅ =
SP 1
̅̅̅ = 4.5 𝑚
SP
∴ The height of the signal is 4.5 m.
(b) In ∆SPR,
4.5 m 9m
= sin 90°
sin R
sin R × 9 m = 4.5 m × sin 90°
sin R×9 m 4.5 m×sin 90°
=
9m 9m
4.5 m×1
sin R = 9m
sin R = 0.5000

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
R = sin−1 (0.5000)
R = 30°
∴ SR̂ Q = 30°
̂ P + SQ
(c) SQ ̂ R = 180° − − − −(Supplementary angles)
48° + SQ̂ R = 180°
̂ R = 180° − 48°
SQ
̂ R = 132°
SQ
In ∆SQR,
̂ R + QR
SQ ̂ S + RŜQ = 180°
132° + 30° + RŜQ = 180°
RŜQ = 180° − 162°
RŜQ = 18°
̅̅̅̅
QR 9m
= sin 132°
sin 18°
̅̅̅̅ × sin 132° = 9 m × sin 18°
QR
sin 132° = sin(180° − 132° ) = sin 48°
̅̅̅̅
QR × sin 48° = 9 m × sin 18°
̅̅̅̅×sin 48°
QR 9 m×sin 18°
=
sin 48° sin 48°
9 m×sin 18°
̅̅̅̅ =
QR sin 48°
9 m×0.3090
̅̅̅̅
QR = 0.7431
∴ ̅̅̅̅
QR = 3.7 m
118. Show that there is no triangle for which 𝑎 = 15 cm, 𝑏 = 25 cm and
𝐴 = 85° .
Solution
Begin by making a sketch, as shown in figure below.

𝑎 = 15 cm
𝑏 = 25 cm ℎ

85°
A
Note: No solution 𝑎 < ℎ
From the figure above, it appears that no triangle is formed. You can verify
this by using the Law of Sines.
sin 𝐴 sin 𝐵
=
𝑎 𝑏

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
sin 85° sin 𝐵
=
15 25
25×sin 85°
sin 𝐵 = 15
25×0.9962
sin 𝐵 = 15
sin 𝐵 = 1.6603 > 1
This contradicts the fact that |sin 𝐵| ≤ 1. So, no triangle can be formed having
sides 𝑎 = 15 cm, 𝑏 = 25 cm and an angle of 𝐴 = 85° .
√sin A−√sin B 𝑎+𝑏−2√𝑎𝑏
119. Show that =
√sin A+√sin B 𝑎−𝑏
Solution
From sine rule,
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
= sin B = sin C = 𝑘
sin A
𝑎
=𝑘
sin A
𝑎
sin A = 𝑘 − − − −(i)
𝑏
=𝑘
sin B
𝑏
sin B = 𝑘 − − − −(ii)
𝑐
=𝑘
sin C
𝑐
sin 𝐶 = 𝑘 − − − −(iii)
Consider LHS.
√sin A−√sin B √sin A−√sin B √sin A−√sin B
=( )( )
√sin A+√sin B √sinA+√sin B √sin A−√sin B
√sin A−√sin B sin A−√sin A sin B−√sin A sin B+sin B
= sin A−√sin A sin B+√sin A sin B−sin B
√sin A+√sin B
√sin A−√sin B sin A+sin B−2√sin A sin B
=
√sin A+√sin B sin A−sin B
𝑎 𝑏 𝑎 𝑏
√sin A−√sin B + −2√ ×
𝑘 𝑘 𝑘 𝑘
= 𝑎 𝑏
√sin A+√sin B −
𝑘 𝑘
𝑎 𝑏 𝑎𝑏
√sin A−√sin B + −2√ 2
𝑘 𝑘 𝑘
= 𝑎 𝑏
√sin A+√sin B −
𝑘 𝑘
𝑎 𝑏 2
√sin A−√sin B + − √𝑎𝑏
𝑘 𝑘 𝑘
= 𝑎 𝑏
√sin A+√sin B −
𝑘 𝑘
1
√sin A−√sin B (𝑎+𝑏−2√𝑎𝑏)
𝑘
= 1
√sin A+√sin B (𝑎−𝑏)
𝑘

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
√sin A−√sin B 𝑎+𝑏−2√𝑎𝑏
∴ = ; Hence shown
√sin A+√sin B 𝑎−𝑏
120. The angle of elevation of the top point P of the vertical tower PQ of height
h from a point A is 45° and from a point B, the angle of elevation is 60° , where
B is a point at a distance d from the point A measured along the line AB which
makes an angle 30° with AQ. Prove that 𝑑 = ℎ(√3 − 1).
Solution
Consider the figure below.
P

ℎ
60° H
𝑑 B
45°
30°
A Q
Consider ∆APQ.
AP̂Q + PQ ̂ A + QA ̂ P = 180°
AP̂Q + 90° + 45° = 180°
AP̂Q + 135° = 180°
AP̂Q = 180° − 135°
AP̂Q = 45°
AP̂Q = QA ̂ P and ̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅̅.
QA = QP
From Pythagoras’ theorem,
̅̅̅̅2 = ̅̅̅̅
AP QA2 + QP̅̅̅̅2
̅̅̅̅2 = ℎ2 + ℎ2
AP
̅̅̅̅
AP 2 = 2ℎ2
√̅̅̅̅
AP 2 = √2ℎ2
̅̅̅̅ = ℎ√2 − − − −(i)
AP
Consider ∆BPH.
̂H + PH
BP ̂ B + HB
̂ P = 180°
̂H + 90° + 60° = 180°
BP
̂H + 150° = 180°
BP
̂H = 180° − 150°
BP
̂H = 30°
BP
Consider ∆ABP.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Since AP̂Q = 45° and BP̂H = 30° , then BP̂A = 45° − 30° = 15°
̂ P = 45° and QA
Also since QA ̂ B = 30° , then PA
̂ B = 45° − 30° = 15°
̂ P + BP
AB ̂A + PÂ B = 180°
̂ P + 15° + 15° = 180°
AB
̂ P + 30° = 180°
AB
̂ P = 180° − 30°
AB
̂ P = 150°
AB
From sine rule,
̅̅̅̅
AB ̅̅̅̅
AP
= sin 150°
sin 15°
𝑑 ̅̅̅̅
AP
= sin 150° − − − −(ii)
sin 15°
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii) above.
𝑑 ℎ√2
= sin 150°
sin 15°
𝑑 ℎ√2
= sin(180° −150° )
sin(45° −30° )
𝑑 ℎ√2
= sin 30°
sin 45° cos 30° −cos 45° sin 30°
𝑑 ℎ√2
= sin 30°
sin 45° cos 30° −cos 45° sin 30°
From,

𝑑 ℎ√2
√2 √3 √2 1
= 1
( )( )−( )( ) 2
2 2 2 2
𝑑
√6 √2
= 2ℎ√2
−
4 4
𝑑
√6−√2
= 2ℎ√2
4
4𝑑
= 2ℎ√2
√6−√2
4𝑑 √6+√2
( )( ) = 2ℎ√2
√6−√2 √6+√2
4𝑑(√6+√2)
6+√12−√12−2
= 2ℎ√2
4𝑑(√6+√2)
= 2ℎ√2
4

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑑(√6 + √2) = 2ℎ√2
𝑑[(√2)(√3) + √2] = 2ℎ√2
𝑑√2(√3 + 1) = 2ℎ√2
𝑑√2(√3+1) 2ℎ√2
=
√2 √2
𝑑(√3 + 1) = 2ℎ
𝑑(√3+1) 2ℎ
=
√3+1 √3+1
2
𝑑 = ℎ( )
√3+1
2 √3−1
𝑑 = ℎ [( )( )]
√3+1 √3−1
2(√3−1)
𝑑 = ℎ [3−√3+√3−1]
2(√3−1)
𝑑 = ℎ[ ]
2
∴ 𝑑 = ℎ(√3 − 1); Hence proved.
121. A tower 125 ft high is on a cliff on the bank of a river. From the top of
the tower, the angle of depression of a point on the opposite shore is 28° 40′ ,
and from the base of the tower, the angle of depression of the same point is
18° 20′ . Find:
(a) The width of the river.
(b) The height of the cliff.
Solution
Let BC represents the tower, DB represents the cliff, and A is the point
on the opposite shore, then consider the figure below.
C
28° 40′

B
18° 20′

A D
From the figure above,
∠ACB = 90° − 28° 40′ = 61° 20′
∠CBA = 90° + 18° 20′ = 108° 20′
∠BAC = 180° − (∠CBA + ∠ACB)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
∠BAC = 180° − (108° 20′ + 61° 20′ ) = 180° − 169° 40′ = 10° 20′
The figure above is drawn below.
C
28° 40′
61° 20′ 125 ft
108° 20′
𝑏 18° 20′ B

18° 20′
A D
From sine rule,
𝑐 125
=
sin 61° 20′ sin 10° 20′
125×sin 61° 20′
𝑐= sin 10° 20′
125×0.8774
𝑐= 0.1794
𝑐 = 611.3 ft
(a) In right triangle ABD:
From,

𝐴𝐷
cos 18° 20′ = 611.3
AD = 611.3 cos 18° 20′
AD = 611.3 × 0.9492 = 580.2 ft
∴ The width of the river is 580.2 ft.
𝐵𝐷
(b) sin 18° 20′ = 611.3
BD = 611.3 sin 18° 20′
BD = 611.3 × 0.3146 = 192.3
∴ The height of the cliff is 192.3 ft.
122. The course for a boat race starts at point A and proceeds in the direction
S 52° W to point B, then in the direction S 40° E to point C, and finally back
to point A, as shown in figure below. Point C lies 8 kilometers directly south
of point A.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

Approximate the total distance of the race course.

Solution
Because lines BD and AC are parallel, it follows that ∠BCA ≅ ∠DBC.
𝐵 = 180° − 52° − 40° = 88°
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
From sine rule sin A = sin B = sin C
𝑎 8 𝑐
= sin 88° = sin 40°
sin 52°
𝑎 8
=
sin 52° sin 88°
8×sin 52°
𝑎= sin 88°
8×0.7880
𝑎= 0.9994
𝑎 = 6.31 km
8 𝑐
=
sin 88° sin 40°
8×sin 40°
𝑐= sin 88°
8×0.6428
𝑐=
0.9994
𝑐 = 5.15
The total distance of the course = 6.31 km + 8 km + 5.15 km = 19.46 km.
∴ The total distance of the race course is approximately 19.46 km.
123. (a) Derive the cosine rule.
(b) State the cosine rule.
(c) When the cosine rule may be useful in a triangle?
Solution
(a) Consider a triangle ABC in which the side ̅̅̅̅
BD is perpendicular to the line
̅̅̅̅
drawn from point B to the side AC.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
BD be ℎ, ̅̅̅̅
Let, the side ̅̅̅̅ AD = 𝑥 and ̅̅̅̅
DC = 𝑏 − 𝑥 as shown in the figure
below
B

𝑐 𝑎
ℎ
A C
𝑥 D𝑏−𝑥
𝑏
Figure: Illustration for the cosine rule
By drawing a line perpendicular to side ̅̅̅̅
AC from angle B, the triangle ABD
and CBD are formed. From a right – angled triangle ABD, using the
Pythagoras’ theorem gives:
ℎ2 + 𝑥 2 = 𝑐 2
ℎ2 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑥 2 − − − −(i)
Also from a right – angled triangle CBD, using the Pythagoras’ theorem
gives:
ℎ2 + (𝑏 − 𝑥)2 = 𝑎2
ℎ2 = 𝑎2 − (𝑏 − 𝑥)2 − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).
𝑐 2 − 𝑥 2 = 𝑎2 − (𝑏 − 𝑥)2
𝑐 2 − 𝑥 2 = 𝑎2 − (𝑏 2 − 2𝑏𝑥 + 𝑥 2 )
𝑐 2 − 𝑥 2 = 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 + 2𝑏𝑥 − 𝑥 2
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 + 2𝑏𝑥 − − − −(iii)
From a right – angled triangle ABD,
𝑥
cos A = 𝑐
𝑥 = 𝑐 cos A − − − −(iv)
Substitute equation (iv) into equation (iii).
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 + 2𝑏𝑐 cos A − − − −(v)
Rearrange equation (v) above.
−𝑎2 = −𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 + 2𝑏𝑐 cos A
−(𝑎2 ) = −(𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos A)
𝑎2 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos A − − − −(vi)
Also, when the altitude is drawn from point A or from point C, the similar
expression for the other side of the triangle ABC can be obtained as:
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B − − − −(vii)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C − − − −(viii)
Hence, equations (vi), (vii), and (viii) are the formulae for the cosine rule.
(b) The cosine rule states that “ The square of the length of any side of a
triangle equals the sum of the squares of the length of the other sides minus
twice their product multiplied by the cosine of their included angle”
(c) The cosine rule may be useful in a triangle when:
(i) Two sides and an included angle are given.
(ii) Three sides are given.
Note:
 Two cases remain in the list of conditions needed to solve an oblique
triangle – SSS and SAS. When you are given three sides (SSS) or two
sides and their included angle (SAS), none of the ratios in the Law of Sines
would be complete. In such cases you can use the Law of Cosines.
 Law of cosines
Standard Form Alternative Form
2 2 2 𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2
𝑎 = 𝑏 + 𝑐 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos A cos A = 2𝑏𝑐
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B cos B =
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2
2𝑎𝑐
2 2 2 𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
𝑐 = 𝑎 + 𝑏 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C cos C =
2𝑎𝑏
124. Find the unknown side and angles in the following triangle.

𝑡
5 cm

113°
U
4 cm
T
Solution

Let S, T, and U represent the angles in the ∆STU.

By using the cosine rule,
𝑡 2 = 𝑠 2 + 𝑢2 − 2𝑠𝑢 cos T
𝑡 2 = 42 + 52 − 2(4)(5) cos 113°
𝑡 2 = 16 + 25 − 40[− cos(180° − 113° )]

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑡 2 = 41 − 40(− cos 67° )

𝑡 2 = 41 − 40(−0.3907)
𝑡 2 = 41 + 15.628
𝑡 2 = 56.628
√𝑡 2 = √56.628
𝑡 = 7.525 cm
𝑢2 = 𝑠 2 + 𝑡 2 − 2𝑠𝑡 cos U
52 = 42 + 7.5252 − 2(4)(7.525) cos U
25 = 72.62 − 60.2 cos U
60.2 cos U = 72.62 − 25
60.2 cos U = 47.62
60.2 cos U 47.62
=
60.2 60.2
cos U = 0.7910
U = cos −1 (0.7910)
U = 37° 52′
ST̂U + TÛ S + UŜT = 180° − − − (sum of angles in a triangle)
113° + 37° 52′ + UŜT = 180°
150° 52′ + UŜT = 180°
UŜT = 180° − 150° 52′
UŜT = 29° 8′
∴ 𝑡 = 7.525 cm, Ŝ = 29° 8′ , U
̂ = 37° 52′
125. Calculate the angles of a triangle which has sides of lengths 4 cm, 5 cm
and 7 cm.
Solution
Consider the figure below.
C
𝑏 = 5 cm 𝑎 = 4 cm

A 𝑐 = 7 cm B
Using cosine rule,
𝑎2 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos A
42 = 52 + 72 − 2(5)(7) cos A
16 = 25 + 49 − 70 cos A
16 = 74 − 70 cos A

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
70 cos A = 74 − 16
70 cos A = 58
70 cos A 58
= 70
70
cos A = 0.8286
A = cos−1 (0.8286)
A = 34.05°
Again
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B
52 = 42 + 72 − 2(4)(7) cos B
25 = 16 + 49 − 56 cos B
25 = 65 − 56 cos B
56 cos B = 65 − 25
56 cos B = 40
56 cos B 40
= 56
56
cos B = 0.7143
B = cos −1(0.7143)
B = 44.4°
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C
72 = 42 + 52 − 2(4)(5) cos C
49 = 16 + 25 − 40 cos C
49 = 41 − 40 cos C
40 cos C = 41 − 49
40 cos C = −8
40 cos C −8
=
40 40
cos C = −0.2000
C = cos−1(−0.2000)
C = 101.5°
∴ The required angles are 34.05° , 44.4° and 101.5°
126. In a triangle ABC, if (𝑎 + 𝑏 + 𝑐)(𝑎 − 𝑏 + 𝑐) = 3𝑎𝑐, then find ∠𝐵.
Solution
(𝑎
We have + 𝑏 + 𝑐)(𝑎 − 𝑏 + 𝑐) = 3𝑎𝑐
𝑎2 − 𝑎𝑏 + 𝑎𝑐 + 𝑎𝑏 − 𝑏 2 + 𝑏𝑐 + 𝑎𝑐 − 𝑏𝑐 + 𝑐 2 = 3𝑎𝑐
𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 + 2𝑎𝑐 = 3𝑎𝑐
𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 = 3𝑎𝑐 − 2𝑎𝑐
𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 = 𝑎𝑐

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
1 1
(𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 ) = (𝑎𝑐)
2 2
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏2 𝑎𝑐
=
2 2
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏2 𝑎𝑐
= 2𝑎𝑐
2𝑎𝑐
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏2 1
= 2 − − − −(i)
2𝑎𝑐
From cosine rule,
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B
2𝑎𝑐 cos B = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2
cos B = − − − −(ii)
2𝑎𝑐
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).
1
cos B = 2
cos B = 0.5000
B = cos −1(0.5000)
B = 60°
∴ ∠𝐵 = 60°
1 1 3
127. If 𝑎+𝑐 + 𝑏+𝑐 = 𝑎+𝑏+𝑐, then find ∠𝐶.
Solution
1 1 3
Given 𝑎+𝑐 + 𝑏+𝑐 = 𝑎+𝑏+𝑐
1 1 3
(𝑎+𝑐 + 𝑏+𝑐) (𝑎 + 𝑏 + 𝑐) = (𝑎+𝑏+𝑐) (𝑎 + 𝑏 + 𝑐)
𝑎+𝑏+𝑐 𝑎+𝑏+𝑐
+ =3
𝑎+𝑐 𝑏+𝑐
𝑎+𝑐 𝑏 𝑏+𝑐 𝑎
+ 𝑎+𝑐 + 𝑏+𝑐 + 𝑏+𝑐 = 3
𝑎+𝑐
𝑏 𝑎
1 + 𝑎+𝑐 + 1 + 𝑏+𝑐 = 3
𝑏 𝑎
+ +2=3
𝑎+𝑐 𝑏+𝑐
𝑏 𝑎
+ =1
𝑎+𝑐 𝑏+𝑐
𝑏(𝑏+𝑐)+𝑎(𝑎+𝑐)
(𝑎+𝑐)(𝑏+𝑐)
=1
𝑏(𝑏+𝑐)+𝑎(𝑎+𝑐)
[ (𝑎+𝑐)(𝑏+𝑐) ] [(𝑎 + 𝑐)(𝑏 + 𝑐)] = (𝑎 + 𝑐)(𝑏 + 𝑐)
𝑏(𝑏 + 𝑐) + 𝑎(𝑎 + 𝑐) = (𝑎 + 𝑐)(𝑏 + 𝑐)
𝑏 2 + 𝑏𝑐 + 𝑎2 + 𝑎𝑐 = 𝑎𝑏 + 𝑎𝑐 + 𝑏𝑐 + 𝑐 2
𝑏 2 + 𝑎2 = 𝑎𝑏 + 𝑐 2
𝑏 2 + 𝑎2 − 𝑐 2 = 𝑎𝑏 − − − −(i)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
From cosine rule,
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C
2𝑎𝑏 cos C = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
cos C = − − − −(ii)
2𝑎𝑏
Substitute equation (ii) into equation (i).
𝑎𝑏
cos C = 2𝑎𝑏
1
cos C = 2
1
𝐶 = cos −1 (2)
𝐶 = 60°
∴ ∠𝐶 = 60°
128. The lengths of the sides of a triangle are 𝛼 − 𝛽, 𝛼 + 𝛽 and √3𝛼 2 + 𝛽 2 ,
(𝛼 > 𝛽 > 0). Find its largest angle.
Solution
Let 𝑎 = 𝛼 − 𝛽, 𝑏 = 𝛼 + 𝛽 , 𝑐 = √3𝛼 2 + 𝛽 2
From cosine rule,
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C
2𝑎𝑏 cos C = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
cos C = 2𝑎𝑏
2
(𝛼−𝛽)2 +(𝛼+𝛽 )2 −(√3𝛼2 +𝛽2 )
cos C = 2(𝛼−𝛽)(𝛼+𝛽)
(𝛼−𝛽)(𝛼−𝛽)+(𝛼+𝛽)(𝛼+𝛽)−(3𝛼2 +𝛽 2 )
cos C = 2(𝛼−𝛽)(𝛼+𝛽)
𝛼2 −𝛼𝛽−𝛼𝛽+𝛽 2 +𝛼2 +𝛼𝛽+𝛼𝛽+𝛽 2 −(3𝛼2 +𝛽 2 )
cos C = 2(𝛼2 +𝛼𝛽−𝛼𝛽−𝛽 2 )
𝛼2 −2𝛼𝛽+𝛽 2 +𝛼2 +2𝛼𝛽+𝛽 2 −(3𝛼2 +𝛽 2 )
cos C =
2(𝛼2 −𝛽 2 )
𝛼2 −2𝛼𝛽+𝛽 2 +𝛼2 +2𝛼𝛽+𝛽 2 −3𝛼2 −𝛽 2
cos C = 2(𝛼2 −𝛽 2 )
𝛽 2 −𝛼2
cos C = 2(𝛼2 −𝛽2 )
−(−𝛽 2 +𝛼2 )
cos C = 2(𝛼2 −𝛽 2 )
−(𝛼2 −𝛽 2 )
cos C = 2(𝛼2 −𝛽 2 )
1
cos C = − 2
cos C = −0.5000

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
The value of cos 𝜃 is negative in the second and third quadrants.
1st case: In the second quadrant.
− cos(180° − θ) = −0.5000
cos(180° − θ) = 0.5000
180° − θ = cos −1 (0.5000)
180° − θ = 60°
𝜃 = 180° − 60° = 120°
2nd case: In the third quadrant.
− cos(θ − 180° ) = −0.5000
cos(θ − 180° ) = 0.5000
θ − 180° = cos −1 (0.5000)
θ − 180° = 60°
θ = 60° + 180°
θ = 240° (Ignore)
∴ The largest angle is 120° .
129. In a triangle ABC, if ∠𝐴 = 60° , then find the value of
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 𝑎
(1 + 𝑐 + 𝑐 ) (1 + 𝑏 − 𝑏).
Solution
°
Given ∠𝐴 = 60
cos A = cos 60°
1
cos A = 2
From cosine rule,
𝑎2 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos A
2𝑏𝑐 cos A = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2
= cos A
2𝑏𝑐
𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2 1
=2
2𝑏𝑐
𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 = 𝑏𝑐 − − − −(i)
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 𝑎 1 𝑎 𝑏 1 𝑐 𝑎
(1 + 𝑐 + 𝑐 ) (1 + 𝑏 − 𝑏) = (1 + 𝑐 + 𝑐 ) (1 + 𝑏 − 𝑏)
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 𝑎 𝑐+𝑎+𝑏 𝑏+𝑐−𝑎
(1 + 𝑐 + 𝑐 ) (1 + 𝑏 − 𝑏) = ( )( )
𝑐 𝑏
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 𝑎 𝑏𝑐+𝑎𝑏+𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 +𝑎𝑐+𝑏𝑐−𝑎𝑐−𝑎2 −𝑎𝑏
(1 + 𝑐 + 𝑐 ) (1 + 𝑏 − 𝑏) = 𝑏𝑐
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 𝑎 𝑏𝑐+𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 +𝑏𝑐−𝑎2
(1 + 𝑐 + 𝑐 ) (1 + 𝑏 − 𝑏) = 𝑏𝑐

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 𝑎 𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2 +2𝑏𝑐
(1 + + ) (1 + − ) = − − − −(ii)
𝑐 𝑐 𝑏 𝑏 𝑏𝑐
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 𝑎 𝑏𝑐+2𝑏𝑐
(1 + 𝑐 + 𝑐 ) (1 + 𝑏 − 𝑏) = 𝑏𝑐
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 𝑎 3𝑏𝑐
(1 + 𝑐 + 𝑐 ) (1 + 𝑏 − 𝑏) = 𝑏𝑐
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 𝑎
∴ (1 + 𝑐 + 𝑐 ) (1 + 𝑏 − 𝑏) = 3
cos 𝐴 cos 𝐵 cos 𝐶 𝑎2 +𝑏2 +𝑐 2
130. For any triangle ABC, show that + + =
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 2𝑎𝑏𝑐
Solution
Consider LHS
𝑎2 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos A
2𝑏𝑐 cos A = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2
cos A = − − − −(i)
2𝑏𝑐
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B
2

2𝑎𝑐 cos B = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2
cos B = − − − −(ii)
2𝑎𝑐
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C
2

2𝑎𝑏 cos C = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
cos C = − − − −(iii)
2𝑎𝑏
𝑏2 +𝑐2 −𝑎2 𝑎2 +𝑐2 −𝑏2 𝑎2 +𝑏2 −𝑐2
cos 𝐴 cos 𝐵 cos 𝐶 2𝑏𝑐 2𝑎𝑐 2𝑎𝑏
+ + = + +
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
cos 𝐴 cos 𝐵 cos 𝐶 𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2 𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
+ + = + +
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 2𝑎𝑏𝑐 2𝑎𝑏𝑐 2𝑎𝑏𝑐
cos 𝐴 cos 𝐵 cos 𝐶 𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2 +𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏2 +𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
+ + =
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 2𝑎𝑏𝑐
cos 𝐴 cos 𝐵 cos 𝐶 𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 +𝑎2
+ + =
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 2𝑎𝑏𝑐
cos 𝐴 cos 𝐵 cos 𝐶 𝑎2 +𝑏 2 +𝑐 2
∴ + + =
; Hence shown.
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 2𝑎𝑏𝑐
131. Triangle ABC is isosceles with ̅̅̅̅
AB = ̅̅̅̅
BC.
B

𝑐 𝑎

A 𝑏 C

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

𝑏2
Prove that cos 𝐵 = 1 − 2𝑎2 .
Solution
̅̅̅̅
AB = ̅̅̅̅
BC = 𝑎 = 𝑐
𝑏 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B
2

𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑎2 − 2𝑎(𝑎) cos B
𝑏 2 = 2𝑎2 − 2𝑎2 cos B
𝑏 2 = 2𝑎2 (1 − cos B)
𝑏2
= 1 − cos B
2𝑎2
𝑏2
∴ cos 𝐵 = 1 − 2𝑎2 ; Hence proved.
𝑎
132. In any ∆ABC, if 2 cos 𝐵 = 𝑐 , prove that the triangle is isosceles.
Solution
𝑎
Given 2 cos 𝐵 = 𝑐
𝑎
2 cos 𝐵 = 𝑐 − − − −(i)
From cosine rule,
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B
2𝑎𝑐 cos B = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2
cos B = − − − −(ii)
2𝑎𝑐
Substitute equation (ii) into equation (i).
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏2 𝑎
2( )=
2𝑎𝑐 𝑐
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏2
( )=𝑎
𝑎
𝑎 + 𝑐 − 𝑏2 = 𝑎2
2 2

𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 − 𝑎2
𝑐 2 − 𝑏2 = 0
𝑐 2 = 𝑏2
𝑐=𝑏
∴ The triangle is is isosceles.
133. In a triangle ABC, if 𝑎 cos 𝐴 = 𝑏 cos 𝐵, then prove that the triangle is right
angled isosceles.
Solution
Given 𝑎 cos 𝐴 = 𝑏 cos 𝐵
𝑎 cos 𝐴 = 𝑏 cos 𝐵 − − − −(i)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
From cosine rule,
𝑎2 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos A
2𝑏𝑐 cos A = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2
cos A = − − − −(ii)
2𝑏𝑐
Also,
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B
2𝑎𝑐 cos B = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2
cos B = − − − −(iii)
2𝑎𝑐
Substitute equation (ii) and (iii) into equation (i).
𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏2
𝑎( ) = 𝑏( )
2𝑏𝑐 2𝑎𝑐
𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏2
𝑎( ) = 𝑏( )
𝑏 𝑎
𝑎(𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2 ) 𝑏(𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏2 )
=
𝑏 𝑎
2 (𝑏 2
𝑎 + 𝑐 − 𝑎 = 𝑏 2 (𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 )
2 2)

𝑎2 𝑏 2 + 𝑎2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎4 = 𝑎2 𝑏 2 + 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 4
𝑎2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎4 = 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 4
𝑎2 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 = 𝑎4 − 𝑏 4
𝑐 2 (𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 ) = (𝑎2 )2 − (𝑏 2 )2
𝑐 2 (𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 ) = (𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 )(𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 )
𝑐 2 (𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 ) − (𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 )(𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 ) = 0
(𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 )[𝑐 2 − (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 )] = 0
𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 = 0 or 𝑐 2 − (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 ) = 0
𝑎2 = 𝑏 2 or 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 = 𝑐 2
𝑎 = 𝑏 or 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 = 𝑐 2
∴ The triangle is right angled isosceles.
134. For any triangle ABC, show that 𝑎 (𝑏 cos 𝐶 − 𝑐 cos 𝐵 ) = 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
Solution
Consider LHS
From cosine rule,
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C
2𝑎𝑏 cos C = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
cos C = − − − −(i)
2𝑎𝑏
Also,
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
2𝑎𝑐 cos B = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2
cos B = − − − −(ii)
2𝑎𝑐
𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2
𝑎(𝑏 cos 𝐶 − 𝑐 cos 𝐵) = 𝑎 [𝑏 ( )−𝑐( )]
2𝑎𝑏 2𝑎𝑐
𝑏 𝑐
𝑎(𝑏 cos 𝐶 − 𝑐 cos 𝐵) = 𝑎 [2𝑎𝑏 (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 ) − 2𝑎𝑐 (𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 )]
1 1
𝑎(𝑏 cos 𝐶 − 𝑐 cos 𝐵) = 𝑎 [2𝑎 (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 ) − 2𝑎 (𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 )]
𝑎
𝑎(𝑏 cos 𝐶 − 𝑐 cos 𝐵) = 2𝑎 [(𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 ) − (𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 )]
1
𝑎(𝑏 cos 𝐶 − 𝑐 cos 𝐵) = 2 (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 − 𝑐 2 + 𝑏 2 )
1
𝑎(𝑏 cos 𝐶 − 𝑐 cos 𝐵) = 2 (2𝑏 2 − 2𝑐 2 )
2
𝑎(𝑏 cos 𝐶 − 𝑐 cos 𝐵) = 2 (𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )
∴ 𝑎(𝑏 cos 𝐶 − 𝑐 cos 𝐵) = 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 ; Hence shown.
135. In any triangle ABC, show that 𝑏(𝑐 cos 𝐴 − 𝑎 cos 𝐶) = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 .
Solution
Consider LHS
From cosine rule,
𝑎2 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos A
2𝑏𝑐 cos A = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2
cos A = − − − −(i)
2𝑏𝑐
Also,
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C
2𝑎𝑏 cos C = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
cos C = − − − −(ii)
2𝑎𝑏
𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
𝑏(𝑐 cos 𝐴 − 𝑎 cos 𝐶) = 𝑏 [𝑐 ( )−𝑎( )]
2𝑏𝑐 2𝑎𝑏
𝑐 𝑎
𝑏(𝑐 cos 𝐴 − 𝑎 cos 𝐶) = 𝑏 [2𝑏𝑐 (𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ) − 2𝑎𝑏 (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )]
1 1
𝑏(𝑐 cos 𝐴 − 𝑎 cos 𝐶) = 𝑏 [2𝑏 (𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ) − 2𝑏 (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )]
𝑏
𝑏(𝑐 cos 𝐴 − 𝑎 cos 𝐶) = 2𝑏 [(𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ) − (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )]
1
𝑏(𝑐 cos 𝐴 − 𝑎 cos 𝐶) = 2 (𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 − 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 )
1
𝑏(𝑐 cos 𝐴 − 𝑎 cos 𝐶) = 2 (𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 − 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 )
1
𝑏(𝑐 cos 𝐴 − 𝑎 cos 𝐶) = 2 (2𝑐 2 − 2𝑎2 )

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
2
𝑏(𝑐 cos 𝐴 − 𝑎 cos 𝐶) = (𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 )
2
∴ 𝑏(𝑐 cos 𝐴 − 𝑎 cos 𝐶) = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ; Hence shown.
136. For any ∆ABC, show that:
2(𝑏𝑐 cos 𝐴 + 𝑐𝑎 cos 𝐵 + 𝑎𝑏 cos 𝐶) = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2
Solution
Consider LHS.
From cosine rule,
𝑎2 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos A
2𝑏𝑐 cos A = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2
cos A = − − − −(i)
2𝑏𝑐
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B
2

2𝑎𝑐 cos B = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2
cos B = − − − −(ii)
2𝑎𝑐
Also,
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C
2𝑎𝑏 cos C = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
cos C = − − − −(iii)
2𝑎𝑏
𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2
2(𝑏𝑐 cos 𝐴 + 𝑐𝑎 cos 𝐵 + 𝑎𝑏 cos 𝐶) = 2 [𝑏𝑐 ( ) + 𝑐𝑎 ( )+
2𝑏𝑐 2𝑎𝑐
𝑎2 +𝑏2 −𝑐 2
𝑎𝑏 ( )]
2𝑎𝑏
𝑏𝑐 𝑐𝑎
2(𝑏𝑐 cos 𝐴 + 𝑐𝑎 cos 𝐵 + 𝑎𝑏 cos 𝐶) = 2 [2𝑏𝑐 (𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ) + 2𝑎𝑐 (𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 -
𝑎𝑏
− 𝑏2) + (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )]
2𝑎𝑏
1 1
2(𝑏𝑐 cos 𝐴 + 𝑐𝑎 cos 𝐵 + 𝑎𝑏 cos 𝐶) = 2 [2 (𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ) + 2 (𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 −
1
𝑏 2 ) + (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )]
2
2
2(𝑏𝑐 cos 𝐴 + 𝑐𝑎 cos 𝐵 + 𝑎𝑏 cos 𝐶) = 2 [(𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ) + (𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 ) +
(𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )]
2(𝑏𝑐 cos 𝐴 + 𝑐𝑎 cos 𝐵 + 𝑎𝑏 cos 𝐶) = [(𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ) + (𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 ) +
(𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )]
∴ 2(𝑏𝑐 cos 𝐴 + 𝑐𝑎 cos 𝐵 + 𝑎𝑏 cos 𝐶) = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 ; Hence shown.
137. In a triangle ABC, prove that:
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑎2 −𝑏2
( ) sin 2𝐴 + ( ) sin 2𝐵 + ( ) sin 2𝐶 = 0.
𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑐2
Solution

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
For: ( ) sin 2𝐴
𝑎2
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
( ) sin 2𝐴 = ( ) (2 sin 𝐴 . cos 𝐴) − − − −(i)
𝑎2 𝑎2
sin 𝐴 sin 𝐵 sin 𝐶
= = =𝑘
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
sin 𝐴
=𝑘
𝑎
sin 𝐴 = 𝑎𝑘 − − − −(ii)
From cosine rule,
𝑎2 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos A
2𝑏𝑐 cos A = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2
cos A = − − − −(iii)
2𝑏𝑐
Substitute equations (ii) and (iii) into equation (i).
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2
( ) sin 2𝐴 = ( ) [2𝑎𝑘 ( )]
𝑎2 𝑎2 2𝑏𝑐
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2
( ) sin 2𝐴 = ( ) [𝑘 ( )]
𝑎2 𝑎 𝑏𝑐
𝑏 −𝑐 2
2 𝑘
( ) sin 2𝐴 = 𝑎𝑏𝑐 [(𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )(𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 )]
𝑎2
𝑏 −𝑐 2
2 𝑘
( ) sin 2𝐴 = 𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑏 4 + 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 𝑏 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 − 𝑐 4 + 𝑎2 𝑐 2 )
𝑎2
𝑏 −𝑐 2
2 𝑘
( ) sin 2𝐴 = 𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑏 4 − 𝑐 4 + 𝑎2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 𝑏 2 ) − − − −(iv)
𝑎2
𝑐 2 −𝑎2
For ( ) sin 2𝐵
𝑏2
𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑐 2 −𝑎2
( ) sin 2𝐵 = ( ) (2 sin 𝐵 . cos 𝐵) − − − −(v)
𝑏2 𝑏2
sin 𝐴 sin 𝐵 sin 𝐶
= = =𝑘
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
sin 𝐵
=𝑘
𝑏
sin 𝐵 = 𝑏𝑘 − − − −(vi)
From cosine rule,
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B
2𝑎𝑐 cos B = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2
cos B = − − − −(vii)
2𝑎𝑐
Substitute equations (vi) and (vii) into equation (v).
𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2
( ) sin 2𝐵 = ( ) [2𝑏𝑘 ( )]
𝑏2 𝑏2 2𝑎𝑐
𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏2
( ) sin 2𝐵 = ( ) [𝑘 ( )]
𝑏2 𝑏 𝑎𝑐

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑘
( ) sin 2𝐵 = [(𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 )(𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 )]
𝑏2 𝑎𝑏𝑐
𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑘
( ) sin 2𝐵 = 𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑎2 𝑐 2 + 𝑐 4 − 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎4 − 𝑎2 𝑐 2 + 𝑎2 𝑏 2 ) − −(viii)
𝑏2
𝑐 −𝑎2
2 𝑘
( ) sin 2𝐵 = 𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑐 4 − 𝑎4 + 𝑎2 𝑏 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 ) − − − −(ix)
𝑏2
𝑎2 −𝑏2
For: ( ) sin 2𝐶
𝑐2
𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑎2 −𝑏2
( ) sin 2𝐶 = ( ) (2 sin 𝐶 . cos 𝐶) − − − −(x)
𝑐2 𝑐2
sin 𝐴 sin 𝐵 sin 𝐶
𝑎
= 𝑏
= 𝑐
=𝑘
sin 𝐶
=𝑘
𝑐
sin 𝐶 = 𝑐𝑘 − − − −(xi)
From cosine rule,
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C
2𝑎𝑏 cos C = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
cos C = − − − −(xii)
2𝑎𝑏
Substitute equations (xi) and (xii) into equation (x).
𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
( ) sin 2𝐶 = ( ) [2𝑐𝑘 ( )]
𝑐2 𝑐2 2𝑎𝑏
𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑎2 +𝑏2 −𝑐 2
( ) sin 2𝐶 = ( ) [𝑘 ( )]
𝑐2 𝑐 𝑎𝑏
𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑘
( ) sin 2𝐶 = 𝑎𝑏𝑐 [(𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 )(𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )]
𝑐2
𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑘
( ) sin 2𝐶 = 𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑎4 + 𝑎2 𝑏 2 − 𝑎2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 𝑏 2 − 𝑏 4 + 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 )
𝑐2
𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑘
( ) sin 2𝐶 = 𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑎4 − 𝑏 4 + 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 𝑐 2 ) − −(xiii)
𝑐2
Add equations (iv), (ix) and (xiii).
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑎2 −𝑏2
( ) sin 2𝐴 + ( ) sin 2𝐵 + ( ) sin 2𝐶
𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑐2
𝑘 𝑘 𝑘
= 𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑏 4 − 𝑐 4 + 𝑎2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 𝑏 2 ) + 𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑐 4 − 𝑎4 + 𝑎2 𝑏 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 ) + 𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑎4 −
𝑏 4 + 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 𝑐 2 )
𝑘
= 𝑎𝑏𝑐 [(𝑏 4 − 𝑐 4 + 𝑎2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 𝑏 2 ) + (𝑐 4 − 𝑎4 + 𝑎2 𝑏 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 ) + (𝑎4 − 𝑏 4 +
𝑏 2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 𝑐 2 )]
𝑘
= 𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑏 4 − 𝑐 4 + 𝑎2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 4 − 𝑎4 + 𝑎2 𝑏 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 + 𝑎4 − 𝑏 4 +
𝑏 2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 𝑐 2 )
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑘
( ) sin 2𝐴 + ( ) sin 2𝐵 + ( ) sin 2𝐶 = 𝑎𝑏𝑐 (0)
𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑐2

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑎2 −𝑏2
∴( ) sin 2𝐴 + ( ) sin 2𝐵 + ( ) sin 2𝐶 = 0; Hence proved.
𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑐2
138. In any triangle ABC, show that:
𝑎 sin(𝐵 − 𝐶) + 𝑏 sin(𝐶 − 𝐴) + 𝑐 sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 0
Solution
Consider LHS
For: 𝑎 sin(𝐵 − 𝐶)
𝑎 sin(𝐵 − 𝐶) = 𝑎[sin B cos C − cos B sin C] − − − −(i)
sin 𝐴 sin 𝐵 sin 𝐶
= = =𝑘
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
sin 𝐵
=𝑘
𝑏
sin 𝐵 = 𝑏𝑘 − − − −(ii)
sin 𝐶
=𝑘
𝑐
sin 𝐶 = 𝑐𝑘 − − − −(iii)
From cosine rule,
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B
2𝑎𝑐 cos B = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2
cos B = − − − −(iv)
2𝑎𝑐
Also,
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C
2𝑎𝑏 cos C = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
cos C = − − − −(v)
2𝑎𝑏
Substititute equations (ii), (iii), (iv) and (v) into equation (i) above.
𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2
𝑎 sin(𝐵 − 𝐶) = 𝑎 [𝑏𝑘 ( )−( ) 𝑐𝑘]
2𝑎𝑏 2𝑎𝑐
𝑏𝑘 𝑐𝑘
𝑎 sin(𝐵 − 𝐶) = 𝑎 [2𝑎𝑏 (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 ) − 2𝑎𝑐 (𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 )]
𝑘 𝑘
𝑎 sin(𝐵 − 𝐶) = 𝑎 [2𝑎 (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 ) − 2𝑎 (𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 )]
𝑎𝑘
𝑎 sin(𝐵 − 𝐶) = 2𝑎 [(𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 ) − (𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 )]
𝑘
𝑎 sin(𝐵 − 𝐶) = 2 (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 − 𝑐 2 + 𝑏 2 )
𝑘
𝑎 sin(𝐵 − 𝐶) = 2 (𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 − 𝑐 2 + 𝑏 2 )
𝑘
𝑎 sin(𝐵 − 𝐶) = 2 (2𝑏 2 − 2𝑐 2 )
2𝑘
𝑎 sin(𝐵 − 𝐶) = (𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )
2
𝑎 sin(𝐵 − 𝐶) = 𝑘(𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 ) − − − −(vi)

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
For: 𝑏 sin(𝐶 − 𝐴)
𝑏 sin(𝐶 − 𝐴) = 𝑏[sin C cos A − cos C sin A] − − − −(vii)
sin 𝐴 sin 𝐵 sin 𝐶
= = =𝑘
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
sin 𝐴
=𝑘
𝑎
sin 𝐴 = 𝑎𝑘 − − − −(viii)
From cosine rule,
𝑎2 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos A
2𝑏𝑐 cos A = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2
cos A = − − − −(ix)
2𝑏𝑐
Substititute equations (iii), (v), (viii) and (xi) into equation (vii) above.
𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
𝑏 sin(𝐶 − 𝐴) = 𝑏 [𝑐𝑘 ( )−( ) 𝑎𝑘]
2𝑏𝑐 2𝑎𝑏
𝑐𝑘 𝑎𝑘
𝑏 sin(𝐶 − 𝐴) = 𝑏 [2𝑏𝑐 (𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ) − 2𝑎𝑏 (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )]
𝑘 𝑘
𝑏 sin(𝐶 − 𝐴) = 𝑏 [2𝑏 (𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ) − 2𝑏 (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )]
𝑏𝑘
𝑏 sin(𝐶 − 𝐴) = 2𝑏 [(𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ) − (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )]
𝑘
𝑏 sin(𝐶 − 𝐴) = 2 (𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 − 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 )
𝑘
𝑏 sin(𝐶 − 𝐴) = 2 (𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 − 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 )
𝑘
𝑏 sin(𝐶 − 𝐴) = 2 (2𝑐 2 − 2𝑎2 )
2𝑘
𝑏 sin(𝐶 − 𝐴) = (𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 )
2
𝑏 sin(𝐶 − 𝐴) = 𝑘(𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ) − − − −(x)
For: 𝑐 sin(𝐴 − 𝐵)
𝑐 sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 𝑐[sin A cos B − cos A sin B] − − − −(xi)
Substititute equations (ii), (iv), (viii) and (ix) into equation (xi) above.
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2 𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2
𝑐 sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 𝑐 [𝑎𝑘 ( )−( ) 𝑏𝑘]
2𝑎𝑐 2𝑏𝑐
𝑎𝑘 𝑏𝑘
𝑐 sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 𝑐 [2𝑎𝑐 (𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 ) − 2𝑏𝑐 (𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 )]
𝑘 𝑘
𝑐 sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 𝑐 [2𝑐 (𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 ) − 2𝑐 (𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 )]
𝑐𝑘
𝑐 sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 2𝑐 [(𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 ) − (𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 )]
𝑘
𝑐 sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 2 (𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 − 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 + 𝑎2 )
𝑘
𝑐 sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 2 (𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 − 𝑏 2 + 𝑎2 )

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑘
𝑐 sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = (2𝑎2 − 2𝑏 2 )
2
2𝑘
𝑐 sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = (𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 )
2
𝑐 sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 𝑘(𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 ) − − − −(xii)
Now,
𝑎 sin(𝐵 − 𝐶) + 𝑏 sin(𝐶 − 𝐴) + 𝑐 sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 𝑘(𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 ) + 𝑘(𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ) + 𝑘(𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 )
𝑎 sin(𝐵 − 𝐶) + 𝑏 sin(𝐶 − 𝐴) + 𝑐 sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 𝑘[(𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 ) + (𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ) + (𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 )]
𝑎 sin(𝐵 − 𝐶) + 𝑏 sin(𝐶 − 𝐴) + 𝑐 sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 𝑘(𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 + 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 )
𝑎 sin(𝐵 − 𝐶) + 𝑏 sin(𝐶 − 𝐴) + 𝑐 sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 𝑘(0)
∴ 𝑎 sin(𝐵 − 𝐶) + 𝑏 sin(𝐶 − 𝐴) + 𝑐 sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 0; Hence shown.
sin(𝐵−𝐶) 𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
139. For any triangle ABC, show that sin(𝐵+𝑐) = 𝑎2
Solution
Consider LHS
sin(𝐵−𝐶) sin B cos C−cos B sin C
= sin B cos C+cos B sin C − − − −(i)
sin(𝐵+𝐶)
sin 𝐴 sin 𝐵 sin 𝐶
= = =𝑘
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
sin 𝐵
=𝑘
𝑏
sin 𝐵 = 𝑏𝑘 − − − −(ii)
sin 𝐶
=𝑘
𝑐
sin 𝐶 = 𝑐𝑘 − − − −(iii)
From cosine rule,
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B
2𝑎𝑐 cos B = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2
cos B = − − − −(iv)
2𝑎𝑐
Also,
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C
2𝑎𝑏 cos C = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
cos C = − − − −(v)
2𝑎𝑏
Substititute equations (ii), (iii), (iv) and (v) into equation (i) above.
𝑎2 +𝑏2 −𝑐2 𝑎2 +𝑐2 −𝑏2
sin(𝐵−𝐶) 𝑏𝑘( )−( )𝑐𝑘
2𝑎𝑏 2𝑎𝑐
= 𝑎2 +𝑏2 −𝑐2 𝑎2 +𝑐2 −𝑏2
sin(𝐵+𝐶) 𝑏𝑘( )+( )𝑐𝑘
2𝑎𝑏 2𝑎𝑐
𝑏𝑘 𝑐𝑘
sin(𝐵−𝐶) (𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 )− (𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏2 )
2𝑎𝑏 2𝑎𝑐
= 𝑏𝑘 𝑐𝑘
sin(𝐵+𝐶) (𝑎2 +𝑏2 −𝑐 2 )+ (𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2 )
2𝑎𝑏 2𝑎𝑐

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑘 𝑘
sin(𝐵−𝐶) (𝑎2 +𝑏2 −𝑐 2 )− (𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏2 )
= 2𝑎
𝑘
2𝑎
𝑘
sin(𝐵+𝐶) (𝑎2 +𝑏2 −𝑐 2 )+ (𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2 )
2𝑎 2𝑎
𝑘
sin(𝐵−𝐶) [(𝑎2 +𝑏2 −𝑐 2 )−(𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏2 )]
2𝑎
= 𝑘
sin(𝐵+𝐶) [(𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 )+(𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏2 )]
2𝑎
sin(𝐵−𝐶) 𝑎2 +𝑏2 −𝑐 2 −𝑎2 −𝑐 2 +𝑏 2
= 𝑎2 +𝑏2 −𝑐 2 +𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏2
sin(𝐵+𝐶)
sin(𝐵−𝐶) 2𝑏 2 −2𝑐 2
=
sin(𝐵+𝐶) 2𝑎2
sin(𝐵−𝐶) 2(𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 )
sin(𝐵+𝐶)
= 2𝑎2
sin(𝐵−𝐶) 𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
∴ = ; Hence shown.
sin(𝐵+𝑐) 𝑎2
140. For any triangle ABC, show that:
𝑎 cos 𝐴 + 𝑏 cos 𝐵 + 𝑐 cos 𝐶 = 2𝑎 sin 𝐵 sin 𝐶.
Solution
Consider LHS.
From sine rule,
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
= sin B = sin C = 𝑘
sin A
𝑎
=𝑘
sin A
𝑎 = 𝑘 sin 𝐴 − − − −(i)
𝑏
=𝑘
sin B
𝑏 = 𝑘 sin 𝐵 − − − −(ii)
𝑐
=𝑘
sin C
𝑐 = 𝑘 sin 𝐶 − − − −(iii)
𝑎 cos 𝐴 + 𝑏 cos 𝐵 + 𝑐 cos 𝐶 = 𝑘 sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴 + 𝑘 sin 𝐵 cos 𝐵 + 𝑘 sin 𝐶 cos 𝐶
𝑎 cos 𝐴 + 𝑏 cos 𝐵 + 𝑐 cos 𝐶 = 𝑘(sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴 + sin 𝐵 cos 𝐵 + sin 𝐶 cos 𝐶)
Note: sin 2𝐴 = sin(𝐴 + 𝐴) = sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴 + cos 𝐴 sin 𝐴 = 2 sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴
sin 2𝐴 = 2 sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴
1
sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴 = 2 sin 2𝐴
Similarly
1
sin 𝐵 cos 𝐵 = 2 sin 2𝐵
1
sin 𝐶 cos 𝐶 = 2 sin 2𝐶
Now,
1 1 1
𝑎 cos 𝐴 + 𝑏 cos 𝐵 + 𝑐 cos 𝐶 = 𝑘 (2 sin 2𝐴 + 2 sin 2𝐵 + 2 sin 2𝐶)

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑘
𝑎 cos 𝐴 + 𝑏 cos 𝐵 + 𝑐 cos 𝐶 = (sin 2𝐴 + sin 2𝐵 + sin 2𝐶)
2
But sin 2𝐴 + sin 2𝐵 + sin 2𝐶 = 4 sin 𝐴 sin 𝐵 sin 𝐶. The proof is beyond this
level.
𝑘
𝑎 cos 𝐴 + 𝑏 cos 𝐵 + 𝑐 cos 𝐶 = 2 (4 sin 𝐴 sin 𝐵 sin 𝐶)
𝑎 cos 𝐴 + 𝑏 cos 𝐵 + 𝑐 cos 𝐶 = 2𝑘 sin 𝐴 sin 𝐵 sin 𝐶
𝑎 cos 𝐴 + 𝑏 cos 𝐵 + 𝑐 cos 𝐶 = 2(𝑘 sin 𝐴) sin 𝐵 sin 𝐶
𝑎 cos 𝐴 + 𝑏 cos 𝐵 + 𝑐 cos 𝐶 = 2(𝑎) sin 𝐵 sin 𝐶
∴ 𝑎 cos 𝐴 + 𝑏 cos 𝐵 + 𝑐 cos 𝐶 = 2𝑎 sin 𝐵 sin 𝐶; Hence shown.
141. The sides of a triangle are in A.P. and the largest and the least angles are
𝜃 and 𝜑, then prove that 4(1 − cos 𝜃)(1 − cos 𝜑) = cos 𝜃 + cos 𝜑.
Solution
Let a, b, c be the sides of a triangle such that a and c are the least and the
largest side of triangle ABC.
𝑏−𝑎 =𝑐−𝑏
𝑏+𝑏 =𝑎+𝑐
2𝑏 = 𝑎 + 𝑐 − − − −(i)
𝑎+𝑐
𝑏= − − − −(ii)
2
From cosine rule,
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos θ
2𝑎𝑏 cos θ = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝑎2 +𝑏2 −𝑐 2
cos θ = 2𝑎𝑏
𝑎2 −𝑐 2 𝑏2
cos θ = + 2𝑎𝑏
2𝑎𝑏
(𝑎−𝑐)(𝑎+𝑐) 𝑏
cos θ = + 2𝑎 − − − −(iii)
2𝑎𝑏
Substitute equation (i) into equation (iii).
(𝑎−𝑐)(𝑎+𝑐) 𝑏
cos θ = + 2𝑎
𝑎(𝑎+𝑐)
𝑎−𝑐 𝑏
cos θ = +
𝑎 2𝑎
2𝑎−2𝑐+𝑏
cos θ = − − − −(iv)
2𝑎
Substitute equation (ii) into equation (iv).
𝑎+𝑐
2𝑎−2𝑐+
2
cos θ = 2𝑎
2𝑎−2𝑐 𝑎+𝑐
+
1 2
cos θ = 2𝑎
4𝑎−4𝑐+𝑎+𝑐
cos θ = 4𝑎

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
5𝑎−3𝑐
cos θ = − − − −(v)
4𝑎
And
𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2
cos φ = 2𝑏𝑐
𝑏2 𝑐 2 −𝑎2
cos φ = 2𝑏𝑐 + 2𝑏𝑐
𝑏 𝑐 2 −𝑎2
cos φ = 2𝑐 + 2𝑏𝑐
𝑏 (𝑐−𝑎)(𝑐+𝑎)
cos φ = 2𝑐 + − − − −(vi)
2𝑏𝑐
Substitute equation (i) into equation (vi).
𝑏 (𝑐−𝑎)(𝑐+𝑎)
cos φ = 2𝑐 + 𝑐(𝑎+𝑐)
𝑏 (𝑐−𝑎)
cos φ = 2𝑐 + − − − −(vii)
𝑐
Substitute equation (ii) into equation (vii).
𝑎+𝑐
2 (𝑐−𝑎)
cos φ = +
2𝑐 𝑐
𝑎+𝑐 𝑐−𝑎
cos φ = +
4𝑐 𝑐
𝑎+𝑐+4𝑐−4𝑎
cos φ = 4𝑐
5𝑐−3𝑎
cos φ = − − − −(viii)
4𝑐
Now,
(5𝑎−3𝑐) (5𝑐−3𝑎)
4(1 − cos 𝜃)(1 − cos 𝜑) = 4 [1 − ] [1 − ]
4𝑎 4𝑐
1 (5𝑎−3𝑐) 1 (5𝑐−3𝑎)
4(1 − cos 𝜃)(1 − cos 𝜑) = 4 [1 − ] [1 − ]
4𝑎 4𝑐
4𝑎−5𝑎+3𝑐 4𝑐−5𝑐+3𝑎
4(1 − cos 𝜃)(1 − cos 𝜑) = 4 ( )( )
4𝑎 4𝑐
3𝑐−𝑎 3𝑎−𝑐
4(1 − cos 𝜃)(1 − cos 𝜑) = 4 ( )( )
4𝑎 4𝑐
4 3𝑐−𝑎 3𝑎−𝑐
4(1 − cos 𝜃)(1 − cos 𝜑) = 16 ( )( )
𝑎 𝑐
1 3𝑐−𝑎 3𝑎−𝑐
4(1 − cos 𝜃)(1 − cos 𝜑) = 4 ( )( )
𝑎 𝑐
1 9𝑎𝑐−3𝑐 2 −3𝑎2 +𝑎𝑐
4(1 − cos 𝜃)(1 − cos 𝜑) = 4 ( )
𝑎𝑐
1 10𝑎𝑐−3𝑐 2 −3𝑎2
4(1 − cos 𝜃)(1 − cos 𝜑) = 4 ( )
𝑎𝑐
1 5𝑎𝑐−3𝑐 2 +5𝑎𝑐−3𝑎2
4(1 − cos 𝜃)(1 − cos 𝜑) = 4 ( )
𝑎𝑐
1 𝑐(5𝑎−3𝑐)+𝑎(5𝑐−3𝑎)
4(1 − cos 𝜃)(1 − cos 𝜑) = 4 [ ]
𝑎𝑐
1 𝑐(5𝑎−3𝑐)+𝑎(5𝑐−3𝑎)
4(1 − cos 𝜃)(1 − cos 𝜑) = [ ]
4 𝑎𝑐

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
1 𝑐(5𝑎−3𝑐) 𝑎(5𝑐−3𝑎)
4(1 − cos 𝜃)(1 − cos 𝜑) = [ + ]
4 𝑎𝑐 𝑎𝑐
1 (5𝑎−3𝑐) (5𝑐−3𝑎)
4(1 − cos 𝜃)(1 − cos 𝜑) = 4 [ + ]
𝑎 𝑐
(5𝑎−3𝑐) (5𝑐−3𝑎)
4(1 − cos 𝜃)(1 − cos 𝜑) = +
4𝑎 4𝑐
∴ 4(1 − cos 𝜃)(1 − cos 𝜑) = cos 𝜃 + cos 𝜑; Hence proved.
142. Consider ∆ABC given below.
A

74 cm

82 cm
B
(a) Use the cosine rule to find the size of each of the angles of the triangle
given above. Give the answers to the nearest degree.
(b) Comment on the answers.
Solution
(a) Let A, B, and C represent the angles in the ∆ABC.
By using the cosine rule;
𝑎2 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos A
𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2
cos A = 2𝑏𝑐
(74 cm)2 +(98 cm)2 −(82 cm)2
cos A = 2(74 cm)(98 cm)
(5,476+9,604−6,724) cm2
cos A = 14,504 cm2
8,356 cm2
cos A = 14,504 cm2
cos A = 0.5761
A = cos −1 (0.5761)
A = 55°
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B
2𝑎𝑐 cos B = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2
cos B = 2𝑎𝑐
(82 cm)2 +(98 cm)2 −(74 cm)2
cos B = 2(82 cm)(98 cm)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(6,724+9,604−5,476) cm2
cos B =
16,072 cm2
10,852 cm2
cos B = 16,072 cm2
cos B = 0.6752
B = cos −1(0.6752)
B = 48°
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C
2𝑎𝑏 cos C = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
cos C = 2𝑎𝑏
(82 cm)2 +(74 cm)2 −(98 cm)2
cos C = 2(82 cm)(74 cm)
(6,724+5,476−9,604) cm2
cos C = 12,136 cm2
2,596 cm2
cos C = 12,136 cm2
cos C = 0.2139
𝐶 = cos −1(0.2139)
C = 78°
∴ To the nearest degree the angles are 55° , 48° , and 78° .
(b) The angles add to more than 180° because of rounding.
143. Consider the triangles given below.
A

5.25 m R 16.3 cm
3.61 m
11.1 cm P

18.9 cm
B 4.93 m C Q
(a) Is it true that the largest angle of a triangle is opposite the largest side?
(b) What statement can you make about the smallest angle?
(c) Find the smallest angle of the triangle ABC.
(d) Find the largest angle of the triangle PQR.
Solution
(a) Yes
(b) The smallest angle is opposite the smallest side.
(c) ∠C is the mallest angle in triangle ABC.
By using the cosine rule;

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C
2𝑎𝑏 cos C = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
cos C = 2𝑎𝑏
(4.93 m)2 +(5.25 m)2 −(3.61 m)2
cos C = 2(4.93 m)(5.25 m)
(24.3049+27.5625−13.0321) m2
cos C = 51.765 m2
38.8353 m2
cos C = 51.765 m2
cos C = 0.7502
C = cos−1(0.7502)
∴ The smallest angle of the triangle ABC is 41° (to the nearest degree).
(d) ∠R is the largest angle in triangle PQR.
By using the cosine rule;
𝑟 2 = 𝑝2 + 𝑞 2 − 2𝑝𝑞 cos R
2𝑝𝑞 cos R = 𝑝2 + 𝑞 2 − 𝑟 2
𝑝2 +𝑞2 −𝑟 2
cos R = 2𝑝𝑞
(11.1 cm)2 +(16.3 cm)2 −(18.9 cm)2
cos R = 2(11.1 cm)(16.3 cm)
(123.21+265.69−357.21) cm2
cos R = 361.86 cm2
31.69 cm2
cos R = 361.86 cm2
cos R = 0.0876
R = cos −1(0.0876)
∴ The largest angle of the triangle PQR is 85° (to the nearest degree).
144. Two islands A and B are 5.9 km and 9.2 km respectively from a point T of
a straight coast line TX as shown in the figure below.
T
X

5.9 km

A
9.2 km

B
̂A = 29° and XT
If XT ̂ B = 46° , find the distance between the islands.
Solution

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Draw a line joining point X and island A. Also, draw a line joining two islands
A and B then, consider the two figures below.

T X T
°
29
46° 17°
5.9 km
5.9km

9.2 km A 9.2 km A

B B
Figure 1 Figure 2
In figure 2 above, t is the distance two islands A and B.
By using the cosine rule,
𝑡 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos T
𝑡 2 = 9.22 + 5.92 − 2(9.2)(5.9) cos 17°
𝑡 2 = 84.64 + 34.81 − 108.56(0.9563)
𝑡 2 = 119.45 − 103.8
𝑡 2 = 15.65
√𝑡 2 = √15.65
𝑡 = 3.95
∴ The distance between the islands is 3.95 km.
145. Consider the triangle ABC given below.
Find: A
(a) The length of AB.
C 53°
(b) Angle A
(c) Angle B.

B
Solution
(a) By using the cosine rule;
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C
𝑐 2 = (67 mm)2 + (77 mm)2 − 2(67 mm)(77 mm) cos 53°
𝑐 2 = [4,489 + 5,929 − 10,318(0.6018)] mm2
𝑐 2 = (4,489 + 5,929 − 6,209.3724) mm2
𝑐 2 = 4,208.6276 mm2

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
√𝑐 2 = √4,208.6276 mm2
𝑐 = 64.87 mm
∴ The length of AB is 64.87 mm.
(b) From sine rule,
𝑎 𝑐
=
sin A sin C
67 mm 64.87 mm
=
sin A sin 53°
sin A × 64.87 mm = 67 mm × sin 53°
67 mm×sin 53°
sin A = 64.87 mm
67 mm×0.7986
sin A = 64.87 mm
sin A = 0.8248
A = sin−1(0.8248)
∴ Angle A = 56° (to the nearest degree)
(c) ∠A + ∠B + ∠C = 180° − − − −(sum of angles in a triangle)
56° + ∠B + 53° = 180°
∠B = 180° − 109°
∴ Angle B = 71°
146. The pitcher’s mound on a softball field is 43 feet from home plate. The
distance between the bases is 60 feet, as shown in figure below (The pitcher’s
mound is not halfway between home plate and second base).

How far is the pitcher’s mound from first base?

Solution
°
In triangle HPF, 𝐻 = 45 (line segment HP bisects the right angle at H),
𝑓 = 43 ft, and 𝑝 = 60 ft.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
By using the cosine rule,
ℎ2 = 𝑓 2 + 𝑝2 − 2𝑓𝑝 cos 𝐻
ℎ2 = 432 + 602 − 2(43)(60) cos 45°
ℎ2 = 1849 + 3600 − 5160(0.7071)
ℎ2 = 1849 + 3600 − 3648.636
ℎ2 = 1800.364
√ℎ2 = √1800.364
ℎ = 42.43
∴ The distance from the pitcher’s mound to first base is 42.43 ft.
147. Two trees, A and B are on the opposite sides of a river. From a point C in
the river the distance of the trees A and B are 250 m and 300 m respectively.
If the angle C is 45° , find the distance between the trees (use √2 = 1.414).
Solution
Consider the figure below.
---------------------
---------------------
---------------------

---------------------
---------------------
---------------------
---------------------
---------------------
---------------------

---------------------
---------------------
---------------------
---------------------

---------------------
---------------------
---------------------
---------------------
---------------------
---------------------
---------------------
---------------------
---------------------
---------------------
---------------------
---------------------
------
-----
--
--
--

C
45°
------------
------------
------------
------------

A B

By using the cosine rule,

𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C
𝑐 2 = 3002 + 2502 − 2(300)(250) cos 45°

√2
𝑐 2 = 90,000 + 62,500 − 150,000 ( 2 )
𝑐2 = 152,500 − 75,000(√2)
𝑐2 = 152,500 − 75,000(1.414)
𝑐2 = 152,500 − 106,050
𝑐2 = 46,450
√𝑐 2 = √46,450

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑐 = 215.5
∴ The distance between the trees is 215.5 m.
148. A certain Airport has two runways with lengths 1,525 metres and 915
metres. The beginnings of the runways meet at an angle of 37° . The other ends
of the runways are called the thresholds. How far apart are the thresholds of
the runways?
Solution
Let A, C represent the thresholds and B represents the meeting point of the
runways, then consider the figure below.
B
A 37°

C
By using the cosine rule,
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B
𝑏 2 = (915 m)2 + (1,525 m)2 − 2(915 m)(1,525 m) cos 37°
𝑏 2 = [837,225 + 2,325,625 − 2,790,750(0.7986)] m2
𝑏 2 = (3,162,850 − 2,228,692.95) m2
𝑏 2 = 934,157.05 m2
√𝑏 2 = √934,157.05 m2
𝑏 = 966.5 m
∴ The thresholds of the runways are 966.5 metres apart.
149. Two ships leave a port at the same time. One goes 24 km/h in the direction
N45° E and other travels 32 km/h in the direction S75° E. Find the distance
between the ships at the end of 3 hours.
Solution
First, find the distance travelled by each ship at the end of 3 hours.
Distance
Speed = Time
Distance
24 km/h = 3h
Ditance = 24 km/h × 3 h = 72 km
Also
Distance
32 km/h = 3h
Ditance = 32 km/h × 3 h = 96 km

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Let A represents the position where the port is. Also, let B and C represent the
positions of two ships at the end of 3 hours, then consider the figure below.
N

45°
W 60° E
A
75°

S
By using the cosine rule,
𝑎2 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos A
𝑎2 = 962 + 722 − 2(96)(72) cos 60°
1
𝑎2 = 962 + 722 − 2(96)(72) (2)
𝑎2 = 9,216 + 5,184 − 6,912
𝑎2 = 7,488
√𝑎2 = √7,488
𝑎 = 86.5 km
∴ The distance between the ships at the end of 3 hours is 86.5 km.
150. A helicopter base is 20 km due west of a hospital H. From B, a helicopter
flies 8.4 km on a bearing of 072° to pick up an injured person. How far is this
injured person from the hospital?
Solution
Let I be the position of the injured person, then consider the figure below.
North
I

72°
B H
20 km
∠IBH = 90° − 72° = 18°
Using the cosine rule,

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑏2 = ℎ2 + 𝑖 2 − 2ℎ𝑖 cos B
𝑏2 = (8.4 km)2 + (20 km)2 − 2(8.4 km)(20 km) cos 18°
𝑏2 = [70.56 + 400 − 336(0.9511)] km2
𝑏2 = (70.56 + 400 − 319.5696) km2
𝑏2 = 150.9904 km2
√𝑏 2 = √150.9904 km2
𝑏 = 12.3 km (correct to 1 decimal place)
∴ The injured person is 12.3 km from the hospital.
151. Two goal posts are 8 m apart. A footballer is at 34 m from one post and 38
m from the other. Within what angle must he kick the ball if he is to score a
goal?
Solution
Let A, B represent the two goal posts and C represents the position of the
footballer, then consider the figure below.
A 8m B

38 m 34 m

C
Using the cosine rule,
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C
2𝑎𝑏 cos C = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
cos C = 2𝑎𝑏
(34 m)2 +(38 m)2 −(8 m)2
cos C = 2(34 m)(38 m)
(1,156+1,444−64) m2
cos C = 2,584 m2
2,536 m2
cos C = 2,584 m2
cos C = 0.9814
C = cos−1(0.9814)
C = 11°
∴ The required angle is 11° .

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Obtuse angles
The sine and cosine rules also work for obtuse – angled triangles. If 𝜃 is an
obtuse angle, then,
sin 𝜃 = sin(180° − 𝜃)
cos 𝜃 = − cos(180° − 𝜃)
Note: There is no ambiguity in using the cosine formula. If the angle is obtuse,
the cosine will be negative.
152. In ∆PQR, PQ ̅̅̅̅ = 25 cm, QR
̅̅̅̅ = 20 cm and RP
̅̅̅̅ = 36 cm. Find PQ ̂ R.
Solution
Consider the figure below.
Q

25 cm
20 cm

P 36 cm R
From,
𝑞 2 = 𝑝2 + 𝑟 2 − 2𝑝𝑟 cos Q
2𝑝𝑟 cos Q = 𝑝2 + 𝑟 2 − 𝑞 2
𝑝2 +𝑟 2 −𝑞2
cos Q = 2𝑝𝑟
202 +252 −362
cos Q = 2(20)(25)
400+625−1,296
cos Q = 1,000
−271
cos Q = 1,000
cos Q = −0.2710
− cos(180° − 𝑄) = −0.2710
cos(180° − 𝑄) = 0.2710
180° − 𝑄 = cos−1 (0.2710)
180° − 𝑄 = 74.3°
𝑄 = 105.7°
∴ PQ̂ R = 105.7°
153. In these triangles, you are given sides and an angle. Find the unknown side.
(a) ̅̅̅̅
AB = 22 cm, ̅̅̅̅
BC = 25 cm, AB̂ C = 110° . Find ̅̅̅̅
AC.
̅̅̅̅ = 14 m, PR
(b) PQ ̅̅̅̅ = 15 m, QP
̂R = 123 . Find QR
° ̅̅̅̅.
Solution

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(a) Consider the figure below.
B

110°
22 cm 25 cm

A C
From,
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B
𝑏 2 = 252 + 222 − 2(25)(22) cos 110°
𝑏 2 = 625 + 484 − 1,100[− cos(180° − 110° )]
𝑏 2 = 1,109 − 1,100(− cos 70° )
𝑏 2 = 1,109 − 1,100(−0.3420)
𝑏 2 = 1,109 + 376.2
𝑏 2 = 1,485.2
√𝑏 2 = √1,485.2
𝑏 = 38.5
̅̅̅̅ = 38.5 cm
∴ AC
(b) Consider the figure below.
P

123°
14 m 15 cm

Q R
From,
𝑝2 = 𝑞 2 + 𝑟 2 − 2(𝑞)(𝑟) cos B
𝑝2 = 152 + 142 − 2(15)(14) cos 123°
𝑝2 = 225 + 196 − 420[− cos(180° − 123° )]
𝑝2 = 421 − 420(− cos 57° )
𝑝2 = 421 − 420(−0.5446)
𝑝2 = 421 + 228.732
𝑝2 = 649.732
√𝑝2 = √649.732
𝑝 = 25.5

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
∴ ̅̅̅̅
QR = 25.5 m
154. The sides of a triangle are 𝑎 = 4 cm, 𝑏 = 6 cm and 𝑐 = 8 cm, show that:
8 cos A + 16 cos B + 4 cos C = 17.
Solution
Consider LHS.
𝑎2 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos A
2𝑏𝑐 cos A = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2
cos A = − − − −(i)
2𝑏𝑐
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B
2

2𝑎𝑐 cos B = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2
cos B = − − − −(ii)
2𝑎𝑐
2 2 2
𝑐 = 𝑎 + 𝑏 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C
2𝑎𝑏 cos C = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
cos C = − − − −(iii)
2𝑎𝑏
𝑏2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑎 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏2 𝑎 2 +𝑏2 −𝑐 2
8 cos A + 16 cos B + 4 cos C = 8 ( )+ 16 ( )+ 4( )
2𝑏𝑐 2𝑎𝑐 2𝑎𝑏
62 +82 −42 42 +82 −62 42 +62 −82
8 cos A + 16 cos B + 4 cos C = 8 [ ] + 16 [ ]+ 4[ ]
2(6)(8) 2(4)(8) 2(4)(6)
36+64−16 16+64−36 16+36−64
8 cos A + 16 cos B + 4 cos C = 8 ( 96
)+ 16 ( 64
)+ 4( 48
)
84 44 −12
8 cos A + 16 cos B + 4 cos C = 8 (96) + 16 (64) + 4 ( 48 )
7 11 −1
8 cos A + 16 cos B + 4 cos C = 8 (8) + 16 (16) + 4 ( 4 )
8 cos A + 16 cos B + 4 cos C = 7 + 11 − 1
∴ 8 cos A + 16 cos B + 4 cos C = 17; Hence shown.
155. (a) Describe how the Law of Cosines can be used to solve the ambiguous
case of the oblique triangle ABC, where 𝑎 = 12 feet, 𝑏 = 30 feet, and
𝐴 = 20° .
(b) Is the result the same as when the Law of Sines is used to solve the triangle?
(c) Describe the advantages and the disadvantages of each method.
Answers
(a) To solve the triangle using the Law of Cosines, substitute values into
𝑎2 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos 𝐴. Simplify the equation so that you have a
quadratic equation in terms of c. Then, find the two values of c, and find
the two triangles that model the given information.
(b) Using the Law of Sines will give the same result as using the Law of
Cosines.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(c) An advantage of using the Law of Cosines is that it is easier to choose the
correct value to avoid the ambiguous case, but its disadvantage is that there
are more computations. The opposite is true for the Law of Sines.
Note:
 In problems where either cosine or sine rules are applicable, the sine rule
is preferred since it is easier and quicker to use.
 The cosine rule is used in cases where the sine rule is not possible.
156. What is compound angles?
Answer
Compound angles is a combination of two angles that can be expressed by
addition or subtraction sign, for example sin 75° = sin(30° + 45° ).
The cosine of the sum and difference of any two angles
157. Use the fact that cos(−𝐵) = cos 𝐵 and sin(−𝐵) = − sin 𝐵 to derive the
relation for cos(𝐴 + 𝐵).
Solution
cos(𝐴 + 𝐵) = cos[𝐴 − (−𝐵)]
cos(𝐴 + 𝐵) = cos 𝐴 cos(−𝐵) + sin 𝐴 sin(−𝐵)
cos(𝐴 + 𝐵) = cos 𝐴 cos 𝐵 − sin 𝐴 sin 𝐵
Therefore,
𝐜𝐨𝐬(𝐀 − 𝐁) = 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝐀 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝐁 + 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝐀 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝐁
𝐜𝐨𝐬(𝐀 + 𝐁) = 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝐀 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝐁 − 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝐀 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝐁
158. Verify that:
(a) cos(90° − 60° ) = cos 90° cos 60° + sin 90° sin 60°
(b) cos(30° + 60° ) = cos 30° cos 60° − sin 30° sin 60°
Solution
(a) cos(90 − 60 = cos 90 cos 60° + sin 90° sin 60°
° °) °

LHS:
cos(90° − 60° ) = cos 30°
From,

√3
cos(90° − 60° ) = 2
RHS:

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
1 √3 √3
cos 90° cos 60° + sin 90° sin 60° = (0) ( ) + (1) ( ) =
2 2 2
∴ cos(90° − 60° ) = cos 90° cos 60° + sin 90° sin 60 ; Hence verified.
°

(b) cos(30° + 60° ) = cos 30° cos 60° − sin 30° sin 60°
LHS:
cos(30° + 60° ) = cos 90° = 0
RHS:
√3 1 1 √3
cos 30° cos 60° − sin 30° sin 60° = ( 2 ) (2) − (2) ( 2 ) = 0
∴ cos(30° + 60° ) = cos 30° cos 60° − sin 30° sin 60° ; Hence verified.
159. Without the use of tables, find the exact value of cos 75° .
Solution
° ° °)
cos 75 = cos(30 + 45
cos 75° = cos 30° cos 45° − sin 30° sin 45°
From,

√3 √2 1 √2
cos 75° = ( 2 ) ( 2 ) − (2) ( 2 )
(√2)(√3) √2
cos 75° = −
4 4
√2
∴ cos 75° = (√3 − 1)
4
√6+√2
160. Without using a calculator, show that cos 15° = .
4
Solution
√6+√2
Required to show that cos 15° =
4
Consider LHS
cos 15° = cos(45° − 30° )
cos 15° = cos 45° cos 30° + sin 45° sin 30°
From,

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
√2 √3 √2 1
cos 15° = ( ) ( ) + ( ) ( )
2 2 2 2
° √2 √3 1
cos 15 = ( 2 ) ( 2 + 2)
√2 √3+1
cos 15° = ( 2 )( 2 )
√2 √2 √3+1
cos 15° = ( 2 )( )( 2 )
√2
2 √3+1
cos 15° = (2√2) ( )
2
1 √3+1
cos 15° = ( ) ( )
√2 2
1 √2 √3+1
cos 15° = [( ) ( )] ( )
√2 √2 2
√2 √3+1
cos 15° = ( 2 )
2

√6+√2
∴ cos 15° = ; Hence shown.
4
Alternatively
Consider LHS
cos 15° = cos(60° − 45° )
cos 15° = cos 60° cos 45° + sin 60° sin 45°
From,
1 √2 √3 √2
cos 15° = (2) ( 2 ) + ( 2 ) ( 2 )
√2 √6
cos 15° = + 4
4
√6+√2
∴ cos 15° = 4 ; Hence shown.
161. Without using mathematical table or calculator, evaluate
cos 80° cos 20° + sin 80° sin 20°
Solution
cos 80 cos 20 + sin 80 sin 20 = cos(80° − 20° )
° ° ° °

cos 80° cos 20° + sin 80° sin 20° = cos 60°
1
∴ cos 80° cos 20° + sin 80° sin 20° = 2
162. Without using a calculator or tables, find the values of the following:
(a) cos(120° − 45° )
(b) cos 285°

Solution

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(a) cos(120° − 45° ) = cos 120° cos 45° + sin 120° sin 45°
= cos(60° + 60° ) cos 45° + sin(60° + 60° ) sin 45°
= [cos(60° + 60° )] cos 45° + [sin(60° + 60° )] sin 45°
= (cos 60° cos 60° − sin 60° sin 60° ) cos 45° + (sin 60° cos 60° +
cos 60° sin 60° ) sin 45°
From,

1 1 √3
√2 √3 √3 1 1 √3 √2
= [(2) (2) − ( 2 ) ( 2 )] + [( 2 ) (2) + (2) ( 2 )]
2 2
1 3 √2 √3 √3 √2
= (4 − 4) 2 + ( 4 + 4 ) 2
1 √2 2√3 √2
= (− 2) 2 + ( 4 ) 2
1 √2 √3 √2
= (− 2) 2 + ( 2 ) 2
√2 (√3)(√2)
=− +
4 4
(√3)(√2) √2
= −
4 4
√2
= (√3 − 1)
4
1
∴ cos(120° − 45° ) = 4 √2(√3 − 1)
Alternatively
cos(120° − 45° ) = cos 120° cos 45° + sin 120° sin 45°
cos(30° + 90° ) cos 45° + sin(30° + 90° ) sin 45°
= [cos(30° + 90° )] cos 45° + [sin(30° + 90° )] sin 45°
= (cos 30° cos 90° − sin 30° sin 90° ) cos 45° + (sin 30° cos 90° +
cos 30° sin 90° ) sin 45°
√3 1 √2 1 √3 √2
= [( 2 ) (0) − (2) (1)] + [(2) (0) + ( 2 ) (1)]
2 2
1 √2 √3 √2
= (0 − 2) + (0 + )2
2 2
√2 (√3)(√2)
= − 4 + 4
(√3)(√2) √2
= − 4
4

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
√2
= (√3 − 1)
4
1
∴ cos(120° − 45° ) = 4 √2(√3 − 1)
(b) cos 285° = cos(105° + 180° )
= cos 105° cos 180° − sin 105° sin 180°
= cos(45° + 60° ) cos(90° + 90° ) − sin(45° + 60° ) sin(90° + 90° )
= [cos(45° + 60° )][cos(90° + 90° )] − [sin(45° + 60° )][sin(90° + 90° )]
= [cos 45° cos 60° − sin 45° sin 60° ][cos 90° cos 90° − sin 90° sin 90° ] −
[sin 45° cos 60° + cos 45° sin 60° ][sin 90° cos 90° + cos 90° sin 90° ]
From,

√2 1 √2 √3 √2 1
= [( 2 ) (2) − ( 2 ) ( 2 )] [(0)(0) − (1)(1)] − [( 2 ) (2) +
√2 √3
( 2 ) ( 2 )] [(1)(0) + (0)(1)]
√2 (√2)(√3) √2 (√2)(√3)
=[4 − ] (0 − 1) − [ 4 + ] (0 + 0)
4 4
√2 (√2)(√3) √2 (√2)(√3)
=[4 − ] (−1) − [ 4 + ] (0)
4 4
√2 (√2)(√3)
=− +
4 4
(√2)(√3) √2
= −
4 4
√2
= (√3 − 1)
4
1
∴ cos 285° = 4 √2(√3 − 1)
√2
163. Verify that cos 45° cos 60° − sin 45° sin 60° = (1 − √3).
4
Solution
Consider LHS
From,

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
√2 1 √2 √3
cos 45° cos 60° − sin 45° sin 60° = ( ) ( ) − ( ) ( )
2 2 2 2
√2 (√2)(√3)
cos 45° cos 60° − sin 45° sin 60° = −
4 4
√2
cos 45° cos 60° − sin 45° sin 60° = 4 (1 − √3)
√2
∴ cos 45° cos 60° − sin 45° sin 60° = 4 (1 − √3); Hence verified.
3
164. If cos(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 5 and tan 𝐴 tan 𝐵 = 2, find:
(a) cos 𝐴 cos 𝐵 (b) sin 𝐴 sin 𝐵
Solution
3
(a) cos(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 5
3
cos A cos B + sin A sin B = 5
sin A sin B 3
cos A cos B (1 + cos A cos B) = 5
3
cos A cos B (1 + tan 𝐴 tan 𝐵) = 5
3
cos A cos B (1 + 2) = 5
3
3 cos A cos B = 5
1
∴ cos A cos B = 5
3
(b) cos A cos B + sin A sin B = 5
3
sin A sin B = 5 − cos A cos B
3 1
cos A cos B = 5 − 5
2
∴ cos A cos B = 5
1 13
165. If cos 𝑃 = 7 and cos 𝑄 = 14, when P and Q both are acute angles. Find
the value of 𝑃 − 𝑄.
Solution
cos(𝑃 − 𝑄) = cos P cos Q + sin P sin Q
1 13
cos(𝑃 − 𝑄) = (7) (14) + sin P sin Q
13
cos(𝑃 − 𝑄) = 98 + sin P sin Q
From sin2 θ + cos 2 θ = 1
sin2 P + cos 2 P = 1
sin2 P = 1 − cos2 P

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
1 2
sin2 P = 1 − (7)
1
sin2 P = 1 − 49
48
sin2 P = 49
48
√sin2 P = √49
4√3
sin P = 7
sin Q + cos2 Q = 1
2

sin2 Q = 1 − cos2 Q
13 2
sin2 Q = 1 − (14)
169
sin2 Q = 1 − 196
27
sin2 Q = 196
27
√sin2 Q = √
196
3√3
sin Q = 14
Now,
13 4√3 3√3
cos(𝑃 − 𝑄) = 98 + ( ) ( 14 )
7
13 36
cos(𝑃 − 𝑄) = 98 + 98
49
cos(𝑃 − 𝑄) = 98
1
cos(𝑃 − 𝑄) = 2
1
𝑃 − 𝑄 = cos −1 (2)
∴ 𝑃 − 𝑄 = 60°
166. Show that cos 2𝜃 = 1 − 2 sin2 𝜃.
Solution
Conider LHS.
cos 2𝜃 = cos(𝜃 + 𝜃)
cos 2𝜃 = cos θ cos θ − sin θ sin θ
cos 2𝜃 = cos 2 𝜃 − sin2 𝜃
cos 2𝜃 = 1 − sin2 𝜃 − sin2 𝜃
∴ cos 2𝜃 = 1 − 2 sin2 𝜃; Hence shown.
2𝜋 4𝜋
167. If 𝑥 cos 𝜃 = 𝑦 cos (𝜃 + ) = 𝑧 cos (𝜃 + ), then find the value of
3 3

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑥𝑦 + 𝑦𝑧 + 𝑧𝑥.
Solution
1 1 1
Note: 𝑥𝑦 + 𝑦𝑧 + 𝑧𝑥 = 𝑥𝑦𝑧 (𝑥 + 𝑦 + 𝑧)
2𝜋 4𝜋
Let 𝑥 cos 𝜃 = 𝑦 cos (𝜃 + ) = 𝑧 cos (𝜃 + )=𝑘
3 3
𝑥 cos 𝜃 = 𝑘
𝑘
𝑥 = cos 𝜃
1 cos 𝜃
= − − − −(i)
𝑥 𝑘
2𝜋
𝑦 cos (𝜃 + )=𝑘
3
𝑘
𝑦= 2𝜋
cos(𝜃+ )
3
2𝜋
1 cos(𝜃+ )
3
= − − − −(ii)
𝑦 𝑘
4𝜋
𝑧 cos (𝜃 + )=𝑘
3
𝑘
𝑧= 4𝜋
cos(𝜃+ )
3
4𝜋
1 cos(𝜃+ )
3
= − − − −(iii)
𝑧 𝑘
1 1 1
Substitute equations (i), (ii), and (iii) into 𝑥𝑦 + 𝑦𝑧 + 𝑧𝑥 = 𝑥𝑦𝑧 (𝑥 + 𝑦 + 𝑧).
2𝜋 4𝜋
cos 𝜃 cos(𝜃+ ) cos(𝜃+ )
3 3
𝑥𝑦 + 𝑦𝑧 + 𝑧𝑥 = 𝑥𝑦𝑧 [ + + ]
𝑘 𝑘 𝑘

1 2𝜋 4𝜋
𝑥𝑦 + 𝑦𝑧 + 𝑧𝑥 = 𝑥𝑦𝑧 [𝑘 [cos 𝜃 + cos (𝜃 + ) + cos (𝜃 + )]]
3 3
1 2π 2𝜋 4𝜋 4𝜋
= 𝑥𝑦𝑧 [𝑘 [cos 𝜃 + cos 𝜃 cos − sin 𝜃 sin + cos 𝜃 cos − sin θ sin ]]
3 3 3 3
Note: 𝜋 rad ≡ 180°
2π 2
= 3 × 180° = 120°
3
4𝜋 4
= 3 × 180° = 240°
3

So

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
2π 1
cos = cos 120° = − cos(180° − 120° ) = − cos 60° = −
3 2
2𝜋 √3
sin = sin 120° = sin(180° − 120° ) = sin 60° =
3 2
4𝜋 1
cos = cos 240° = − cos(240° − 180° ) = − cos 60 = − 2
°
3
4𝜋 √3
sin = sin 240° = − sin(240° − 180° ) = − sin 60° = −
3 2
1 1 √3 1 √3
= 𝑥𝑦𝑧 [𝑘 [cos 𝜃 + cos 𝜃 (− 2) − sin 𝜃 ( 2 ) + cos 𝜃 (− 2) − sin θ (− )]]
2

1 1 √3 1 √3
= 𝑥𝑦𝑧 [𝑘 (cos 𝜃 − 2 cos 𝜃 − sin 𝜃 − 2 cos 𝜃 +
sin θ)]
2 2
1 1 1 √3 √3
= 𝑥𝑦𝑧 [𝑘 (cos 𝜃 − 2 cos 𝜃 − 2 cos 𝜃 + 2 sin θ − 2 sin 𝜃)]
1 √3 √3
𝑥𝑦 + 𝑦𝑧 + 𝑧𝑥 = 𝑥𝑦𝑧 [𝑘 (cos 𝜃 − cos 𝜃 + 2 sin θ − 2 sin 𝜃)]
1
𝑥𝑦 + 𝑦𝑧 + 𝑧𝑥 = 𝑥𝑦𝑧 [𝑘 (0)]
𝑥𝑦 + 𝑦𝑧 + 𝑧𝑥 = 𝑥𝑦𝑧(0)
∴ 𝑥𝑦 + 𝑦𝑧 + 𝑧𝑥 = 0
168. In a triangle ABC, a, c and A are given and 𝑏1 , 𝑏2 are two values, if the
9𝑎2 −𝑐 2
third side b such that 𝑏2 = 2𝑏1 then show that sin 𝐴 = √ .
8𝑐 2
Solution
From cosine rule,
𝑎2 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos A
𝑏 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos A + (𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ) = 0
𝑏 2 − (2𝑐 cos A)𝑏 + (𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 ) = 0
It is given that 𝑏1 and 𝑏2 are roots of this equation.
𝑏1 + 𝑏2 = −2𝑐 cos A − − − −(i)
𝑏1 𝑏2 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 − − − −(ii)
𝑏2 = 2𝑏1 − − − −(iii)
Substititute equation (iii) into equation (i) above.
𝑏1 + 2𝑏1 = −2𝑐 cos A
3𝑏1 = −2𝑐 cos A
2
𝑏1 = − 3 𝑐 cos A − − − −(iv)
Again, substititute equation (iii) into equation (ii).
𝑏1 (2𝑏1 ) = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
2𝑏1 2 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 − − − −(v)
Now, substititute equation (iv) into equation (v).

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
2 2
2 (− 3 𝑐 cos A) = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
4
2 (9 𝑐 2 cos2 𝐴) = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
8 2
𝑐 cos2 𝐴 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
9
8 2
9 (9 𝑐 cos 𝐴) = 9(𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 )
2

8𝑐 2 cos2 𝐴 = 9𝑐 2 − 9𝑎2
8𝑐 2 (1 − sin2 𝐴) = 9𝑐 2 − 9𝑎2
8𝑐 2 − 8𝑐 2 sin2 𝐴 = 9𝑐 2 − 9𝑎2
−8𝑐 2 sin2 𝐴 = 9𝑐 2 − 8𝑐 2 − 9𝑎2
−8𝑐 2 sin2 𝐴 = 𝑐 2 − 9𝑎2
−8𝑐 2 sin2 𝐴 = −(−𝑐 2 + 9𝑎2 )
8𝑐 2 sin2 𝐴 = 9𝑎2 − 𝑐 2
9𝑎2 −𝑐 2
sin2 𝐴 = 8𝑐 2
9𝑎2 −𝑐 2
√sin2 𝐴 = √ 8𝑐 2

9𝑎2 −𝑐 2
∴ sin 𝐴 = √ ; Hence shown.
8𝑐 2

The sine of the sum and difference of any two angles

1st case: The formula for the sine of the sum of any two angles A and B.
If C is any acute angle, then
cos(90° − 𝐶) = cos 90° cos 𝐶 + sin 90° sin 𝐶
cos(90° − 𝐶) = 0 × cos 𝐶 + 1 × sin 𝐶
cos(90° − 𝐶) = 0 + sin 𝐶
Hence, cos(90° − 𝐶) = sin 𝐶
Let C be (90° − 𝐴), then 90° − 𝐶 = 90° − (90° − 𝐴) = 𝐴
This means that cos(90° − 𝐶) = sin 𝐶 and cos 𝐴 = sin(90° − 𝐴)
Now, let C be another name for (𝐴 + 𝐵). The formula for the sine of the sum
of the two angles A and B can be found as f ollows:
sin(𝐴 + 𝐵) = cos[90° − (𝐴 + 𝐵)]
sin(𝐴 + 𝐵) = cos[(90° − 𝐴) − 𝐵]
sin(𝐴 + 𝐵) = cos(90° − 𝐴) cos 𝐵 + sin(90° − 𝐴) sin 𝐵
Hence, sin(𝐴 + 𝐵) = sin 𝐴 cos 𝐵 + cos 𝐴 sin 𝐵

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
2nd case: The formula for the sine of the difference of any two angles A and
B.
The formula for the sine of the difference of any two angles A and B can also
be found by considering sin[𝐴 + (−𝐵)] using the derived formula for the sum.
sin[𝐴 + (−𝐵)] = sin 𝐴 cos(−𝐵) + cos 𝐴 sin(−𝐵)
Note that cos(−𝐵) = cos 𝐵 and sin(−𝐵) = − sin 𝐵.
Hence, sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = sin 𝐴 cos 𝐵 − cos 𝐴 sin 𝐵
The relations for sin(𝐴 + 𝐵) and sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) for angles A and B will also
be the same for function of numbers.
Therefore,
𝐬𝐢𝐧(𝑨 + 𝑩) = 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝑨 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝑩 + 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝑨 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝑩 and
𝐬𝐢𝐧(𝑨 − 𝑩) = 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝑨 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝑩 − 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝑨 𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝑩
169. Verify that:
(a) sin(30° + 60° ) = sin 30° cos 60° + cos 30° sin 60°
(b) sin(180° + 45° ) = sin 180° cos 45° + cos 180° sin 45°
Solution
(a) LHS:
sin(30° + 60° ) = sin 90°
sin(30° + 60° ) = 1
RHS:
From,

1 1 √3 √3
sin 30° cos 60° + cos 30° sin 60° = (2) (2) + ( 2 ) ( 2 )
1 3
sin 30° cos 60° + cos 30° sin 60° = 4 + 4
sin 30° cos 60° + cos 30° sin 60° = 1
∴ sin(30° + 60° ) = sin 30° cos 60° + cos 30° sin 60° ; Hence verified.
(b) LHS:
sin(180° + 45° ) = sin 225°
sin(180° + 45° ) = − sin(225° − 180° )
sin(180° + 45° ) = − sin 45°
√2
sin(180° + 45° ) = −
2

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
RHS:
√2 √2
sin 180° cos 45° + cos 180° sin 45° = (0) ( 2 ) + (−1) ( 2 )
√2
sin 180° cos 45° + cos 180° sin 45° = 0 − 2
√2
sin 180° cos 45° + cos 180° sin 45° = −2
∴ sin(180° + 45° ) = sin 180° cos 45° + cos 180° sin 45° ; Hence
verified.
170. Verify that:
2 5 2 5 2 5
(a) sin ( 𝜋 + 𝜋) = sin 𝜋 cos 𝜋 + cos 𝜋 sin 𝜋
3 3 3 3 3 3
2 7 2 7 2 7
(b) sin (3 𝜋 − 6 𝜋) = sin 3 𝜋 cos 6 𝜋 − cos 3 𝜋 sin 6 𝜋
Solution
°
(a) Note: 𝜋 rad ≡ 180
LHS:
2 5 7
sin (3 𝜋 + 3 𝜋) = sin 3 𝜋
2 5 7
sin (3 𝜋 + 3 𝜋) = sin (3 𝜋 − 2𝜋)
2 5 𝜋
sin ( 𝜋 + 𝜋) = sin
3 3 3
From,

2 5 √3
sin (3 𝜋 + 3 𝜋) = 2
RHS:
2 5 2 5
sin 3 𝜋 cos 3 𝜋 + cos 3 𝜋 sin 3 𝜋
2 5 2 5
= [sin (π − 3 𝜋)] [cos (2𝜋 − 3 𝜋)] + [− cos (π − 3 𝜋)] [− sin (2𝜋 − 3 𝜋)]
2 5 2 5 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋
sin 3 𝜋 cos 3 𝜋 + cos 3 𝜋 sin 3 𝜋 = sin 3 cos 3 + (− cos 3 ) (− sin 3 )
2 5 2 5 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋
sin 3 𝜋 cos 3 𝜋 + cos 3 𝜋 sin 3 𝜋 = sin 3 cos 3 + cos 3 sin 3
2 5 2 5 𝜋 𝜋
sin 3 𝜋 cos 3 𝜋 + cos 3 𝜋 sin 3 𝜋 = 2 sin 3 cos 3
2 5 2 5 √3 1
sin 3 𝜋 cos 3 𝜋 + cos 3 𝜋 sin 3 𝜋 = 2 ( 2 ) (2)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
2 5 2 5 √3
sin 𝜋 cos 𝜋 + cos 𝜋 sin 𝜋 =
3 3 3 3 2
2 5 2 5 2 5
∴ sin (3 𝜋 + 3 𝜋) = sin 3 𝜋 cos 3 𝜋 + cos 3 𝜋 sin 3 𝜋; Hence verified.
(b) LHS:
2 7 𝜋 𝜋
sin (3 𝜋 − 6 𝜋) = sin (− 2 ) = − sin 2 = −1
RHS:
2 7 2 7
sin 3 𝜋 cos 6 𝜋 − cos 3 𝜋 sin 6 𝜋
2 7 2 7
= [sin (π − 3 𝜋)] [− cos (6 𝜋 − π)] − [− cos (π − 3 𝜋)] [− sin (6 𝜋 − π)]
2 7 2 7 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋
sin 3 𝜋 cos 6 𝜋 − cos 3 𝜋 sin 6 𝜋 = − sin 3 cos 6 − cos 3 sin 6
From,

2 7 2 7 √3 √3 1 1
sin 3 𝜋 cos 6 𝜋 − cos 3 𝜋 sin 6 𝜋 = − ( 2 ) ( 2 ) − (2) (2)
2 7 2 7 3 1
sin 3 𝜋 cos 6 𝜋 − cos 3 𝜋 sin 6 𝜋 = − 4 − 4
2 7 2 7
sin 3 𝜋 cos 6 𝜋 − cos 3 𝜋 sin 6 𝜋 = −1
2 7 2 7 2 7
∴ sin (3 𝜋 − 6 𝜋) = sin 3 𝜋 cos 6 𝜋 − cos 3 𝜋 sin 6 𝜋; Hence verified.
sin(𝐵+𝐴)+cos(𝐵−𝐴) cos 𝐴+sin 𝐴
171. Show that sin(𝐵−𝐴)+cos(𝐵+𝐴) = cos 𝐴−sin 𝐴.
Solution
Consider LHS
sin(𝐵+𝐴)+cos(𝐵−𝐴) sin 𝐵 cos 𝐴+cos 𝐵 sin 𝐴+cos B cos A+sin B sin A
= sin 𝐵 cos 𝐴−cos 𝐵 sin 𝐴+cos B cos A−sin B sin A
sin(𝐵−𝐴)+cos(𝐵+𝐴)
sin(𝐵+𝐴)+cos(𝐵−𝐴) sin 𝐵 cos 𝐴+sin B sin A+cos 𝐵 sin 𝐴+cos B cos A
= sin 𝐵 cos 𝐴−sin B sin A+cos B cos A−cos 𝐵 sin 𝐴
sin(𝐵−𝐴)+cos(𝐵+𝐴)
sin(𝐵+𝐴)+cos(𝐵−𝐴) sin 𝐵(cos 𝐴+sin A)+cos 𝐵(sin 𝐴+cos A)
= sin 𝐵(cos 𝐴−sin A)+cos B(cos A−sin 𝐴)
sin(𝐵−𝐴)+cos(𝐵+𝐴)
sin(𝐵+𝐴)+cos(𝐵−𝐴) (sin 𝐵+cos 𝐵)(sin 𝐴+cos A)
= (sin 𝐵+cos B)(cos A−sin 𝐴)
sin(𝐵−𝐴)+cos(𝐵+𝐴)
sin(𝐵+𝐴)+cos(𝐵−𝐴) cos 𝐴+sin 𝐴
∴ sin(𝐵−𝐴)+cos(𝐵+𝐴) = cos 𝐴−sin 𝐴; Hence shown.
172. Show that
𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋
(a) sin ( 3 − 𝑥) cos ( 6 + 𝑥) + cos (3 − 𝑥) sin ( 6 + 𝑥) = 1

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
3 𝜋 3 𝜋
(b) sin ( 𝜋 − 5) cos ( + 5) + cos ( 𝜋 − 5) sin ( + 5) = 1
8 8 8 8
4 𝜋 4 𝜋 √3
(c) sin (9 𝜋 + 7) cos ( 9 + 7) − cos (9 𝜋 + 7) sin ( 9 + 7) = 2
Solution
(a) Consider LHS
𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋
sin ( 3 − 𝑥) cos ( 6 + 𝑥) + cos ( 3 − 𝑥) sin ( 6 + 𝑥) = sin [( 3 − 𝑥) + ( 6 + 𝑥)]
𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋
sin ( 3 − 𝑥) cos ( 6 + 𝑥) + cos (3 − 𝑥) sin ( 6 + 𝑥) = sin 2
𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋
sin ( 3 − 𝑥) cos ( 6 + 𝑥) + cos (3 − 𝑥) sin ( 6 + 𝑥) = sin 90°
𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋
∴ sin (3 − 𝑥) cos (6 + 𝑥) + cos ( 3 − 𝑥) sin ( 6 + 𝑥) = 1; Hence shown.
(b) Consider LHS
3 𝜋 3 𝜋 3 𝜋
sin ( 𝜋 − 5) cos ( + 5) + cos ( 𝜋 − 5) sin ( + 5) = sin [( 𝜋 − 5) + ( + 5)]
8 8 8 8 8 8
3 𝜋 3 𝜋 𝜋
sin (8 𝜋 − 5) cos ( 8 + 5) + cos (8 𝜋 − 5) sin ( 8 + 5) = sin 2
3 𝜋 3 𝜋
sin (8 𝜋 − 5) cos ( 8 + 5) + cos (8 𝜋 − 5) sin ( 8 + 5) = sin 90°
3 𝜋 3 𝜋
∴ sin (8 𝜋 − 5) cos ( 8 + 5) + cos (8 𝜋 − 5) sin ( 8 + 5) = 1;Hence
shown
(c) Consider LHS
4 𝜋 4 𝜋 4 𝜋
sin ( 𝜋 + 7) cos ( + 7) − cos ( 𝜋 + 7) sin ( + 7) = sin [( 𝜋 + 7) − ( + 7)]
9 9 9 9 9 9
4 𝜋 4 𝜋 3
sin (9 𝜋 + 7) cos ( 9 + 7) − cos (9 𝜋 + 7) sin ( 9 + 7) = sin 9 𝜋
4 𝜋 4 𝜋
sin (9 𝜋 + 7) cos ( 9 + 7) − cos (9 𝜋 + 7) sin ( 9 + 7) = sin 60°
From,

√3
sin 60° = 2
4 𝜋 4 𝜋 √3
∴ sin (9 𝜋 + 7) cos ( 9 + 7) − cos (9 𝜋 + 7) sin ( 9 + 7) = ;Hence
2
shown
173. Without using mathematical table or calculator, evaluate the following:
(a) sin 78° cos 18° − cos 78° sin 18°
(b) sin 36° cos 9° + cos 36° sin 9°

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Solution
(a) sin 78 cos 18 − cos 78 sin 18 = sin(78° − 18° )
° ° ° °

sin 78° cos 18° − cos 78° sin 18° = sin 60°
√3
∴ sin 78° cos 18° − cos 78° sin 18° = 2
(b) sin 36° cos 9° + cos 36° sin 9° = sin(36 + 9° ) °

sin 36° cos 9° + cos 36° sin 9° = sin 45°

√2
∴ sin 36° cos 9° + cos 36° sin 9° = 2
174. Without using a calculator or tables, find the value of sin(150° − 45° ).
Solution
sin(150 − 45 = sin 150 cos 45 − cos 150° sin 45°
° °) ° °

sin(150° − 45° ) = sin(60° + 90° ) cos 45° − cos(60° + 90° ) sin 45°
sin(150° − 45° ) = [sin(60° + 90° )] cos 45° − [cos(60° + 90° )] sin 45°
sin(150° − 45° ) = (sin 60° cos 90° + cos 60° sin 90° ) cos 45° −
(cos 60° cos 90° − sin 60° sin 90° ) sin 45°
From,

√3 1 √2 1 √3 √2
sin(150° − 45° ) = [( 2 ) (0) + (2) (1)] − [(2) (0) − ( 2 ) (1)]
2 2
1 √2 √3 √2
sin(150° − 45° ) = (0 + 2) − (0 − )2
2 2
√2 (√3)(√2)
sin(150° − 45° ) = − [− ]
4 4
√2 (√3)(√2)
sin(150° − 45° ) = +
4 4
√2
sin(150° − 45° ) = (1 + √3)
4
1
∴ sin(150° − 45° ) = 4 √2(1 + √3)
1 1
175. If sin A = and sin B = , where A and B are positive acute angles.
√10 √5
Find the value of A + B.
Solution
1
For sin A =
√10
From

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

Consider the figure below.

A

√10

C 1 B
̅̅̅̅ 2 + BC
AC ̅̅̅̅ 2 = ̅̅̅̅
AB2
2
̅̅̅̅
AC 2 + 12 = (√10)
̅̅̅̅
AC 2 = 10 − 1
̅̅̅̅ 2 = 9
AC
√̅̅̅̅
AC 2 = √9
̅̅̅̅ = 3 units
AC
A

√10
3

C 1 B
3
cos A =
√10
1
For sin B =
√5
Consider the figure below.
A

√5
1

C B
̅̅̅̅
AC 2 + ̅̅̅̅
BC2 = ̅̅̅̅
AB2
2
12 + ̅̅̅̅
BC2 = (√5)
̅̅̅̅2 = 5 − 1
BC
̅̅̅̅
BC2 = 4
√̅̅̅̅
BC 2 = √4
̅̅̅̅
BC = 2 units

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

√5
1

C 2 B
2
cos B =
√5
sin(A + B) = sin A cos B + cos A sin B
1 2 3 1
sin(A + B) = ( )( )+ ( )( )
√10 √5 √10 √5
2 3
sin(A + B) = 5√2 + 5√2
2+3
sin(A + B) = 5√2
5
sin(A + B) = 5√2
1
sin(A + B) =
√2
1 √2
sin(A + B) = ( ) ( )
√2 √2
√2
sin(A + B) = 2
√2
A + B = sin−1 ( 2 )
From,

A + B = 45°
𝜋
∴A+B= 4
4 5 π
176. If sin A = 5 and cos B = 13 , where 0° < A, B < 2 , find the values of the
following:
(a) sin(A + B)
(b) cos(A + B)
(c) sin(A − B)
(d) cos(A − B)
Solution

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
4 5
Given that sin A = and cos B =
5 13
1st case: cos2 A + sin2 A = 1
4 2
cos2 A + (5) = 1
16
cos2 A + 25 = 1
16
cos2 A = 1 − 25
9
cos2 A = 25
9
√cos2 A = √25
3
cos A = 5
2nd case: cos 2 B + sin2 B = 1
5 2
(13) + sin2 B = 1
25
+ sin2 B = 1
169
25
sin2 B = 1 − 169
144
sin2 B = 169
144
√sin2 B = √169
12
sin B = 13
Then,
(a) sin(A + B) = sin A cos B + cos A sin B
4 5 3 12
sin(A + B) = (5) (13) + (5) (13)
4 36
sin(A + B) = 13 + 65
56
∴ sin(A + B) = 65
(b) cos(A + B) = cos A cos B − sin A sin B
3 5 4 12
cos(A + B) = (5) (13) − (5) (13)
3 48
cos(A + B) = 13 − 65
33
∴ cos(A + B) = − 65
(c) sin(A − B) = sin A cos B − cos A sin B
4 5 3 12
sin(A − B) = (5) (13) − (5) (13)

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
4 36
sin(A − B) = −
13 65
16
∴ sin(A − B) = − 65
(d) cos(A − B) = cos A cos B + sin A sin B
3 5 4 12
cos(A − B) = (5) (13) + (5) (13)
3 48
cos(A − B) = 13 + 65
63
∴ cos(A − B) = 65
7 𝜋 5 𝜋
177. Prove that: cos 12 𝜋 + cos 12 = sin 12 𝜋 − sin 12
Solution
First convert the angles to degrees.
Consider LHS
7
For 12 𝜋
πθ
From, s = 180°
7 πθ
𝜋 = 180°
12
7 θ
= 180°
12
7×180°
θ= = 105°
12
7
𝜋 = 105°
12
𝜋
For 12
𝜋 πθ
= 180°
12
1 θ
= 180°
12
180°
θ= = 15°
12
𝜋
= 15°
12
7 𝜋
cos 12 𝜋 + cos 12 = cos 105° + cos 15°
7 𝜋
cos 12 𝜋 + cos 12 = cos(45° + 60° ) + cos(60° − 45° )
7 𝜋
cos
12
𝜋 + cos 12 = cos 45° cos 60° − sin 45° sin 60° + cos 60° cos 45° + sin 60° sin 45°
From,

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

7 𝜋 √2 1 √2 √3 1 √2 √3 √2
cos 12 𝜋 + cos 12 = ( 2 ) (2) − ( 2 ) ( 2 ) + (2) ( 2 ) + ( 2 ) ( 2 )
7 𝜋 √2 √6 √2 √6
cos 12 𝜋 + cos 12 = − 4 + 4 +
4 4
7 𝜋 √2 √2
cos 12 𝜋 + cos 12 = 4
+ 4
7 𝜋 √2+√2
cos 12 𝜋 + cos 12 = 4
7 𝜋 2√2
cos 12 𝜋 + cos 12 = 4
7 𝜋 √2
cos 12 𝜋 + cos 12 = 2
Consider RHS
5
For 12 𝜋
πθ
From, s = 180°
5 πθ
𝜋 = 180°
12
5 θ
= 180°
12
5×180°
θ= = 75°
12
5
𝜋 = 75°
12
5 𝜋
sin 12 𝜋 − sin 12 = sin 75° − sin 15°
5 𝜋
sin 12 𝜋 − sin 12 = sin(30° + 45° ) − sin(60° − 45° )
5 𝜋
sin 𝜋 − sin = sin 30° cos 45° + cos 30° sin 45° − [sin 60° cos 45° − cos 60° sin 45° ]
12 12
From,

5 𝜋 1 √2 √3 √2 √3 √2 1 √2
sin 12 𝜋 − sin 12 = (2) ( 2 ) + ( 2 ) ( 2 ) − [( 2 ) ( 2 ) − (2) ( 2 )]
5 𝜋 √2 √6 √6 √2
sin 12 𝜋 − sin 12 = + − (4 − )
4 4 4

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
5 𝜋 √2 √6 √6 √2
sin 𝜋 − sin = + − +
12 12 4 4 4 4
5 𝜋 √2 √2
sin 12 𝜋 − sin 12 = + 4
4
5 𝜋 √2+√2
sin 12 𝜋 − sin 12 = 4
5 𝜋 2√2
sin 12 𝜋 − sin 12 = 4
5 𝜋 √2
sin 12 𝜋 − sin 12 = 2
7 𝜋 5 𝜋
∴ cos 12 𝜋 + cos 12 = sin 12 𝜋 − sin 12; Hence proved.
1 √5 5
178. The exact values of sin 18° and cos 18° are 4 (√5 − 1) and √ 8 + 8
respectively. Use these to find the exact values of the following. Do not
attempt to simplify your answers.
(a) sin 48° (b) cos 78° (c) sin 12° (d) cos 12°
Solution
° ° °)
(a) sin 48 = sin(18 + 30
sin 48° = sin 18° cos 30° + cos 18° sin 30°
From,

1 √3 √5 5 1
sin 48° = [4 (√5 − 1)] ( 2 ) + (√ 8 + 8) (2)

1 √5 5 √3 1
∴ sin 48° = 2 √ 8 + 8 + [ (√5 − 1)]
2 4
(b) cos 78° = cos(18° + 60 °)

cos 78° = cos 18° cos 60° − sin 18° sin 60°
From,

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
√5 5 1 1 √3
cos 78° = (√ 8 + 8) (2) − [4 (√5 − 1)] ( 2 )

1 √5 5 √3 1
∴ cos 78° = 2 √ 8 + 8 − [ (√5 − 1)]
2 4
(c) sin 12° = sin(30° − 18° )
sin 12° = sin 30° cos 18° − cos 30° sin 18°
From,

1 √5 5 √3 1
∴ sin 12° = 2 √ 8 + 8 − [ (√5 − 1)]
2 4
(d) cos 12° = cos(30° − 18 °)

cos 12° = cos 30° cos 18° + sin 30° sin 18°
From,

√3 √5 5 1 1
∴ cos 12° = √ + 8 + 2 [4 (√5 − 1)]
2 8
179. If sin 36° cos 12 = 𝑝 and cos 36° sin 12° = 𝑞, determine in terms of p
°

and q the value of (a) sin 48° (b) sin 24° (c) cos 24°
Solution
° ° °)
(a) sin 48 = sin(36 + 12
sin 48° = sin 36° cos 12° + cos 36° sin 12°
∴ sin 48° = 𝑝 + 𝑞
(b) sin 24° = (36° − 12° )
sin 24° = sin 36° cos 12° − cos 36° sin 12°
∴ sin 24° = 𝑝 − 𝑞
(c) sin 48° = sin(24° + 24° )
sin 48° = sin 24° cos 24° + cos 24° sin 24°
sin 48° = 2 sin 24° cos 24°

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
sin 48°
cos 24° =
2 sin 24°
𝑝+𝑞
∴ cos 24° =
2(𝑝 − 𝑞)
180. Find the value of tan 𝑥 given 2 sin(𝑥 − 45° ) = cos(𝑥 + 45° ).
Solution
°) °)
2 sin(𝑥 − 45 = cos(𝑥 + 45
2(sin 𝑥 cos 45° − cos 𝑥 sin 45° ) = cos 𝑥 cos 45° − sin 𝑥 sin 45°
√2 √2 √2 √2
2 ( 2 sin 𝑥 − cos 𝑥) =
cos 𝑥 − sin 𝑥
2 2 2
√2 √2
2 [ 2 (sin 𝑥 − cos 𝑥)] = 2 (cos 𝑥 − sin 𝑥)
√2 √2
[2(sin 𝑥 − cos 𝑥)] = (cos 𝑥 − sin 𝑥)
2 2
2(sin 𝑥 − cos 𝑥) = cos 𝑥 − sin 𝑥
2 sin 𝑥 − 2 cos 𝑥 = cos 𝑥 − sin 𝑥
2 sin 𝑥 + sin 𝑥 = cos 𝑥 + 2 cos 𝑥
3 sin 𝑥 = 3 cos 𝑥
sin 𝑥 3
=3
cos 𝑥
∴ tan 𝑥 = 1
3
181. If sin 3𝜃 = 𝑝 and sin2 θ = 4 − 𝑞, prove that 𝑝2 + 16𝑞 3 = 12𝑞 2 .
Solution
sin 3𝜃 = 𝑝 − − − −(i)
3
sin2 θ = 4 − 𝑞 − − − −(ii)
3
sin 𝜃 = √4 − 𝑞 − − − −(iii)
From equation (i) above,
sin 3𝜃 = 𝑝
sin(𝜃 + 2𝜃) = 𝑝
sin θ cos 2θ + cos θ sin 2θ = 𝑝
sin θ cos(𝜃 + 𝜃) + cos θ sin(𝜃 + 𝜃) = 𝑝
sin θ (cos 𝜃 cos 𝜃 − sin 𝜃 sin 𝜃) + cos θ (sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃 + cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃) = 𝑝
sin θ (cos2 𝜃 − sin2 θ) + cos θ (2 sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃) = 𝑝
sin θ (cos2 𝜃 − sin2 θ) + 2 sin 𝜃 cos2 𝜃 = 𝑝
sin θ (1 − sin2 θ − sin2 θ) + 2 sin 𝜃 (1 − sin2 θ) = 𝑝
sin θ (1 − 2 sin2 θ) + 2 sin 𝜃 (1 − sin2 θ) = 𝑝
sin θ [1 − 2 sin2 θ + 2(1 − sin2 θ)] = 𝑝

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
sin θ (1 − 2 sin2 θ + 2 − 2 sin2 θ) = 𝑝
sin θ (3 − 4 sin2 θ) = 𝑝 − − − −(iv)
Substitute equations (ii) and (iii) into equation (iv) above.
3 3
√ − 𝑞 [3 − 4 ( − 𝑞)] = 𝑝
4 4

3
√ − 𝑞(3 − 3 + 4𝑞) = 𝑝
4

3
√ − 𝑞(4𝑞) = 𝑝
4
3
4𝑞√4 − 𝑞 = 𝑝
2
3
(4𝑞√4 − 𝑞) = 𝑝2
3
16𝑞 2 (4 − 𝑞) = 𝑝2
12𝑞 2 − 16𝑞 3 = 𝑝2
∴ 𝑝2 + 16𝑞 3 = 12𝑞 2 ; Hence proved.
182. For any triangle ABC, show that:
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑎2 −𝑏2
sin 2𝐴 + sin 2𝐵 + sin 2𝐶 = 0
𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑐2
Solution
Consider LHS
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
For: sin 2𝐴
𝑎2
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
sin 2𝐴 = sin(𝐴 + 𝐴)
𝑎2 𝑎2
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
sin 2𝐴 = (sin A cos A + cos A sin A)
𝑎2 𝑎2
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
sin 2𝐴 = (2 sin A cos A) − − − −(i)
𝑎2 𝑎2
From sine rule,
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
= sin B = sin C = 𝑘
sin A
𝑎
=𝑘
sin A
𝑎
sin 𝐴 = 𝑘 − − − −(ii)
From cosine rule,
𝑎2 = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑏𝑐 cos A
2𝑏𝑐 cos A = 𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2
cos A = − − − −(iii)
2𝑏𝑐
Substititute equations (ii) and (iii) into equation (i) above.
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 2𝑎 𝑏 2 +𝑐 2 −𝑎2
sin 2𝐴 = [𝑘 ( )]
𝑎2 𝑎2 2𝑏𝑐
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 2𝑎
sin 2𝐴 = [2𝑘𝑏𝑐 (𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 )]
𝑎2 𝑎2
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 1
sin 2𝐴 = [𝑘𝑏𝑐 (𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 )]
𝑎2 𝑎
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 1
sin 2𝐴 = 𝑘𝑎𝑏𝑐 [(𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )(𝑏 2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 )]
𝑎2
𝑏 −𝑐 2
2 1
sin 2𝐴 = (𝑏 4 + 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 𝑏 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 − 𝑐 4 + 𝑎2 𝑐 2 )
𝑎2 𝑘𝑎𝑏𝑐
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 1
sin 2𝐴 = 𝑘𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑏 4 − 𝑐 4 − 𝑎2 𝑏 2 + 𝑎2 𝑐 2 ) − − − −(iv)
𝑎2
𝑐 2 −𝑎2
For: sin 2𝐵
𝑏2
𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑐 2 −𝑎2
sin 2𝐵 = sin(𝐵 + 𝐵)
𝑏2 𝑏2
𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑐 2 −𝑎2
sin 2𝐵 = (sin B cos B + cos B sin B)
𝑏2 𝑏2
𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑐 2 −𝑎2
sin 2𝐵 = (2 sin B cos B) − − − −(v)
𝑏2 𝑏2
From sine rule,
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
= sin B = sin C = 𝑘
sin A
𝑏
=𝑘
sin B
𝑏
sin 𝐵 = 𝑘 − − − −(vi)
From cosine rule,
𝑏 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 2𝑎𝑐 cos B
2𝑎𝑐 cos B = 𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2
𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏 2
cos B = − − − −(vii)
2𝑎𝑐
Substititute equations (vi) and (vii) into equation (v) above.
𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑐 2 −𝑎2 2𝑏 𝑎2 +𝑐 2 −𝑏2
sin 2𝐵 = [𝑘 ( )]
𝑏2 𝑏2 2𝑎𝑐
𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑐 −𝑎2
2 2𝑏
sin 2𝐵 = [ (𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 )]
𝑏2 𝑏2 2𝑘𝑎𝑐
𝑐 −𝑎2
2 𝑐 −𝑎2 1
2
sin 2𝐵 = [𝑘𝑎𝑐 (𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 )]
𝑏2 𝑏
𝑐 2 −𝑎2 1
sin 2𝐵 = 𝑘𝑎𝑏𝑐 [(𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 )(𝑎2 + 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 )]
𝑏2
𝑐 2 −𝑎2 1
sin 2𝐵 = 𝑘𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑎2 𝑐 2 + 𝑐 4 − 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎4 − 𝑎2 𝑐 2 + 𝑎2 𝑏 2 )
𝑏2

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑐 2 −𝑎2 1
sin 2𝐵 = (𝑐 4 − 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎4 + 𝑎2 𝑏 2 )
𝑏2 𝑘𝑎𝑏𝑐
𝑐 2 −𝑎2 1
sin 2𝐵 = 𝑘𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑐 4 − 𝑎4 + 𝑎2 𝑏 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 ) − − − −(viii)
𝑏2
𝑎2 −𝑏2
For: sin 2𝐶
𝑐2
𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑎2 −𝑏2
sin 2𝐶 = sin(𝐶 + 𝐶)
𝑐2 𝑐2
𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑎 −𝑏2
2
sin 2𝐶 = (sin C cos C + cos C sin C)
𝑐2 𝑐2
𝑎 −𝑏2
2 𝑎 −𝑏2
2
sin 2𝐶 = (2 sin C cos C) − − − −(ix)
𝑐2 𝑐2
From sine rule,
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐
= sin B = sin C = 𝑘
sin A
𝑐
=𝑘
sin C
𝑐
sin 𝐶 = 𝑘 − − − −(x)
From cosine rule,
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 2𝑎𝑏 cos C
2𝑎𝑏 cos C = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2
𝑎2 +𝑏 2 −𝑐 2
cos C = − − − −(xi)
2𝑎𝑏
Substititute equations (x) and (xi) into equation (ix) above.
𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑎2 −𝑏2 2𝑐 𝑎2 +𝑏2 −𝑐 2
sin 2𝐶 = [𝑘 ( )]
𝑐2 𝑐2 2𝑎𝑏
𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑎2 −𝑏2 2𝑐
sin 2𝐶 = [2𝑘𝑎𝑏 (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )]
𝑐2 𝑐2
𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑎2 −𝑏2 1
sin 2𝐶 = [𝑘𝑎𝑏 (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )]
𝑐2 𝑐
𝑎2 −𝑏2 1
sin 2𝐶 = 𝑘𝑎𝑏𝑐 [(𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 )(𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 − 𝑐 2 )]
𝑐2
𝑎 −𝑏2
2 1
sin 2𝐶 = 𝑘𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑎4 + 𝑎2 𝑏 2 − 𝑎2 𝑐 2 − 𝑎2 𝑏 2 − 𝑏 4 + 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 )
𝑐2
𝑎 −𝑏2
2 1
sin 2𝐶 = 𝑘𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑎4 − 𝑎2 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 4 + 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 )
𝑐2
𝑎2 −𝑏2 1
sin 2𝐶 = 𝑘𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑎4 − 𝑏 4 − 𝑎2 𝑐 2 + 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 ) − − − −(xii)
𝑐2
Now,
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑎2 −𝑏2
sin 2𝐴 + sin 2𝐵 + sin 2𝐶
𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑐2
1 1
= 𝑘𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑏 4 − 𝑐 4 − 𝑎2 𝑏 2 + 𝑎2 𝑐 2 ) + 𝑘𝑎𝑏𝑐 (𝑐 4 − 𝑎4 + 𝑎2 𝑏 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 ) +
1
(𝑎4 − 𝑏 4 − 𝑎2 𝑐 2 + 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 )
𝑘𝑎𝑏𝑐

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
1
= [(𝑏 4 − 𝑐 4 − 𝑎2 𝑏 2 + 𝑎2 𝑐 2 ) + (𝑐 4 − 𝑎4 + 𝑎2 𝑏 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 ) + (𝑎4 −
𝑘𝑎𝑏𝑐
𝑏 4 − 𝑎2 𝑐 2 + 𝑏 2 𝑐 2 )]
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑎2 −𝑏2 1
sin 2𝐴 + sin 2𝐵 + sin 2𝐶 = 𝑘𝑎𝑏𝑐 (0)
𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑐2
𝑏 2 −𝑐 2 𝑐 2 −𝑎2 𝑎2 −𝑏2
∴ sin 2𝐴 + sin 2𝐵 + sin 2𝐶 = 0; Hence shown.
𝑎2 𝑏2 𝑐2
183. In the diagram below, ABC is a right – angled triangle. KC is the bisector
of AĈB, ̅̅̅̅
AC = 𝑟 units and BĈK = 𝑥.
C
𝑥 𝑥
𝑟

B K A

(a) Write down ̅̅̅̅

AB in terms of x and r.
̂ C in terms of x.
(b) Give the size of AK
̅̅̅̅
AK 2
(c) If it is given that ̅̅̅̅ = 3, calculate the value of x.
AB
Solution
(a) From,

̅̅̅̅
AB
sin 2𝑥 = 𝑟
∴ ̅̅̅̅
AB = 𝑟 sin 2𝑥
̂
(b) AKC + BK ̂ C = 180° − − − −(i)
BK̂ C + KĈB + CB
̂ K = 180°
BK̂ C + 𝑥 + 90° = 180°
BK̂ C = 180° − (𝑥 + 90° )
BK̂ C = 180° − 90° − 𝑥
BK̂ C = 90° − 𝑥 − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (ii) into equation (i) above.
̂ C + 90° − 𝑥 = 180°
AK
̂ C = 180° − (90° − 𝑥)
AK
̂ C = 180° − 90° + 𝑥
AK
̂ C = 90° + 𝑥
∴ AK

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(c) Consider the diagram below.
C
𝑥 𝑥
𝑟

90° − 𝑥 90° + 𝑥
B K A
In ∆AKC:
̅̅̅̅
AC ̅̅̅̅
AK
̂C
= sin AĈK
sin AK
𝑟 ̅̅̅̅
AK
= sin 𝑥
sin(90° +𝑥)
𝑟 ̅̅̅̅
AK
= sin 𝑥
sin 90° cos 𝑥+cos 90° sin 𝑥
𝑟 ̅̅̅̅
AK
= sin 𝑥
cos 𝑥+0
𝑟 ̅̅̅̅
AK
= sin 𝑥
cos 𝑥
̅̅̅̅ = 𝑟 sin 𝑥
AK cos 𝑥
̅̅̅̅
AK 2
But ̅̅̅̅ =3
AB
𝑟 sin 𝑥
( ) 2
cos 𝑥
=3
𝑟 sin 2𝑥
sin 𝑥
( ) 2
cos 𝑥
=
2sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥 3
sin 𝑥 2sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥 2
÷ =3
cos 𝑥 1
sin 𝑥 1 2
(cos 𝑥) (2sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥) = 3
1 2
=3
2 cos2 𝑥
4 cos2 𝑥 = 3
3
cos2 𝑥 = 4
3
√cos2 𝑥 = √4
√3
cos 𝑥 = 2
√3
𝑥 = cos−1 ( 2 )
From,

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

∴ 𝑥 = 30°
184. In the diagram below, RS ̅̅̅̅ is the height of a vertical tower. T and Q are
two points in the same horizontal plane as the foot S of the tower. From point
T the angle of elevation to the top of the tower is 60° . RT ̂ T = 60°
̂Q = θ, RQ
and ̅̅̅̅
TQ = 𝑘 metres.
R

60°
T 𝜃 S

𝑘 60°

Q
(a) Express ̅̅̅̅
TR interms of 𝜃 and k.
3𝑘
̅̅̅̅ =
(b) Show that RS 2(√3 cos 𝜃+sin 𝜃)
Solution
(a) In ∆TRQ:
TR ̂ T + QT
̂ Q + RQ ̂R = 180°
TR̂ Q + 60° + θ = 180°
TR̂ Q = 180° − (𝜃 + 60° )
TR̂ Q = 180° − 𝜃 − 60°
TR̂ Q = 120° − 𝜃
From the sine rule,
̅̅̅̅
TR ̅̅̅̅
TQ
̂T
= sin QR̂T
sin RQ
̅̅̅̅
TR 𝑘
= sin(120° −𝜃)
sin 60°
𝑘 sin 60°
̅̅̅̅ =
∴ TR sin(120° −𝜃)
(b) In ∆TRS:

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
From,

̅̅̅̅
̂ S = RS
sin RT ̅̅̅̅
TR
̅̅̅̅
RS
sin 60° = TR
̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅̅
RS = TR sin 60°
𝑘 sin 60°
But ̅̅̅̅
TR = sin(120° −𝜃)
𝑘 sin 60 °
̅̅̅
RS̅ = [sin(120° −𝜃)] sin 60°
𝑘 sin 60 °
̅̅̅
RS̅ = [sin 120° cos θ−cos 120° sin θ] sin 60°
𝑘(sin 60 ) ° 2
̅̅̅
RS̅ = [sin(60° +60° ) cos θ−cos(60° +60° ) sin θ]
° 2
𝑘(sin 60 )
̅̅̅̅ = [
RS ]
(sin 60° cos 60° +cos 60° sin 60° ) cos θ−(cos 60° cos 60° −sin 60° sin 60° ) sin θ
From,

2
√3
) 𝑘(
̅̅̅̅ = [
RS
2
]
√3 1 1 √3 1 1 √3 √3
[( )( )+( )( )] cos θ−[( )( )−( )( )] sin θ
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

3𝑘
̅̅̅
RS̅ = [ 4
]
√3 √3 1 3
( + ) cos θ−( − ) sin θ
4 4 4 4
3𝑘
̅̅̅
RS̅ = [ 4
]
2√3 1
( ) cos θ−(− ) sin θ
4 2
3𝑘
̅̅̅
RS̅ = 4
√3 1
cos θ+ sin θ
2 2
1
3𝑘
̅̅̅̅ = (
RS 4
1 )
√3 cos 𝜃+sin 𝜃
2
3𝑘
̅̅̅̅ =
∴ RS ; Hence shown.
2(√3 cos 𝜃+sin 𝜃)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
185. In the diagram below A, B and C are three points in the same horizontal
plane. D is vertically above B and E is vertically above C. The angle of
elevation of E from D is 𝜃. F is a point on EC such that DF‖BC.
E

𝜃 F
D

B C
𝛽
𝛼 𝑏
A
̂ C = 𝛼, AĈB = 𝛽 and AC = 𝑏.
BA
𝑏 sin 𝛼
(a) Prove that DE = sin(𝛼+𝛽) cos 𝜃
(b) Calculate DE if 𝑏 = 2000 m, 𝛼 = 43° , 𝛽 = 36° and 𝜃 = 27° .
Solution
(a) From,

DF
cos 𝜃 = DE
DF
DE = cos 𝜃 − − − −(i)
𝑎 𝑏
From the sine rule, sin A = sin B
∠A + ∠B + ∠C = 180° … … (sum of angles in a triangle)
𝛼 + ∠B + 𝛽 = 180°
∠B = 180° − (𝛼 + 𝛽)
𝐵𝐶 𝑏
= sin[180° −(𝛼+𝛽)]
sin α
𝐵𝐶 𝑏
= sin 180° cos(𝛼+𝛽)−cos 180° sin(𝛼+𝛽)
sin α
𝐵𝐶 𝑏
= (0) cos(𝛼+𝛽)−(−1) sin(𝛼+𝛽)
sin α
𝐵𝐶 𝑏
= 0+sin(𝛼+𝛽)
sin α
𝐵𝐶 𝑏
= sin(𝛼+𝛽)
sin α
𝑏 sin 𝛼
𝐵𝐶 = sin(𝛼+𝛽)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
But BC = DF
𝑏 sin 𝛼
DF = sin(𝛼+𝛽) − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (ii) into equation (i) above.
𝑏 sin 𝛼
sin(𝛼+𝛽)
DE = cos 𝜃
𝑏 sin 𝛼
∴ DE = sin(𝛼+𝛽) cos 𝜃; Hence proved.
𝑏 sin 𝛼
(b) DE = sin(𝛼+𝛽) cos 𝜃
2,000 sin 43°
DE = sin(43° +36° ) cos 27°
2,000 sin 43°
DE = (sin 43° cos 36° +cos 43° sin 36° ) cos 27°
2,000(0.6820)
DE = [(0.6820)(0.8090)+(0.7314)(0.5878)] cos 27°
1,364
DE = (0.551738+0.42991692)0.8910
1,364
DE = (0.98165492)0.8910
1,364
DE = 0.874654533
∴ DE = 1559.50 m
186. A hot – air balloon H is directly above point B on the ground. Two ropes
are used to keep the hot – air balloon in position. The ropes are held by two
people on the ground at point C and point D. B, C and D are in the same
̂ B = 2𝑥 and
horizontal plane. The angle of elevation from C to H is x. CD
̂ D = 90° − 𝑥. The distance between C and D is k metres (see the figure
CB
below).

H
𝜃
B

90° − 𝑥
𝑥
2𝑥
C 𝑘 D

(a) Show that ̅̅̅̅

CB = 2𝑘 sin 𝑥.
(b) Hence, show that the length of rope, ̅̅̅̅
HC = 2𝑘 tan 𝑥.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(c) If 𝑘 = 40 m, 𝑥 = 23° and ̅̅̅̅
HD = 31.8 m, calculate 𝜃, the angle between
the two ropes.
Solution
(a) From the sine rule,
̅̅̅̅
CB ̅̅̅̅
CD
̂C
= sin CB̂D
sin BD
̅̅̅̅
CB 𝑘
= sin(90° −𝑥)
sin 2𝑥
̅̅̅̅
CB 𝑘
= sin(90° −𝑥)
sin(𝑥+𝑥)
̅̅̅̅
CB 𝑘
=
sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥+cos 𝑥 sin 𝑥 sin 90° cos 𝑥−cos 90° sin 𝑥
̅̅̅̅
CB 𝑘
= cos 𝑥−0
2 sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥
̅̅̅̅
CB 𝑘
= cos 𝑥
2 sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥
̅̅̅̅
CB cos 𝑥 = 2𝑘 sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥
̅̅̅̅ = 2𝑘 sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥
CB cos 𝑥
̅̅̅̅ = 2𝑘 sin 𝑥; Hence shown.
∴ CB
(b) From,

̅̅̅̅
BC
cos 𝑥 = ̅̅̅̅
HC
̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅ = BC
HC cos 𝑥
2𝑘 sin 𝑥
̅̅̅̅
HC = cos 𝑥
∴ ̅̅̅̅
HC = 2𝑘 tan 𝑥; Hence shown.
(c) ̅̅̅̅
HC = 2𝑘 tan 𝑥
̅̅̅̅ = 2(40 m) tan 23°
HC
̅̅̅̅ = (80 tan 23° ) m
HC
̅̅̅̅
HC = (80 × 0.4245) m
̅̅̅̅
HC = 33.96 m
From cosine rule, 𝑘 2 = 𝑐 2 + 𝑑2 − 2𝑐𝑑 cos θ
(40 m)2 = (31.8 m)2 + (33.96 m)2 − 2(31.8 m)(33.96 m) cos θ
1,600 m2 = (1,011.24 + 1,153.2816 − 2,159.856 cos θ) m2
1,600 = 2,164.5216 − 2,159.856 cos θ
2,159.856 cos θ = 2,164.5216 − 1,600
2,159.856 cos θ = 564.5216

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
564.5216
cos θ =
2,159.856
cos θ = 0.2614
𝜃 = cos −1(0.2614)
∴ 𝜃 = 74.85°
187. The angle of elevation of a vertical tower standing on a horizontal plane is
𝜃, going a distance ‘a’ towards the tower the angle of elevation is 45° , again
proceeding a distance ‘b’ towards the tower the angle becomes (90° − 𝜃). If h
𝑎𝑏
is the height of the tower, show that ℎ = 𝑎−𝑏.
Solution
Let AB be the tower, E, D and C be the first, second and third point of
observation respectively.
A

𝜃 45° (90° − 𝜃)
E 𝑎 𝑏 𝑥 B
D C
Also let x be the distance between the third point of observation and the tower.
From

ℎ
tan(90° − θ) = 𝑥
sin(90° −θ) ℎ
=𝑥
cos(90° −θ)
sin 90° cos θ−cos 90° sin θ ℎ
=𝑥
cos 90° cos θ+sin 90° sin θ
(1) cos θ−(0) sin θ ℎ
(0) cos θ+(1) sin θ
=𝑥
cos θ ℎ
=𝑥
sin θ
sin 𝜃 𝑥
=ℎ
cos 𝜃
𝑥
ℎ
= tan 𝜃
𝑥 = ℎ tan 𝜃 − − − −(i)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
ℎ
tan 45° =
𝑥+𝑏
ℎ
1 = 𝑥+𝑏
ℎ =𝑥+𝑏
𝑥 = ℎ − 𝑏 − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (ii) into equation (i).
ℎ − 𝑏 = ℎ tan 𝜃
ℎ − ℎ tan 𝜃 = 𝑏
ℎ(1 − tan 𝜃) = 𝑏
𝑏
ℎ= − − − −(iii)
1−tan 𝜃
ℎ
tan 𝜃 = 𝑥+𝑎+𝑏 − − − −(iv)
Substitute equation (ii) into equation (iv).
ℎ
tan 𝜃 = ℎ−𝑏+𝑎+𝑏
ℎ
tan 𝜃 = 𝑎+ℎ − − − −(v)
Substitute equation (v) into equation (iii).
𝑏
ℎ= ℎ
1−
𝑎+ℎ
𝑏
ℎ=1 ℎ
−
1 𝑎+ℎ
𝑏
ℎ= 𝑎+ℎ−ℎ
𝑎+ℎ
𝑏
ℎ= 𝑎
𝑎+ℎ
𝑏 𝑎
ℎ = 1 ÷ (𝑎+ℎ)
𝑏 (𝑎+ℎ)
ℎ=1× 𝑎
𝑎𝑏+𝑏ℎ
ℎ=
𝑎
𝑎ℎ = 𝑎𝑏 + 𝑏ℎ
𝑎ℎ − 𝑏ℎ = 𝑎𝑏
ℎ(𝑎 − 𝑏) = 𝑎𝑏
ℎ(𝑎−𝑏) 𝑎𝑏
(𝑎−𝑏)
= 𝑎−𝑏
𝑎𝑏
∴ ℎ = 𝑎−𝑏; Hence shown.
188. The angles of elevation of the top of a tower from two points at a distance
of 4 m and 9 m from the base of the tower and in the same straight line with it
are complementary. Prove that the height of the tower is 6 m.

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Solution
Let P and Q be the two points, θ1 and θ2 be the two angles of elevation. Also
let the height of the tower, ̅̅̅̅
AB be h.
Since θ1 and θ2 are complementary, then θ1 + θ2 = 90°
θ2 = 90° − θ1
B

θ1 90° − θ1
Q P A
5m 4m
9m

From

ℎ
tan θ1 = 9
sin θ1 ℎ
=
cos θ1 9
ℎ cos θ1 = 9 sin θ1 − − − −(i)
ℎ
tan(90° − θ1 ) = 4
sin(90° −θ1 ) ℎ
=4
cos(90° −θ1 )
sin 90° cos θ1 −cos 90° sin θ1 ℎ
=
cos 90° cos θ1 +sin 90° sin θ1 4
(1) cos θ1 −(0) sin θ1 ℎ
(0) cos θ1 +(1) sin θ1
=4
cos θ1 ℎ
=
sin θ1 4
4 cos θ1 = ℎ sin θ1 − − − −(ii)
Make cos θ1 the subject in equation (ii) above.
ℎ
cos θ1 = 4 sin θ1 − − − −(iii)
Substitute equation (iii) into equation (i) above.
ℎ
ℎ (4 sin θ1 ) = 9 sin θ1

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
ℎ2
sin θ1 = 9 sin θ1
4
ℎ2
=9
4
2
ℎ = 36
√ℎ2 = √36
ℎ=6
∴ The height of the tower is 6 m.
The tangent of the sum and difference of any two angles
The relation for the tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) and tan(𝐴 − 𝐵) for acute angles A and B are
also the same for a function of numbers.
To find the value of tan(𝐴 + 𝐵), one needs to consider the trigonometric ratio
relations for tan 𝜃 , sin 𝜃 , and cos 𝜃 where 𝜃 is an acute angle.
sin 𝜃
Generally, it is known that: tan 𝜃 = cos 𝜃
Then, suppose that 𝜃 = 𝐴 + 𝐵.
sin(𝐴+𝐵)
Thus, tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = cos(𝐴+𝐵)
sin 𝐴 cos 𝐵+sin 𝐵 cos 𝐴
tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = cos 𝐴 cos 𝐵−sin 𝐴 sin 𝐵
Then divide all the terms of tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) by cos 𝐴 cos 𝐵.
sin 𝐴 cos 𝐵 sin 𝐵 cos 𝐴
+
cos 𝐴 cos 𝐵 cos 𝐴 cos 𝐵
tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = cos 𝐴 cos 𝐵 sin 𝐴 sin 𝐵
−
cos 𝐴 cos 𝐵 cos 𝐴 cos 𝐵
tan 𝐴+tan 𝐵
tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = 1−tan 𝐴 tan 𝐵
tan A−tan B
Conversely, tan(A − B) = 1+tan A tan B
1
189. Find the value of tan 𝐵 if tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = 2 and tan 𝐴 = 2.
Solution
tan 𝐴+tan 𝐵
tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = 1−tan 𝐴 tan 𝐵
1
+tan 𝐵
2
2= 1
1− tan 𝐵
2
1 1
+ tan 𝐵 = 2 (1 − 2 tan 𝐵)
2
1
+ tan 𝐵 = 2 − tan 𝐵
2
1
tan 𝐵 + tan 𝐵 = 2 − 2
3
2 tan 𝐵 = 2
3
2
tan 𝐵 =
2

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
3
∴ tan 𝐵 =
4
190. Verify that:
tan 180° +tan 45°
(a) tan 225° = 1−tan 180° ×tan 45°
2 tan 60°
(b) tan 120° = 1−tan2 60°
Solution
(a) LHS
tan 225° = tan(225° − 180° )
tan 225° = tan 45° = 1
RHS
tan 180° +tan 45° 0+1
= 1−(0×1)
1−tan 180° ×tan 45°
tan 180° +tan 45° 1
= =1
1−tan 180° ×tan 45° 1
tan 180° +tan 45°
°
∴ tan 225 = 1−tan 180° ×tan 45°; Hence verified.
(b) LHS
tan 120° = − tan(180° − 120° )
tan 120° = − tan 60°
From,

tan 120° = −√3

RHS
2 tan 60° 2 tan 60°
=
1−tan2 60° 1−(tan 60° )(tan 60° )
2 tan 60° 2√3
= 1−(√3)(√3)
1−tan2 60°
2 tan 60° 2√3
= 1−3
1−tan2 60°
2 tan 60° 2√3
=
1−tan2 60° −2
2 tan 60°
= −√3
1−tan2 60°
2 tan 60°
∴ tan 120° = 1−tan2 60°; Hence verified.

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
tan 40° +tan 20°
191. Find the value of without using trigonometrical tables or
1−tan 40° ×tan 20°
calculators.
Solution
tan 40° +tan 20°
= tan(40° + 20° )
1−tan 40° ×tan 20°
tan 40° +tan 20°
= tan 60°
1−tan 40° ×tan 20°
From,

tan 40° +tan 20°

∴ 1−tan 40° ×tan 20° = √3
192. Without the use of tables, find the exact values of the following:
(a) tan 15° (b) tan 75°
Solution
° ° °)
(a) tan 15 = tan(45 − 30
tan 45° −tan 30°
tan 15° = 1+tan 45° tan 30°
From,

√2
sin 45°
tan 45° = cos 45° = 2
√2
=1
2
1
sin 30° 1 √3
tan 30° = cos 30° = 2
√3
=2÷ 2
2
1 2 1 1 √3
tan 30° = 2 × = = ( )( )
√3 √3 √3 √3
° √3
tan 30 = 3
√3 3−√3
1− 3−√3 3+√3
tan 15° = 3
√3
= 3
3+√3
= 3
÷ 3
1+
3 3

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
3−√3 3
tan 15° = ( )×( )
3 3+√3
3−√3
tan 15° = 3+√3
3−√3 3−√3
tan 15° = (3+√3) (3−√3)
9−3√3−3√3+3
tan 15° = 9−3√3+3√3−3
12−6√3
tan 15° = 6
6(2−√3)
tan 15° = 6
∴ tan 15° = 2 − √3
(b) tan 75° = tan(30° + 45° )
From,

tan 30° +tan 45°

tan 75° =
1−tan 30° tan 45°
√3
+1
° 3
tan 75 = √3
1−( )(1)
3
√3+3
° 3
tan 75 = 3−√3
3
√3+3 3−√3
tan 75° = ( 3
)÷( 3 )
√3+3 3
tan 75° = ( 3 ) × (3−√3)
√3+3
tan 75° = 3−√3
√3+3 3+√3
tan 75° = (3−√3) (3+√3)
3√3+3+9+3√3
tan 75° = 9+3√3−3√3−3
12+6√3
tan 75° = 6
6(2+√3)
tan 75° = 6
°
∴ tan 75 = 2 + √3

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
12 4
193. Given sin 𝐴 = and cos 𝐵 = , if A and B are both acute, find the value
13 5
of (a) tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) (b) tan(𝐴 − 𝐵)
Solution
12 4
Given that sin A = 13 and cos B = 5
1st case: cos2 A + sin2 A = 1
12 2
cos2 A + (13) = 1
144
cos2 A + 169 = 1
144
cos2 A = 1 −
169
2 25
cos A = 169
25
√cos2 A = √169
5
cos A = 13
sin 𝐴
tan A = cos 𝐴
12
13
tan A = 5
13
12 5
tan A = 13 ÷ 13
12 13
tan A = 13 × 5
12
tan A = 5
2nd case: cos 2 B + sin2 B = 1
4 2
(5) + sin2 B = 1
16
+ sin2 B = 1
25
16
sin2 B = 1 − 25
9
sin2 B = 25
9
√sin2 B = √25
3
sin B = 5
3
5
tan B = 4
5
3 4
tan B = 5 ÷ 5

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
3 5
tan B = ×
5 4
3
tan B = 4
Then,
tan A+tan B
(a) tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = 1−tan A tan B
12 3
+
5 4
tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = 12 3
1−( )( )
5 4
63
20
tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = 36
1−
20
63
20
tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = 4
−
5
63 4
tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = 20 ÷ (− 5)
63 5
tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = 20 × (− 4)
63
∴ tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = − 16
tan A−tan B
(b) tan(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 1+tan A tan B
12 3
−
5 4
tan(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 12 3
1+( )( )
5 4
33
20
tan(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 36
1+
20
33
20
tan(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 14
5
33 14
tan(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 20 ÷ 5
33 5
tan(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 20 × 14
33
∴ tan(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 56
3
194. If tan(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 4 and tan 𝐴 = 5, find the value of tan 𝐵.
Solution
3
tan(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 4
tan A−tan B
tan(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 1+tan A tan B
5−tan B 3
=4
1+5 tan B
3(1 + 5 tan B) = 4(5 − tan B)
3 + 15 tan B = 20 − 4 tan B

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
15 tan B + 4 tan B = 20 − 3
19 tan B = 17
17
∴ tan B = 19
1 1
195. If tan 𝐴 = 3 and tan 𝐵 = 2, find the value of 𝐴 + 𝐵.
Solution
tan A+tan B
tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = 1−tan A tan B
1 1
+
3 2
tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = 1 1
1−( )( )
3 2
5
6
tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = 1
1−
6
5
6
tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = 5
6
tan(𝐴 + 𝐵) = 1.0000
𝐴 + 𝐵 = tan−1(1.0000)
∴ 𝐴 + 𝐵 = 45°
196. If 𝐴 + 𝐵 = 45° , then find the value of (1 + tan 𝐴)(1 + tan 𝐵).
Solution
°
Given A + B = 45
tan(A + B) = tan 45°
tan A+tan B
=1
1−tan A tan B
tan A + tan B = 1 − tan A tan B
tan A + tan B + tan A tan B = 1
1 + (tan A + tan B + tan A tan B) = 1 + 1
1 + tan A + tan B + tan A tan B = 2
1 + tan A + tan B (1 + tan A) = 2
(1 + tan A) + tan B (1 + tan A) = 2
∴ (1 + tan A)(1 + tan B) = 2
𝑚 1 𝜋
197. If tan 𝐴 = 𝑚−1 and tan 𝐵 = 2𝑚−1, then prove that 𝐴 − 𝐵 = 4 .
Solution
tan A−tan B
tan(A − B) = 1+tan A tan B
𝑚 1
−
𝑚−1 2𝑚−1
tan(A − B) = 𝑚 1
1+( )( )
𝑚−1 2𝑚−1

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(2𝑚−1)𝑚−(𝑚−1)
(𝑚−1)(2𝑚−1)
tan(A − B) = 𝑚
1+(𝑚−1)(2𝑚−1)
(2𝑚−1)𝑚−(𝑚−1)
(𝑚−1)(2𝑚−1)
tan(A − B) = 1 𝑚
+(𝑚−1)(2𝑚−1)
1
(2𝑚−1)𝑚−(𝑚−1)
(𝑚−1)(2𝑚−1)
tan(A − B) = (𝑚−1)(2𝑚−1)+𝑚
(𝑚−1)(2𝑚−1)
(2𝑚−1)𝑚−(𝑚−1) (𝑚−1)(2𝑚−1)+𝑚
tan(A − B) = (𝑚−1)(2𝑚−1)
÷ (𝑚−1)(2𝑚−1)
(2𝑚−1)𝑚−(𝑚−1) (𝑚−1)(2𝑚−1)
tan(A − B) = (𝑚−1)(2𝑚−1)
× (𝑚−1)(2𝑚−1)+𝑚
(2𝑚−1)𝑚−(𝑚−1)
tan(A − B) = (𝑚−1)(2𝑚−1)+𝑚
2𝑚2 −𝑚−𝑚+1
tan(A − B) = 2𝑚2 −𝑚−2𝑚+1+𝑚
2𝑚2 −2𝑚+1
tan(A − B) = 2𝑚2 −2𝑚+1
tan(A − B) = 1
A − B = tan−1(1.0000)
A − B = 45°
𝜋
∴ 𝐴 − 𝐵 = ; Hence proved.
4
sin 2𝛽
198. If 2 tan 𝛼 = 3 tan 𝛽, then show that, tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = 5−cos 2𝛽 .
Solution
Given 2 tan 𝛼 = 3 tan 𝛽
3
tan 𝛼 = 2 tan 𝛽 − − − −(i)
sin 2𝛽
Required to show that, tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = 5−cos 2𝛽.
Consider LHS.
tan 𝛼−tan 𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = − − − −(ii)
1+tan 𝛼 tan 𝛽
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).
3
tan 𝛽−tan 𝛽
2
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = 3
1+ tan 𝛽 tan 𝛽
2
1
tan 𝛽
2
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = 3
1+ tan2 𝛽
2
tan 𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = 3
2(1+ tan2 𝛽)
2
tan 𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = 2+3 tan2 𝛽

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
sin 𝛽
cos 𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = sin2 𝛽
2+3 2
cos 𝛽
sin 𝛽
cos 𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = 3 sin2 𝛽
2+
cos2 𝛽
sin 𝛽
cos 𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = 2 3 sin2 𝛽
+
1 cos2 𝛽
sin 𝛽
cos 𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = 2 cos2 𝛽+3 sin2 𝛽
cos2 𝛽
sin 𝛽 2 cos2 𝛽+3 sin2 𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = cos 𝛽 ÷ cos2 𝛽
sin 𝛽 cos2 𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = cos 𝛽 × 2 cos2 𝛽+3 sin2 𝛽
sin 𝛽 cos 𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = 2 cos2 𝛽+3 sin2 𝛽
sin 𝛽 cos 𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = 2(1−sin2 𝛽)+3 sin2 𝛽
sin 𝛽 cos 𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = 2−2 sin2 𝛽+3 sin2 𝛽
sin 𝛽 cos 𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) =
2+sin2 𝛽
2 sin 𝛽 cos 𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = (2) ( 2+sin2 𝛽 )
2 sin 𝛽 cos 𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = 4+2 sin2 𝛽
sin 2𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = 4+2(1−cos2 𝛽)
sin 2𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = 4+(2−2 cos2 𝛽)
Note:
cos(2𝛽) = cos(𝛽 + 𝛽) = cos 𝛽 cos 𝛽 − sin 𝛽 sin 𝛽
cos(2𝛽) = cos 2 𝛽 − sin2 𝛽
cos(2𝛽) = cos 2 𝛽 − (1 − cos 2 𝛽)
cos(2𝛽) = cos 2 𝛽 − 1 + cos2 𝛽
cos(2𝛽) = 2 cos2 𝛽 − 1
1 − cos(2𝛽) = 1 − (2 cos2 𝛽 − 1)
1 − cos(2𝛽) = 1 − 2 cos 2 𝛽 + 1
1 − cos(2𝛽) = 2 − 2 cos 2 𝛽
Now

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
sin 2𝛽
tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) =
4+1−cos(2𝛽)
sin 2𝛽
∴ tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = 5−cos 2𝛽; Hence shown.
199. If tan2 𝜃 = 2 tan2 ∅ + 1, then prove that cos 2𝜃 + sin2 ∅ = 0.
Solution
2
We have cos 2𝜃 + sin ∅
cos 2𝜃 + sin2 ∅ = cos(𝜃 + 𝜃) + sin2 ∅
cos 2𝜃 + sin2 ∅ = cos 2 𝜃 − sin2 𝜃 + sin2 ∅
cos2 𝜃−sin2 𝜃 sin2 ∅
cos 2𝜃 + sin2 ∅ = +
1 1
cos2 𝜃−sin2 𝜃 sin2 ∅
cos 2𝜃 + sin2 ∅ = cos2 𝜃+sin2 𝜃 + cos2 ∅+sin2 ∅
cos2 𝜃 sin2 𝜃
− sin2 ∅
cos2 𝜃 cos2 𝜃
cos 2𝜃 + sin2 ∅ = cos 𝜃 sin2 𝜃
2 + cos2 ∅ sin2 ∅
+ +
cos2 𝜃 cos2 𝜃 cos2 ∅ cos2 ∅
1−tan2 𝜃 sin2 ∅
cos 2𝜃 + sin2 ∅ = 1+tan2 𝜃 + 1+tan2 ∅
But tan2 𝜃 = 2 tan2 ∅ + 1
1−(2 tan2 ∅+1) sin2 ∅
cos 2𝜃 + sin2 ∅ = + 1+tan2 ∅
1+2 tan2 ∅+1
1−2 tan2 ∅−1 sin2 ∅
cos 2𝜃 + sin2 ∅ = 1+2 tan2 ∅+1 + 1+tan2 ∅
−2 tan2 ∅ sin2 ∅
cos 2𝜃 + sin2 ∅ = 2+2 tan2 ∅ + 1+tan2 ∅
−2 tan2 ∅ sin2 ∅
cos 2𝜃 + sin2 ∅ = 2(1+tan2 ∅) + 1+tan2 ∅
− tan2 ∅ sin2 ∅
cos 2𝜃 + sin2 ∅ = 1+tan2 ∅ + 1+tan2 ∅
sin2 ∅ tan2 ∅
cos 2𝜃 + sin2 ∅ = 1+tan2 ∅ − 1+tan2 ∅
∴ cos 2𝜃 + sin2 ∅ = 0; Hence proved.
𝑏
200. If tan 𝜃 = 𝑎, prove that, 𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎.
Solution
We have 𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃)
𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎(cos2 𝜃 − sin2 𝜃) + 𝑏(2 sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃)

cos2 𝜃−sin2 𝜃 2 sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃

𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎 ( )+𝑏( )
1 1
cos2 𝜃−sin2 𝜃 2 sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃
𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎 (cos2 𝜃+sin2 𝜃) + 𝑏 (cos2 𝜃+sin2 𝜃 )

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
cos2 𝜃 sin2 𝜃 2 sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃
−
cos2 𝜃 cos2 𝜃 cos2 𝜃
𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎 ( cos 𝜃 sin2 𝜃
2 )+𝑏( cos2 𝜃 sin2 𝜃
)
+ +
cos2 𝜃 cos2 𝜃 cos2 𝜃 cos2 𝜃
1−tan2 𝜃 2 tan 𝜃
𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎 (1+tan2 𝜃) + 𝑏 (1+tan2 𝜃)
𝑏 2 𝑏
1−( ) 2
𝑎 𝑎
𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎 [ 𝑏 2
]+𝑏[ 𝑏 2
]
1+( ) 1+( )
𝑎 𝑎
𝑏2 𝑏
1− 2 2
𝑎 𝑎
𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎 ( 𝑏2
)+𝑏( 𝑏2
)
1+ 2 1+ 2
𝑎 𝑎
1 𝑏2 𝑏
− 2
1 𝑎2 𝑎
𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎 ( 1 𝑏2
) + 𝑏 (1 𝑏2
)
+ +
1 𝑎2 1 𝑎2
𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑏
2
𝑎2 𝑎
𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎 ( 𝑎2 +𝑏2
) + 𝑏 ( 𝑎2 +𝑏 2)
𝑎2 𝑎2
𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑎2 +𝑏2 2𝑏 𝑎2 +𝑏 2
𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎 ( ÷ )+𝑏(𝑎 ÷ )
𝑎2 𝑎2 𝑎2
𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑎2 2𝑏 𝑎2
𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎 ( × 𝑎2 +𝑏2 ) + 𝑏 ( 𝑎 × 𝑎2 +𝑏2 )
𝑎2
𝑎2 −𝑏2 2𝑎𝑏
𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎 (𝑎2 +𝑏2 ) + 𝑏 (𝑎2 +𝑏2 )
1
𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎2 +𝑏2 [𝑎(𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 ) + 𝑏(2𝑎𝑏)]
1
𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎2 +𝑏2 [𝑎(𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 ) + 2𝑎𝑏 2 ]
𝑎
𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎2 +𝑏2 [(𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 ) + 2𝑏 2 ]
𝑎
𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎2 +𝑏2 (𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 + 2𝑏 2 )
𝑎
𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎2 +𝑏2 (𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 )
∴ 𝑎 cos(2𝜃) + 𝑏 sin(2𝜃) = 𝑎; Hence proved.
sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴 𝑝 𝑞 2 −1
201. If sin 𝐵 = 𝑝, cos 𝐵 = 𝑞, prove that tan 𝐴 . tan 𝐵 = 𝑞 (1−𝑝2 ).
Solution
sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴
We have sin 𝐵 = 𝑝, cos 𝐵 = 𝑞
sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴
÷ cos 𝐵 = 𝑝 ÷ 𝑞
sin 𝐵
sin 𝐴 cos 𝐵 𝑝
× cos 𝐴 = 𝑞
sin 𝐵
sin 𝐴 cos 𝐵 𝑝
(cos 𝐴) ( sin 𝐵 ) = 𝑞
tan 𝐴 𝑝
=𝑞
tan 𝐵

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑞 tan 𝐴 = 𝑝 tan 𝐵
𝑞 tan 𝐴 𝑝 tan 𝐵
=
𝑝𝑞 𝑝𝑞
tan 𝐴 tan 𝐵
= =𝜆
𝑝 𝑞
tan 𝐴
=𝜆
𝑝
tan 𝐴 = 𝑝𝜆 − − − −(i)
tan 𝐵
=𝜆
𝑞
tan 𝐵 = 𝑞𝜆 − − − −(ii)
Also,
sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴
= 𝑝, cos 𝐵 = 𝑞
sin 𝐵
sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴
(sin 𝐵) (cos 𝐵) = 𝑝𝑞
sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴
= 𝑝𝑞
sin 𝐵 cos 𝐵
2 sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴
(2) sin 𝐵 cos 𝐵 = 𝑝𝑞
2 sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴
= 𝑝𝑞
2 sin 𝐵 cos 𝐵
2 sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴 ÷ 2 sin 𝐵 cos 𝐵 = 𝑝𝑞
2 sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴 2 sin 𝐵 cos 𝐵
÷ = 𝑝𝑞
1 1
2 sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴 2 sin 𝐵 cos 𝐵
÷ cos2 𝐵+sin2 𝐵 = 𝑝𝑞
cos2 𝐴+sin2 𝐴
2 sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴 2 sin 𝐵 cos 𝐵
cos2 𝐴 cos2 𝐵
cos2 𝐴 sin2 𝐴
÷ cos2 𝐵 sin2 𝐵
= 𝑝𝑞
+ +
cos2 𝐴 cos2 𝐴 cos2 𝐵 cos2 𝐵
2 tan 𝐴 2 tan 𝐵
÷ 1+tan2 𝐵 = 𝑝𝑞
1+tan2 𝐴
2 tan 𝐴 1+tan2 𝐵
× = 𝑝𝑞 − − − −(iii)
1+tan2 𝐴 2 tan 𝐵
Substitute equations (i) and (ii) into equation (iii).
2𝑝𝜆 1+(𝑞𝜆)2
× = 𝑝𝑞
1+(𝑝𝜆)2 2𝑞𝜆
𝑝 1+𝑞2 𝜆2
× = 𝑝𝑞
1+𝑝2 𝜆2 𝑞
1+𝑞 2 𝜆2 𝑝
× 𝑞 = 𝑝𝑞
1+𝑝2 𝜆2
1+𝑞 2 𝜆2 1
×𝑞 =𝑞
1+𝑝2 𝜆2
1+𝑞 2 𝜆2
= 𝑞2
1+𝑝2 𝜆2
1 + 𝑞 𝜆 = 𝑞 2 (1 + 𝑝2 𝜆2 )
2 2

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
1 + 𝑞 2 𝜆2 = 𝑞 2 + 𝑝2 𝑞 2 𝜆2
𝑞 2 𝜆2 − 𝑝2 𝑞 2 𝜆2 = 𝑞 2 − 1
𝜆2 (1 − 𝑝2 )𝑞 2 = 𝑞 2 − 1
(𝑞 2 −1)
𝜆2 = (1−𝑝2 )𝑞2
(𝑞 2 −1)
√𝜆2 = ±√(1−𝑝2 )𝑞2

1 (𝑞 2 −1)
𝜆 = ± 𝑞 √(1−𝑝2) − − − −(iv)
Substitute equation (iv) into equations (i) and (ii).
For equation (i): tan 𝐴 = 𝑝𝜆
𝑝 (𝑞 2 −1)
tan 𝐴 = ± 𝑞 √(1−𝑝2)
For equation (ii): tan 𝐵 = 𝑞𝜆
𝑞 (𝑞 2 −1)
tan 𝐵 = ± 𝑞 √(1−𝑝2)
(𝑞 2 −1)
tan 𝐵 = ±√(1−𝑝2)
Then,
𝑝 (𝑞 2 −1) (𝑞 2 −1)
tan 𝐴 . tan 𝐵 = [± 𝑞 √(1−𝑝2 )] [±√(1−𝑝2)]
𝑝 𝑞 2 −1
∴ tan 𝐴 . tan 𝐵 = 𝑞 (1−𝑝2 ); Hence proved.
202. The diagram shows two triangles.

17 cm 25 cm
8 cm 7 cm
C D
15 cm 24 cm
(a) Show that the triangles are right angled.
(b) Find the sines, cosines and tangents of C and D.
(c) Find:
(i) sin(𝐶 + 𝐷)
(ii) sin(𝐶 − 𝐷)
(iii)cos(𝐶 + 𝐷)
(iv) cos(𝐶 − 𝐷)
(v) tan(𝐶 + 𝐷)

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(vi) tan(𝐶 − 𝐷)
Solution
(a) From Pythagoras theorem
(8 cm)2 + (15 cm)2 = (17 cm)2
64 cm2 + 225 cm2 = 289 cm2
289 cm2 = 289 cm2
Also
(7 cm)2 + (24 cm)2 = (25 cm)2
49 cm2 + 576 cm2 = 625 cm2
625 cm2 = 625 cm2
∴ The triangles are right angled.
(b) From

For C
8
sin 𝐶 = 17
15
cos 𝐶 = 17
8
tan 𝐶 = 15
8 15 8
∴ sin 𝐶 = 17 , cos 𝐶 = 17 and tan 𝐶 = 15.
For D
7
sin 𝐷 = 25
24
cos 𝐷 = 25
7
tan 𝐷 = 24
7 24 7
∴ sin 𝐷 = 25 , cos 𝐷 = 25 and tan 𝐷 = 24.
(c)
(i) sin(𝐶 + 𝐷) = sin C cos D + cos C sin D
8 24 15 7 192 105 297
sin(𝐶 + 𝐷) = (17) (25) + (17) (25) = 425 + 425 = 425
297
∴ sin(𝐶 + 𝐷) = 425
(ii) sin(𝐶 − 𝐷) = sin C cos D − cos C sin D
8 24 15 7 192 105 87
sin(𝐶 − 𝐷) = (17) (25) − (17) (25) = 425 − 425 = 425
87
∴ sin(𝐶 − 𝐷) = 425

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(iii)cos(𝐶 + 𝐷) = cos C cos D − sin C sin D
15 24 8 7 360 56 304
cos(𝐶 + 𝐷) = (17) (25) − (17) (25) = 425 − 425 = 425
304
∴ cos(𝐶 + 𝐷) = 425
(iv) cos(𝐶 − 𝐷) = cos C cos D + sin C sin D
15 24 8 7 360 56 416
cos(𝐶 − 𝐷) = (17) (25) + (17) (25) = 425 + 425 = 425
416
∴ cos(𝐶 − 𝐷) = 425
tan C+tan D
(v) tan(𝐶 + 𝐷) = 1−tan C tan D
8 7 33 33
+ 297
15 24 40 40
tan(𝐶 + 𝐷) = 8 7 = 56 = 38 = 304
1−( )( ) 1− 45
15 24 360
297
∴ tan(𝐶 + 𝐷) = 304
tan C−tan D
(vi) tan(𝐶 − 𝐷) = 1+tan C tan D
8 7 19 19
− 171
15 24 120 120
tan(𝐶 − 𝐷) = 8 7 = 56 = 52 = 208
1+( )( ) 1+
15 24 360 45
171
∴ tan(𝐶 − 𝐷) = 208
203. Prove that (tan 𝜃 − 1)(sin 2𝜃 − 2 cos 2 𝜃) = 2(1 − 2 sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃).
Solution
2
(tan 𝜃 − 1)(sin 2𝜃 − 2 cos 𝜃) = 2(1 − 2 sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃)
Consider the LHS.
sin 𝜃
(tan 𝜃 − 1)(sin 2𝜃 − 2 cos2 𝜃) = ( − 1) [sin(𝜃 + 𝜃) − 2 cos 2 𝜃]
cos 𝜃
sin 𝜃−cos 𝜃
(tan 𝜃 − 1)(sin 2𝜃 − 2 cos 2 𝜃) = ( ) (sin θ cos θ + cos θ sin θ − 2 cos 2 𝜃)
cos 𝜃
sin 𝜃 − cos 𝜃
(tan 𝜃 − 1)(sin 2𝜃 − 2 cos2 𝜃) = ( ) (2 sin θ cos θ − 2 cos 2 𝜃)
cos 𝜃
sin 𝜃−cos 𝜃
(tan 𝜃 − 1)(sin 2𝜃 − 2 cos2 𝜃) = [( )] [2 cos θ (sin θ − cos 𝜃)]
cos 𝜃
(tan 𝜃 − 1)(sin 2𝜃 − 2 cos2 𝜃) = (sin 𝜃 − cos 𝜃)[2(sin θ − cos 𝜃)]
(tan 𝜃 − 1)(sin 2𝜃 − 2 cos2 𝜃) = 2(sin 𝜃 − cos 𝜃)(sin θ − cos 𝜃)
(tan 𝜃 − 1)(sin 2𝜃 − 2 cos2 𝜃) = 2(sin2 θ − sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃 − sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃 + cos2 𝜃)
(tan 𝜃 − 1)(sin 2𝜃 − 2 cos2 𝜃) = 2(sin2 θ − 2 sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃 + cos 2 𝜃)
(tan 𝜃 − 1)(sin 2𝜃 − 2 cos2 𝜃) = 2(sin2 θ + cos 2 𝜃 − 2 sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃)
∴ (tan 𝜃 − 1)(sin 2𝜃 − 2 cos 2 𝜃) = 2(1 − 2 sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃); Hence proved.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
204. An observer in a boat finds that the angle of elevation of the top of a
tower which is on a cliff is 𝛼 and that of the top of the cliff is 𝛽. If the height
ℎ tan 𝛽
of the tower is h and that of the cliff is H, show that 𝐻 = tan 𝛼−tan 𝛽.
Solution
Let QR be the tower, PQ be the cliff, O be the point of observation and x be
the horizontal distace from the boat to the cliff.
R
ℎ
Q

𝐻
𝛼𝛽
O 𝑥 P
𝐻
tan 𝛽 = 𝑥
𝐻
𝑥 = tan 𝛽 − − − −(i)
ℎ+𝐻
tan 𝛼 = 𝑥
ℎ + 𝐻 = 𝑥 tan 𝛼
ℎ+𝐻
𝑥 = tan 𝛼 − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).
ℎ+𝐻 𝐻
= tan 𝛽
tan 𝛼
(ℎ + 𝐻) tan 𝛽 = 𝐻 tan 𝛼
ℎ tan 𝛽 + 𝐻 tan 𝛽 = 𝐻 tan 𝛼
𝐻 tan 𝛼 − 𝐻 tan 𝛽 = ℎ tan 𝛽
𝐻(tan 𝛼 − tan 𝛽) = ℎ tan 𝛽
𝐻(tan 𝛼−tan 𝛽) ℎ tan 𝛽
(tan 𝛼−tan 𝛽)
= tan 𝛼−tan 𝛽
ℎ tan 𝛽
∴ 𝐻 = tan 𝛼−tan 𝛽; Hence shown.
205. A tower of height ‘b’ subtends an angle 𝛼 at a point O on the level of the
foot of the tower and at a distance ‘a’ from the foot of the tower. A pole
mounted on the tower subtends angle 𝛽 at O and its height is h.
(a) Show that:
(i) ℎ + 𝑏 = 𝑎 tan(𝛼 + 𝛽)
(ii) ℎ = 𝑎[tan(𝛼 + 𝛽) − tan 𝛼]

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑏(𝑎2 +𝑏 2 )
(b) If 𝛼 = 𝛽, show that ℎ =
𝑎2 −𝑏2
Solution
Let QR be the pole and PQ be the tower, then consider the figure drawn
below.
R
ℎ
Q

𝛽 𝑏
𝛼
O 𝑎 P
(a)
(i) From,

𝑏+ℎ
tan(𝛼 + 𝛽) = 𝑎
∴ ℎ + 𝑏 = 𝑎 tan(𝛼 + 𝛽); Hence shown.
𝑏
(ii) tan 𝛼 = 𝑎
𝑏 = 𝑎 tan 𝛼 − − − −(i)
ℎ + 𝑏 = 𝑎 tan(𝛼 + 𝛽)
ℎ = 𝑎 tan(𝛼 + 𝛽) − 𝑏 − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).
ℎ = 𝑎 tan(𝛼 + 𝛽) − 𝑎 tan 𝛼
∴ ℎ = 𝑎[tan(𝛼 + 𝛽) − tan 𝛼]; Hence shown.
𝑏+ℎ
(b) tan(𝛼 + 𝛽) =
𝑎
But 𝛼 = 𝛽
𝑏+ℎ
tan(𝛼 + 𝛼) = 𝑎
tan 𝛼+tan 𝛼 𝑏+ℎ
=
1−tan 𝛼 tan 𝛼 𝑎
2 tan 𝛼 𝑏+ℎ
= − − − −(i)
1−tan2 𝛼 𝑎
𝑏 = 𝑎 tan 𝛼
𝑏
tan 𝛼 = 𝑎 − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (ii) into equation (i).

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑏
2( ) 𝑏+ℎ
𝑎
𝑏 2
=
1−( ) 𝑎
𝑎
2𝑏
𝑎 𝑏+ℎ
𝑏2
=
1− 2 𝑎
𝑎
2𝑏
𝑎 𝑏+ℎ
𝑎2 −𝑏2
= 𝑎
𝑎2
2𝑏 𝑎2 −𝑏 2 𝑏+ℎ
÷ =
𝑎 𝑎2 𝑎
2𝑏 𝑎2 𝑏+ℎ
× =
𝑎 𝑎2 −𝑏 2 𝑎
2𝑎𝑏 𝑏+ℎ
=
𝑎2 −𝑏2 𝑎
(𝑏 + ℎ)(𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 ) = 𝑎(2𝑎𝑏)
𝑎2 𝑏 − 𝑏 3 + 𝑎2 ℎ − 𝑏 2 ℎ = 2𝑎2 𝑏
𝑎2 ℎ − 𝑏 2 ℎ = 2𝑎2 𝑏 − 𝑎2 𝑏 + 𝑏 3
𝑎2 ℎ − 𝑏 2 ℎ = 𝑎2 𝑏 + 𝑏 3
ℎ(𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 ) = 𝑏(𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 )
ℎ(𝑎2 −𝑏2 ) 𝑏(𝑎2 +𝑏2 )
(𝑎2 −𝑏2 )
= (𝑎2 −𝑏2 )
𝑏(𝑎2 +𝑏2 )
∴ℎ= ; Hence shown.
𝑎2 −𝑏2
206. From the top and bottom of a wall with height H, the angles of elevation
of the top of a tower are 𝛼 and 𝛽. If h is the height of the tower, show that
𝐻 tan 𝛽
ℎ = tan 𝛽−tan 𝛼.
Solution
Let AB be the wall, CD be the tower and x be the horizontal distance between
the wall and the tower then, consider the figure below.
D

ℎ−𝐻

A 𝛼 ℎ

𝐻
𝛽
B C
𝑥

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
From,

ℎ
tan 𝛽 = 𝑥
ℎ = 𝑥 tan 𝛽 − − − −(i)
ℎ−𝐻
tan 𝛼 = 𝑥
ℎ − 𝐻 = 𝑥 tan 𝛼
ℎ = 𝐻 + 𝑥 tan 𝛼 − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).
𝑥 tan 𝛽 = 𝐻 + 𝑥 tan 𝛼
𝑥 tan 𝛽 − 𝑥 tan 𝛼 = 𝐻
𝑥(tan 𝛽 − tan 𝛼) = 𝐻
𝑥(tan 𝛽−tan 𝛼) 𝐻
(tan 𝛽−tan 𝛼)
= tan 𝛽−tan 𝛼
𝐻
𝑥 = tan 𝛽−tan 𝛼 − − − −(iii)
Substitute equation (iii) into equation (i).
𝐻
ℎ = (tan 𝛽−tan 𝛼) tan 𝛽
𝐻 tan 𝛽
∴ ℎ = tan 𝛽−tan 𝛼; Hence shown.
207. AB is a vertical tower. The point A is on the ground and C is the middle
point of AB. The part CB subtend an angle 𝛼 at a point P on the ground. If
𝐴𝑃 = 𝑛𝐴𝐵, show that 𝑛 = (2𝑛2 + 1) tan 𝛼.
Solution
Consider the figure below.
B

𝛼
𝛽
P 𝑛𝐴𝐵 A

Let ∠APC = 𝛽.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝐴𝐵 = 𝐴𝐶 + 𝐶𝐵
But 𝐴𝐶 = 𝐶𝐵
𝐴𝐵 = 𝐴𝐶 + 𝐴𝐶
𝐴𝐵 = 2𝐴𝐶 − − − −(i)
𝐴𝑃 = 𝑛𝐴𝐵 − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).
𝐴𝑃 = 𝑛(2𝐴𝐶)
𝐴𝑃 = 2𝑛𝐴𝐶 − − − −(iii)
𝐴𝐶
tan 𝛽 = 𝐴𝑃 − − − −(iv)
Substitute equation (iii) into equation (iv).
𝐴𝐶
tan 𝛽 = 2𝑛𝐴𝐶
1
tan 𝛽 = 2𝑛 − − − −(v)
In ∆ABP
𝐴𝐵
tan(𝛼 + 𝛽) = 𝐴𝑃 − − − −(vi)
Substitute equations (i) and (iii) into equation (vi).
2𝐴𝐶
tan(𝛼 + 𝛽) = 2𝑛𝐴𝐶
1
tan(𝛼 + 𝛽) = 𝑛
tan 𝛼+tan 𝛽 1
= 𝑛 − − − −(vii)
1−tan 𝛼 tan 𝛽
Substitute equation (v) into equation (vii).
1
tan 𝛼+ 1
2𝑛
1 =𝑛
1− tan 𝛼
2𝑛
tan 𝛼 1
+ 1
1 2𝑛
1 tan 𝛼 =𝑛
−
1 2𝑛
2𝑛 tan 𝛼+1
2𝑛 1
2𝑛−tan 𝛼 =
𝑛
2𝑛
2𝑛 tan 𝛼+1 2𝑛−tan 𝛼 1
÷ =𝑛
2𝑛 2𝑛
2𝑛 tan 𝛼+1 2𝑛 1
× 2𝑛−tan 𝛼 = 𝑛
2𝑛
2𝑛 tan 𝛼+1 1
=𝑛
2𝑛−tan 𝛼
𝑛(2𝑛 tan 𝛼 + 1) = 2𝑛 − tan 𝛼
2𝑛2 tan 𝛼 + 𝑛 = 2𝑛 − tan 𝛼
2𝑛2 tan 𝛼 + tan 𝛼 = 2𝑛 − 𝑛
𝑛 = 2𝑛2 tan 𝛼 + tan 𝛼

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
∴ 𝑛 = (2𝑛2 + 1) tan 𝛼; Hence shown.
208. A chimney of 20 m high standing vertically on the top of a building,
1
subtends an angle of tan−1 (6) at a distance of 70 m from the foot of the
building. Find the height of the building.
Solution
Let QR be the chimney, PQ be the vertical tower and O be the point of
observation, then consider the figure below.
R
20 m
Q

𝜃 ℎ
𝛼
O 70 m P
Also let ∠POQ = 𝛼, ∠QOR = 𝜃 and PQ = ℎ.
1
𝜃 = tan−1 (6)
1
tan 𝜃 = − − − −(i)
6
From,

ℎ
tan 𝛼 = 70 − − − −(ii)
ℎ+20
tan(𝜃 + 𝛼) = 70
tan 𝜃+tan 𝛼 ℎ+20
= − − − −(iii)
1−tan 𝜃 tan 𝛼 70
Substitute equations (i) and (ii) into equation (iii).
1 ℎ
+ ℎ+20
6 70
1 ℎ =
1−( × ) 70
6 70
1 ℎ
+ ℎ+20
6 70
1 ℎ =
− 70
1 420
70+6ℎ
420 ℎ+20
420−ℎ =70
420
70+6ℎ 420−ℎ ℎ+20
÷ =
420 420 70

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
70+6ℎ 420 ℎ+20
× =
420 420−ℎ 70
70+6ℎ ℎ+20
=
420−ℎ 70
70(70 + 6ℎ) = (420 − ℎ)(ℎ + 20)
4900 + 420ℎ = 420ℎ + 8400 − ℎ2 − 20ℎ
4900 + 420ℎ = 400ℎ + 8400 − ℎ2
ℎ2 − 400ℎ − 8400 + 4900 + 420ℎ = 0
ℎ2 + 20ℎ − 3500 = 0
−𝑏±√𝑏 2 −4𝑎𝑐
ℎ= 2𝑎
−20±√(20)2 −4(1)(−3500)
ℎ= 2(1)
−20±√400+14000
ℎ= 2
−20±√14400
ℎ= 2
−20±120
ℎ= 2
−20+120 −20−120
ℎ= or ℎ =
2 2
100 −140
ℎ= or ℎ =
2 2
ℎ = 50 or ℎ = −70
∴ The height of the building is 50 m.
Alternatively
Let QR be the chimney, PQ be the vertical tower and O be the point of
observation, then consider the figure below.
R
20 m
Q

𝜃 ℎ
∅
𝛼
O 70 m P
Also let ∠POQ = 𝛼, ∠QOR = 𝜃, ∠POR = ∅ and PQ = ℎ.
1
𝜃 = tan−1 (6)
1
tan 𝜃 = 6 − − − −(i)
From,

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

ℎ
tan 𝛼 = 70 − − − −(ii)
ℎ+20
tan ∅ = − − − −(iii)
70
𝜃 =∅−𝛼
tan 𝜃 = tan(∅ − 𝛼)
tan ∅−tan 𝛼
tan 𝜃 = 1+tan ∅ tan 𝛼 − − − −(iv)
Substitute equations (i), (ii), and (iii) into equation (iv).
ℎ+20 ℎ
1 −
70 70
= ℎ+20 ℎ
6 1+( × )
70 70
ℎ+20 ℎ
1 −
70 70
= 1 ℎ2 +20ℎ
6 +
1 4900
ℎ+20−ℎ
1 70
= 4900+ℎ2 +20ℎ
6
4900
20
1 70
= 4900+ℎ2 +20ℎ
6
4900
2
1 7
= 4900+ℎ2 +20ℎ
6
4900
1 2 ℎ2 +20ℎ+4900
=7÷
6 4900
1 2 4900
= 7 × ℎ2 +20ℎ+4900
6
1 1400
= ℎ2 +20ℎ+4900
6
ℎ2 + 20ℎ + 4900 = 8400
ℎ2 + 20ℎ + 4900 − 8400 = 0
ℎ2 + 20ℎ − 3500 = 0
−𝑏±√𝑏 2 −4𝑎𝑐
ℎ= 2𝑎
−20±√(20)2 −4(1)(−3500)
ℎ= 2(1)
−20±√400+14000
ℎ= 2
−20±√14400
ℎ= 2
−20±120
ℎ= 2

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
−20+120 −20−120
ℎ= or ℎ =
2 2
100 −140
ℎ= or ℎ =
2 2
ℎ = 50 or ℎ = −70
∴ The height of the building is 50 m.
209. A flagstaff standing on a tower of height 10 m substends an angle whose
1
tangent is 8 at a point on horizontal ground. If the horizontal distance from
the point to the tower is 24 m, find the height of the flagstaff.
Solution
Let QR be the flagstaff, PQ be the tower and O be the point of observation,
then consider the figure below.
R
ℎ
Q

𝜃 10 m

𝛼
O 24 m P
Also let ∠POQ = 𝛼, ∠QOR = 𝜃 and QR = ℎ.
From,

ℎ
tan 𝛼 = 24 − − − −(i)
1
tan 𝜃 = 8 − − − −(ii)
ℎ+10
tan(𝜃 + 𝛼) = 24
tan 𝜃+tan 𝛼 ℎ+10
= − − − −(iii)
1−tan 𝜃 tan 𝛼 24
Substitute equations (i) and (ii) into equation (iii).
1 ℎ
+ ℎ+10
8 24
1 ℎ =
1−( × ) 24
8 24
1 ℎ
+ ℎ+10
8 24
1 ℎ =
− 24
1 192
24+8ℎ
192 ℎ+10
192−ℎ = 24
192

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
24+8ℎ 192−ℎ ℎ+10
÷ =
192 192 24
24+8ℎ 192 ℎ+10
× 192−ℎ =
192 24
24+8ℎ ℎ+10
=
192−ℎ 24
24(24 + 8ℎ) = (192 − ℎ)(ℎ + 10)
576 + 192ℎ = 192ℎ + 1920 − ℎ2 − 10ℎ
576 + 192ℎ = 1920 − 182ℎ − ℎ2
ℎ2 + 182ℎ + 192ℎ + 576 − 1920 = 0
ℎ2 + 374ℎ − 1344 = 0
−𝑏±√𝑏 2 −4𝑎𝑐
ℎ= 2𝑎
−374±√(374)2 −4(1)(−1344)
ℎ= 2(1)
−374±√139876+5376
ℎ= 2
−374±√145252
ℎ= 2
−374±381.12
ℎ= 2
−374+381.12 −374−381.12
ℎ= or ℎ =
2 2
7.12 −755.12
ℎ= or ℎ =
2 2
ℎ = 3.56 or ℎ = −377.56
Alternatively
Let QR be the flagstaff, PQ be the tower and O be the point of observation,
then consider the figure below.
R
ℎ
Q

10 m
𝜃
𝛼
O 24 m P
Also let ∠POQ = 𝛼, ∠QOR = 𝜃, ∠POR = ∅ and QR = ℎ.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
3 3
210. The upper th portion of a vertical pole subtends an angle tan−1 ( ) at a
4 5
point in the horizontal plane through its foot and at a distance 40 m from the
foot. If the pole is less than 100 m high, find the possible height of of the
pole.
Solution
Let QR be the upper portion, PQ be the lower portion and O be the point of
observation, then consider the figure below.
R

3
ℎ
4

Q
𝛽 1
𝛼 ℎ
4
O 40 m P
Also let ∠POQ = 𝛼 and ∠QOR = 𝛽.
3
𝛽 = tan−1 (5)
3
tan 𝛽 =
5
From,

1
ℎ
4
tan 𝛼 = 40
ℎ
tan 𝛼 = 160
3 1
ℎ+ ℎ
tan(𝛼 + 𝛽) = 4 4
40
ℎ
tan(𝛼 + 𝛽) = 40
tan 𝛼+tan 𝛽 ℎ
= 40
1−tan 𝛼 tan 𝛽
ℎ 3
+ ℎ
160 5
ℎ 3 = 40
1−( × )
160 5
ℎ 3
+ ℎ
160 5
3ℎ =
1− 40
800
5ℎ+480
800 ℎ
800−3ℎ =40
800

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
5ℎ+480 800−3ℎ ℎ
÷ =
800 800 40
5ℎ+480 800 ℎ
× 800−3ℎ = 40
800
5ℎ+480 ℎ
= 40
800−3ℎ
40(5ℎ + 480) = ℎ(800 − 3ℎ)
200ℎ + 19200 = 800ℎ − 3ℎ2
3ℎ2 + 200ℎ − 800ℎ + 19200 = 0
3ℎ2 − 600ℎ + 19200 = 0
3(ℎ2 − 200ℎ + 6400) = 0
3 0
(ℎ2 − 200ℎ + 6400) =
3 3
2
ℎ − 200ℎ + 6400 = 0
−𝑏±√𝑏 2 −4𝑎𝑐
ℎ= 2𝑎
−(−200)±√(−200)2 −4(1)(6400)
ℎ= 2(1)
200±√40000−25600
ℎ= 2
200±√14400
ℎ= 2
200±120
ℎ= 2
200+120 200−120
ℎ= or ℎ =
2 2
320 80
ℎ= or ℎ =
2 2
ℎ = 160 or ℎ = 40
∴ The possible height of of the pole is 40 m.
Alternatively
Let QR be the upper portion, PQ be the lower portion and O be the point of
observation, then consider the figure below.
R

3
ℎ
4

Q
𝛽 ∅ 1
𝛼 ℎ
4
O 40 m P
Also let ∠POQ = 𝛼, ∠QOR = 𝛽 and ∠POR = ∅

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
3
𝛽 = tan−1 ( )
5
3
tan 𝛽 = 5 − − − −(i)
From,

1
ℎ
4
tan 𝛼 = 40
ℎ
tan 𝛼 = 160 − − − −(ii)
1 3
ℎ+ ℎ
4 4
tan ∅ = 40
ℎ
tan ∅ = 40 − − − −(iii)
𝛽 =∅−𝛼
tan 𝛽 = tan(∅ − 𝛼)
tan ∅−tan 𝛼
tan 𝛽 = 1+tan ∅ tan 𝛼 − − − −(iv)
Substitute equations (i), (ii), and (iii) into equation (iv) above.
ℎ ℎ
3 −
40 160
= ℎ ℎ
5 1+( × )
40 160
ℎ ℎ
3 −
40 160
= 1 ℎ2
5 +
1 6400
4ℎ−ℎ
3 160
= 6400+ℎ2
5
6400
3ℎ
3 160
5
= 6400+ℎ2
6400
3 3ℎ 6400+ℎ2
= 160 ÷
5 6400
3 3ℎ 6400
= 160 × 6400+ℎ2
5
3 120ℎ
= 6400+ℎ2
5
3 3(40ℎ)
= 6400+ℎ2
5
1 40ℎ
5
= 6400+ℎ2
ℎ2 + 6400 = 200ℎ
ℎ2 − 200ℎ + 6400 = 0
−𝑏±√𝑏 2 −4𝑎𝑐
ℎ=
2𝑎

Noel Hitler Matinde 0716353904/0687334179

 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
−(−200)±√(−200)2 −4(1)(6400)
ℎ= 2(1)
200±√40000−25600
ℎ= 2
200±√14400
ℎ= 2
200±120
ℎ= 2
200+120 200−120
ℎ= or ℎ =
2 2
320 80
ℎ= or ℎ =
2 2
ℎ = 160 or ℎ = 40
∴ The possible height of of the pole is 40 m.
211. The lower 24 m portion of a 50 m tall tower is painted green and the
remaining portion red. What is the distance of a portion on the ground from
the base of the tower where the two different portions of the tower subtend
equal angles?
Solution
Let AC be the tower, AB be the portion painted red, BC be the portion painted
green, D be the point of observation, 𝛼 be the angle subtended by each portion
and x be the distance of the portion on the ground from the base of the tower
where the two different portions of the tower subtend equal angles then,
consider the figure below.
A

26 m
50 m
B

24 m
𝛼
𝛼
C 𝑥 D
In ∆BCD,
From,

24
tan 𝛼 = − − − −(i)
𝑥
In ∆ACD,

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
50
tan(𝛼 + 𝛼) =
𝑥
tan 𝛼+tan 𝛼 50
=
1−tan 𝛼 tan 𝛼 𝑥
2 tan 𝛼 50
=
1−tan2 𝛼 𝑥
2𝑥 tan 𝛼 = 50(1 − tan2 𝛼)
2𝑥 tan 𝛼 = 50 − 50 tan2 𝛼
50 tan2 𝛼 + 2𝑥 tan 𝛼 − 50 = 0 − − − −(ii)
Substitute equation (i) into equation (ii).
24 2 24
50 ( 𝑥 ) + 2𝑥 ( 𝑥 ) − 50 = 0
576
50 ( 𝑥 2 ) + 48 − 50 = 0
28800
−2=0
𝑥2
28800
𝑥2 ( − 2) = 𝑥 2 (0)
𝑥2
28800 − 2𝑥 2 = 0
2𝑥 2 = 28800
𝑥 2 = 14400
𝑥 2 = (120)2
𝑥 = 120
∴ The required distance is 120 m.
212. Where can we apply the competencies developed in trigonometry?
Answer
We can apply the competencies developed in trigonometry in various real life
situations such as in solving problems related to astronomy, navigation, and
building construction.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION
1. If:
4
(a) cos 𝜃 = 0.6 and sin 𝜃 = 0.8, find tan 𝜃. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 3)
8 15 8
(b) sin 𝜃 = 17 and cos 𝜃 = 17, find tan 𝜃. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 15)
7 24 7
(c) tan 𝜃 = 24 and cos 𝜃 = 25, find sin 𝜃. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 25)
5 5 12
(d) tan 𝜃 = 12 and sin 𝜃 = 13, find cos 𝜃. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 13)
80 80 9
(e) tan 𝜃 = and sin 𝜃 = , find cos 𝜃. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: )
9 81 81
2. Sketch a right – angled triangle ABC such that B = 90° , AB = 5 cm and
BC = 12 cm.
(a) Determine the length AC. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 13 cm)
12 12 12
(b) Evaluate sin A , cos C and tan A. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: 13 , 13 and )
5
°
3. Sketch a triangle XYZ such that ∠Y = 90 , XY = 9 cm and YZ = 40 cm.
9 40 40 9
Determine sin 𝑍 , cos 𝑍 , tan 𝑋 and cos 𝑋. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: 41 , 41 , and )
9 41
15 8 8
4. If cos A = 17, find sin A and tan A, in fraction form. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 17 and )
15
15 15 112
5. If tan 𝑋 = 112, find sin 𝑋 and cos 𝑋, in fraction form.(𝐀𝐧𝐬: 113 and )
113
7 7 24
6. If tan 𝜃 = 24, find sin 𝜃 and cos 𝜃, in fraction form. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 25 and )
25
7. Let A be the acute angle of a right angled triangle ABC such that
̂ = 90° and cos Ĉ = 5 . Find the value of sin A
B ̂ . (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 5 )
13 13
3
8. If cos 𝜃 equal 5, find the values of other ratios.
4 4
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: sin 𝜃 = 5 and tan 𝜃 = 3)
1
9. Suppose 𝜃 is an angle whose sine is 3, find the numerical magnitude of the
2√2 √2
other trigonometrical ratios. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: cos 𝜃 = and tan 𝜃 = )
3 4
3
10. If tan A = 4 and A is acute angle, find cos A , sin A and hence verify the
4 3
identity cos2 A + sin2 A = 1. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: 5 , 5)
11. Given that 𝑥 = 2 cos 𝜃 and 𝑦 = 3 sin 𝜃, write an expression relating x and y
only. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: 9𝑥 2 + 4𝑦 2 = 36)
12. If ∠A and ∠B are acute angles such that cos A = cos B, then show that
∠A = ∠B.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
1 1
13. Given that cos 𝜃 ( − ) = 𝑟 tan 𝜃, find the value of r.
1−sin 𝜃 1+sin 𝜃
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 𝑟 = 2)
14. Prove the validity of each of the following trigonometric identities.
(a) (2 cos 𝑥 + sin 𝑥)2 + (cos 𝑥 − 2 sin 𝑥)2 = 5
1
(b) cos 𝑥 + sin 𝑥 tan 𝑥 = cos 𝑥
sin 𝜃 1+cos 𝜃 2
(c) + = sin 𝜃
1+cos 𝜃 sin 𝜃
15. Prove the validity of each of the following trigonometric identities.
sin 𝑥 sin 𝑥
(a) − 1+sin 𝑥 = 2 tan2 𝑥
1−sin 𝑥
(b) cos θ + 3 sin2 θ = 3 − 2 cos2 θ
2
cos 𝑥 1−sin 𝑥 2
(c) + = cos 𝑥
1−sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥
1+sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥
(d) = 1−sin 𝑥
cos 𝑥
16. If sin 𝜃 and cos 𝜃 are the roots of the equation 𝑎𝑥 2 − 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0, find the
relation satisfied by a, b and c. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 𝑎2 − 𝑏 2 + 2𝑎𝑐 = 0)
17. Find all angles, 0° ≤ 𝜃 < 360° , for which:
√2
(a) sin 𝜃 = (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 45° , 135° )
2
(b) cos 𝜃 = −1 (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 180° )
(c) sin 𝜃 = −0.6180 (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 218° 10′ , 321° 50′ or 218.17° , 321.83° )
(d) cos 𝜃 = 0.5125 (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 59° 10′ , 300° 50′ or 59.17° , 300.83° )
(e) tan 𝜃 = −1.5301 (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 123° 10′ , 303° 10′ or 123.17° , 303.17° )
18. Solve each of the following trigonometric equations in the range given.
(a) cos 𝜃 = 3 sin 𝜃 0° ≤ 𝜃 < 360° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 18.4° , 198.4° )
(b) 4 cos 𝜃 − 7 sin 𝜃 = 0 0° ≤ 𝜃 < 360° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 29.7° , 209.7° )
(c) 5 sin 𝜃 + 6 cos 𝜃 = 0 0° ≤ 𝜃 < 360° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 129.8° , 309.8° )
sin 𝜃−cos 𝜃
(d) =2 0° ≤ 𝜃 < 360° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 71.6° , 251.6° )
cos 𝜃
19. Solve the equation tan 𝜃 = −0.6 giving all solutions in the interval
−180° to 180° correct to two decimal places.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: −30.96° and 149.04° )
20. Find the exact values of the sine, cosine, and tangent of:
1 √3 √3
(a) 150° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: 2 , − ,− 3 )
2
√2 √2
(b) 225° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: − , − 2 , 1)
2
√3 1
(c) 300° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: − , , −√3)
2 2

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
√3 1
(d) −120° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: − , − , √3)
2 2
1 √3 √3
(e) −210° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: ,− 2 ,− 3 )
2
√2 √2
(f) −315° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: , , 1)
2 2
21. Use the appropriate tables to verify the function has the value stated.
(a) sin 155° 13′ = 0.4192
(b) cos 104° 38′ = −0.2526
(c) tan 305° 24′ = −1.4071
(d) sin 114° 18′ = 0.9114
(e) cos 166° 51′ = −0.9738
(f) tan 129.48° = −1.2140
(g) sin 110.32° = 0.9378
(h) cos 262.35° = −0.1332
(i) tan 211.84° = 0.6210
(j) cos 314.92° = 0.7061
22. In the figure below, BC ̅̅̅̅ = 12 cm, ∠ACB = 40° , and ∠BAD = 60° . BCD is a
straight line and ̅̅
CE̅̅ is parallel to ̅̅̅̅
BA.
A

60°
E

40° D
B 12 cm
C
Calculate
(a) The length of:
(i) ̅̅̅̅
AB (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 10.07 cm)
(ii) ̅̅̅̅
CD (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 5.44 cm)
(b) The size of angle CBE. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 14.67° )
23. Each spring Kelvin uses his vacation time to ready his lake property for the
summer. He wants to run a new safety line from point B on the shore to the
corner of the anchored diving raft. The current safety line, which runs
perpendicular to the shore line to point A, is 40 ft long. He estimates the angle
from B to the corner of the raft to be 50° (see the figure below).

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

Approximately how much rope does he need for the new safety line if he
allows 5 ft of rope at each end to fasten the rope? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 62.2 ft)
24. Find the perimeter of an isosceles triangle whose base is 40 cm and whose base
angle is 70° . (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 157 cm)
25. Find the perimeter of a regular octagon inscribed in a circle of radius 150 cm.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 918.48 cm)
26. A kite is flying at an inclination of 60° with the horizontal. If the length of the
thread is 120 m, find the height of the kite. Leave your answer in a surd form.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 60√3 m)
27. The angle of elevation of the top of a tower from a point which is at a distance
of 20 metres from bottom of the tower is 45° . Find the height of the tower.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 20 metres)
28. A tree is broken by wind, its upper part touches the ground at a point 10 m
𝜋
from the foot of the tree and makes an angle 4 with the ground. Find the whole
length of the tree. Leave your answer in a surd form. [𝐀𝐧𝐬: 10(√2 + 1) m]
29. Some portion of a 20 m long tree is broken by the wind and the top struck the
ground at an angle of 30° . Find the height of the point where the tree is broken.
20
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: m)
3
30. A vertical tower stands on level ground. At a point 105 m from the foot of the
tower the angle of elevation of the top is 19° . Find the height of the tower.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 36.15 m)
31. An electricity pylon stands on horizontal ground. At a point 80 m from the
base of the pylon, the angle of elevation of the top of the pylon is 23° . Calculate
the height of the pylon to the nearest metre. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 34 m)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
32. The seattle space needle casts a 67 m shadow. If the angle of elevation from
the tip of the shadow to the top of the space needle is 70° , how tall is the space
needle? Round to the nearest metre. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 184 m)
33. Kelvin’s kite is flying above a field at the end of 65 m of string. If the angle of
elevation to the kite measures 70° , how high is the kite above Kelvin’s head?
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 61.1 m)
34. A vertical flagstaff stands on a horizontal plane; from a point distant 150 feet
from its foot, the angle of elevation of its top is found to be 30° ; find the height
of the flagstaff. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 86.6 feet)
35. If the angle of elevation of the top of a vertical 30 m high aerial is 32° , how
far is it to the aerial? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 48 m)
36. The stringer, that supports the stairs, makes an angle of 50° with the floor. It
reaches 3.2 m up the wall. How far is the base of the stringer from the wall?
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 2.7 m)
37. A ladder leans against the side of a building with its foot 12 ft from the
building. If it makes an angle of 70° with the ground,
(a) How far from the ground is the top of the ladder? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 33 ft)
(b) How long is the ladder? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 35 ft)
38. A surveyor who is standing at a point 168 m horizontally distant from the foot
of a tall tower measures the angle of elevation of the top of the tower as 38.25° .
Find the height above the ground of the top of the tower correct to three
significant figures. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 132 m)
39. At a point 182 m from the foot of a tower on a level road, the angle of elevation
of the top of the tower is 36° 44′ . Find the height of the tower.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 135.8 m)
40. The upper part of a tree broken over by the wind makes an angle of 30° with
the ground, and the distance from the root to the point where the top of the tree
touches the ground is 50 feet; what was the height of the tree?
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 86.6 ft)
41. An electrician has to repair an electric fault on a pole of height 5 m. She needs
to reach a point 1.3 m below the top of the pole to undertake the repair work.
(a) What should be the length of the ladder that she should use which, when
inclined at an angle of 60° to the horizontal, would enable her to reach the
required position? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 4.28 m)
(b) How far from the foot of the pole should she place the foot of the ladder?
(Take √3 = 1.73) (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 2.14 m)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
42. To find the width of a river, a surveyor set up his surveying equipment at C on
one bank and sighted across to a point B on the opposite bank; then, turning
through an angle of 90° , he laid off a distance CA = 225 m. Finally, setting
the equipment at A, he measured ∠CAB as 48° 20′ . Find the width of the river.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 253 m)
43. A man 1.6 m tall observes the angle of elevation of the top of a spire to be 43° .
If he is standing 28 m from the foot of the spire, calculate the height of the
spire. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 27.7 m)
44. An observer 1.5 m tall is 28.5 m away from a chimney. The angle of elevation
of the top of the chimney from her eyes is 45° . What is the height of the
chimney? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 30 m)
45. A man whose eye level is 1.5 m above the ground observes the angle of
elevation of a tower to be 60° . If the distance of the man from the tower is 10
m, find the height of the tower. Leave your answer in a surd form.
[𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: (1.5 + 10√3) m]
46. Two building with flat roofs are 60 m apart. From the roof of the shorter
building, 40 m in height, the angle of elevation to the edge of the roof of the
taller building is 40° . How high is the taller building? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 90.3 m)
47. The shadow of the pole is equal to the height of the pole. Find the elevation of
the sun. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 45° )
48. A tower is 100√3 m high. Find the angle of elevation of its top from a point
100 m away from its foot. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 60° )
49. The lengths of a rectangular garden are 163 m long and 109 m wide. Find the
angles made by a canal and the edges if the canal cuts the garden diagonally.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 33° 46′ )
50. A ladder 18 m long rests against vertical wall. Find the inclination of the ladder
to the horizontal if the foot of the ladder is 8.5 m from the wall.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 61° 49′ )
51. What is the angle of elevation of the sun when the length of the shadow of a
pole is √3 times the height of the pole? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 30° )
52. You sight a rock climber on a cliff at a 32° angle of elevation. Your eye level
is 6 ft above the ground and you are 1,000 ft from the base of the cliff. What
is the approximate height of the rock climber from the ground? (Ans: 631 ft)
53. An electric post erected vertically is 20 m from point P on the same level
ground. The angle of elevation of the top, T, of the post from P is 30° . Given

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
that S is the mid point of the post, calculate the angle of elevation of S from P.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 16.1° )
54. Two poles of heights 18 m and 7 m are erected on a ground. The length of the
wire fastened at their tops is 22 m. Find the angle made by the wire with the
horizontal. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 30° )
55. Show that if the height of a tower and the distance of the point of observation
from its foot, both are increased by 10%, then the angle of elevation of its top
remains unchanged.
56. Ants can hear each other up to a range of 2 m. An ant A, 1 m from a wall sees
her friend B about to be eaten by a spider. If the angle of elevation of B from
A is 62° , will the spider have a meal or not? (Assume B escapes if he hears A
calling). (Answer: Yes)
57. An airplane flying at an altitude of 6 miles is on a flight path that passes
directly over an observer (see figure). Let 𝜃 be the angle of elevation from the
observer to the plane.

Find the distance from the observer to the plane when:

(a) 𝜃 = 30° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 12 mi)
° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 6 mi)
(b) 𝜃 = 90
° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 6.93 mi)
(c) 𝜃 = 120
58. Two men are on opposite side of a tower. They measure the angles of elevation
of the top of the tower 45° and 30° respectively. If the height of the tower is
40 m, find the distance between the men. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 109.28 m)
59. On walking 50 m towards the base of a tower, the angle of elevation of the top
of the tower changes from 30° to 45° . Find the height of the tower. Leave your
answer in a surd form. [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 25(√3 + 1) m]
60. Two buildings are in front of each other on either side of a road of width 10
metres. From the top of the first building, which is 40 metres high, the angle
of elevation to the top of the second is 45° . What is the height of the second
building? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 50 m)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
61. Two buildings are infront of each other and the distance between them is 15
m. From the top of the first building, having a height of 12 m, the angle of
elevation of the top of the second building is 30° . Find the height of the second
building. Leave your answer in a surd form. [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: (12 + 5√3) m]
62. Two buildings are facing each other on a road of width 12 metres. From the
top of the first building, which is 10 metres high, the angle of elevation of the
top of the second is found to be 60° . What is the height of the second building?
Leave your answer in a surd form. [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: (10 + 12√3) m]
63. Two poles of heights 25 m and 35 m stand vertically on the ground. The tops
of two poles are connected by a wire, which is inclined to the horizontal at an
angle of 30° . Find:
(a) The length of the wire. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 20 m)
(b) The distance between the poles. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 10√3 m)
64. A boy stands 20 m away from a telecommunication mast. His angle of
elevation of the top of the mast is 60° . If his eyes’ level is 75 cm above the
ground level, calculate the height of the mast. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 35.39 m)
65. An aircraft is at a height 200 m above the ground. An angle of elevation of the
aircraft from an observer 1.8 m tall on the horizontal ground is 53° . How far is
the aircraft from the observer? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 248.18 m)
66. Two straight roads intersect to form an angle of 75° . Find the shortest distance
from one road to a gas station on the other road that is 1,000 m from the
intersection. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 3732.1 m)
67. A cadet rappelling down a cliff on a rope needs help. A cadet on the ground
pulls tight on the end of the rope that hangs down from the rappelling cadet to
lock the cadet in place. The length of the rope between the two cadets is 120
feet, and the angle of elevation of the rope is 66° . The cadet on the ground is
holding the rope at a height of 4 feet. How high above the ground is the cadet
on the rope? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 113.63 ft)
68. Three villagers A, B and C can see each other using telescope across a valley.
The horizontal distance between A and B is 8 km and the horizontal distance
between B and C is 12 km. The angle of depression of B from A is 20° and the
angle of elevation of C from B is 30° (see the figure below).

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

Calculate the vertical height between:

(a) A and B (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 2.91 km)
(b) C and B (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 6.93 k m)
69. The elevation of a tower from two points, one due west of the tower and the
other due east of it are 20° and 24° , respectively, and the two points of
observation are 300 m apart. Find the height of the tower to the nearest metre.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 60 m)
70. Two pillars of equal height stand on either side of a roadway which is 100 feet
wide; at a point in the roadway between the pillars the elevations of the tops
of the pillars are 60° and 30° ; find:
(a) Their height. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 43.3 ft)
(b) The position of the point. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 75 ft from one of the pillars)
71. Two people, 1.5 km apart, stand on opposite sides of a church steeple and in
the same straight line with it. From one, the angle of elevation of the top of the
tower is 15.5° and, from the other, 28.67° . Calculate the height of the steeple
in metres. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 276 m)
72. Two poles of equal heights are standing opposite to each other on either side
of the road, which is 100 m wide. From a point between them on the road, the
angles of elevation of the top of the poles are 60° and 30° respectively. Find
the height of the poles. Leave your answer in a surd form. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 25√3 m)
73. Two ships are sailing in the sea on either side of the lighthouse which is in the
small island. The angles of depression of two ships as observed from the top
of the lighthouse are 60° and 45° respectively. If the distance between the
1+√3
ships is 200 ( ) m, find the height of the lighthouse. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 200 m)
√3

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
74. Two vertical poles are 150 m apart and the height of one is three times that of
the other. If from the middle point of the line joining their feet, an observer
finds the angles of elevation of their tops to be complementary. Find the height
of the shorter pole. Leave your answer in a surd form. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 25√3 m)
75. The angles of elevation of two towers from the middle point of the line joining
their feet are 60° and 30° respectively. Find the ratio of their heights.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 3: 1)
76. The angle of elevation of the top of a hill at the foot of a tower is 60° and the
angle of elevation of the top of the tower from the foot of the hill is 30° . If
height of the tower is 50 m, find the height of the hill. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 150 m)
77. A ladder with its foot in the street makes an angle of 30° with the street when
its top rests on a building on one side of the street and makes an angle of 40°
with the street when its top rests on a building on the other side of the street.
If the ladder is 50 ft long, how wide is the street? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 82 ft)
78. A and B are two points 1.8 km apart on a level piece of ground along the bank
of a river. P is a post on the opposite bank. It is found that angle PAB = 62°
and angle PBA = 48° . Calculate the width of the river.(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 1.26 km)
79. The tops of two towers of height x and y (𝑥 < 𝑦), standing on level ground,
subtend angles of 30° and 60° respectively at the centre of the line joining their
feet. Show that 𝑥: 𝑦 = 1: 3.
80. Two poles are ‘a’ metres apart and the height of one is double of the other. If
from the middle point of the line joining their feet an observer finds the angular
elevations of their tops to be complementary, show that the height of the
𝑎
shorter pole is 4 √2 metres.
81. The angle of elevation of the top of a mountain from the bottom of a tower 180
m high is 26.42° . From the top of the tower the angle of elevation is 25.3° .
Calculate the height of the mountain. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 3710.5 m)
82. Before a parade, you are holding one of the tethers attached to the top of a
character balloon that will be in the parade. The balloon is upright, and the
bottom is floating approximately 20 feet above ground level. You are standing
approximately 100 feet from the balloon. (See the figure below).

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

(a) Find an expression for the length l of the tether in terms of h, the height
of the balloon from top to bottom. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 𝑙 = √ℎ2 + 28ℎ + 10,196)
(b) Find an expression for the angle of elevation 𝜃 from you to the top of the
100
balloon. [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 𝜃 = cos −1 ( )]
𝑙
(c) The angle of elevation to the top of the balloon is 35° . Find the height h.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 56.02 ft)
83. The Sundial Bridge in Tanzania, is supported by cables attached to a 217- foot
sundial that leans backward at a 42° angle. (See the figure below).

(a) Determine the height h of the sundial. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 161.25 ft)

(b) The distance d shows how far the shadow extends horizontally from the
tip of the sundial. Draw the right triangle formed by d and h. Label the
angle of elevation of the sun as 𝜃.
ℎ
(c) Write d as a function of 𝜃. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 𝑑 = tan 𝜃)
(d) Find d when 𝜃 = 10° , 𝜃 = 20° , 𝜃 = 30° , 𝜃 = 40° and 𝜃 = 50° .
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: 914.6 ft; 443.0 ft; 279.3 ft; 192.2 ft; 135.3 ft)
(e) As the angle measure increases in equal increments, does the distance also
increase in equal increments? Explain.(Answer: No. Answers will vary)
84. At a point 200 feet from the base of a building, the angle of elevation to the
bottom of a smokestack is 35° , and the angle of elevation to the top is 53° , as
shown in figure below.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

Find the height s of the smokestack alone. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 125.4 feet)

85. From a point 100 feet in front of a public library, the angles of elevation to the
base of the flagpole and the top of the flagpole are 28° and 39° 45′ , respectively
(see the figure below).

Find the height of the flagpole. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 30.00 ft)

86. A park is showing a movie on the lawn. The base of the screen is 6 feet off the
ground and the screen is 22 feet high. (See the figure below).

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(a) Find the angles of elevation to the top of the screen from distances of 15
feet and 100 feet. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 61.82° ; 15.64° )
(b) You are lying on the ground and the angle of elevation to the top of the
screen is 42° . How far are you from the screen? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 31.10 ft)
87. Consider the figure given below.
D

47° 32°
C B A
20 m

At A, Frank measures the angle of elevation of the top of a wall as 32° . At B,

20 metres nearer the wall than A, Frank measures this angle to be 47° .
(a) Calculate the distance BD correct to two significant figures.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 41 m)
(b) From B, Frank walks directly to C at an average speed of 1.5 metres per
second. How long does it take Frank to walk from B to C? Give your
answer correct to two significant figures. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 19 seconds)
88. A surveyor wishes to measure the height of a wall. Measuring the angle of
elevation, she finds that the angle increases from 30° to 35° after walking 20
metres towards the wall (see the figure below).

30° 35°
20 m
What is the height of the wall? Write your answer correct to two significant
figures. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 66 m)
89. In traveling across flat land, you notice a mountain directly in front of you. Its
angle of elevation (to the pick) is 3.5° . After you drive 13 miles closer to the
mountain, the angle of elevation is 9° (see the figure below).

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

Approximate the height of the mountain. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 1.30 mi)

90. While visiting the Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado, John approximated
the angle of elevation to the top of a sand dune to be 20° . After walking 800 ft
closer, he guessed that the angle of elevation had increased by 15° (see the
figure below).

Approximately how tall is the dune he was observing? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 606.5 ft)
91. A man is standing 7 m away from the hemispherical dome of radius ‘r’ metres,
seeing the top of the pole at an angle 45° and moving 5 m away from the dome
and seeing the bottom of the pole at an angle 30° (see the figure below).

Find the radius of the dome (Take √3 = 1.732). (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 16.39 m)

92. Two points lie due west of a stationary balloon and are 1000 m apart. The
angles of elevation of the balloon at the two points are 21.25° and 18° . Find
the height of the balloon. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 1974 m)
93. Find the height of a tree if the angle of elevation of its top changes from
20° to 40° as the observer advances 75 ft towards its base. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 48.2 ft)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
94. A surveyor, who measures the angle of elevation of a tree as 32° and then walks
8 m directly towards the tree, finds that the new angle of elevation is 43° .
Calculate the height of the tree. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 15.2 m)
95. The angle of elevation of the top of a pillar at point A on the ground is 15° . On
walking 40 m towards the pillar, the angle becomes 30° . Find the height of the
pillar. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 20 m)
96. From a point A on level ground, the angles of elevation of the top D and bottom
B of a flagpole situated on the top of a hill are measured as 47° 54′ and 39° 45′ .
Find the height of the hill if the height of the flagpole is 115.5 ft.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 349.3 ft)
97. In order to estimate the height of a building, two students stand at a certain
distance from the building at street level. From this point, they find the angle
of elevation from the street to the top of the building to be 35° . They then move
250 feet closer to the building and find the angle of elevation to be 53° .
Assuming that the street is level, estimate the height of the building.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 371 ft)
98. The angles of elevation of the top of a tower from two points at a distance of
4 m and 9 m from the base of the tower and in the same straight line with it are
60° and 30° respectively. Find the height of the tower. Leave your answer in
a surd form. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 4√3 m)
99. The angle of elevation of the top of a vertical mast, viewed by an observer 50
m away, was found to be 16.7° .
(a) Calculate:
(i) The height of the mast; (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 15.0 m)
(ii) The length of a cable fixed at the point of the observer to the top of
the mast. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 52.20 m)
(b) Another observer, directly behind the first one, finds the angle of elevation
of the top of the mast to be 8.35° . Find the distance between the two
observers. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 52.2 m)
100. A surveyor measures the angle of elevation of the top of a perpendicular
building as 19° . He moves 120 m nearer to the building and finds the angle of
elevation is now 47° . Determine the height of the building.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 60.85 m)
101. A person walking along a straight road observes that at two points 1000 m
𝜋 5𝜋
apart, then angle of elevation of a vertical tower in front of him are and .
6 12

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Find the height of the tower. Leave your answer in a surd form.
[𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 250(√3 + 1) m]
102. The angle of elevation of the top of a tower at a certain point on the ground
𝜋 𝜋
is 6 and after moving 20 m towards the tower it becomes 3 . Find the height of
the tower. Leave your answer in a surd form. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 10√3 m)
103. A person standing on the bank of a river observes that the angle subtended
𝜋
by a tree on the opposite bank is 3 , when he retreats back 40 m from the bank
𝜋
he find the angle to be 6 . Then find the breadth of the river. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 20 m)
104. A boy who is at point M on the same horizontal level as the foot, T, of a
vertical building. He observes an object on the top, P of the building at an angle
of elevation of 66° . He moves directly backward to a new point C and observes
̅̅̅̅ = 50 m,
the same object at angle of elevation of 53° . If MT
(a) Illustrate the information in a diagram.
(b) Calculate the height of the building correct to one decimal place.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 112.3 m)
(c) Find the length of MC. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 34.6 m)
105. The angle of elevation of the top of a tower as observed from a point in a
horizontal plane through the foot of the tower is 32° . When the observer moves
towards the tower a distance of 100 m, he finds the angle of elevation of the
top to be 63° . Find:
(a) The height of the tower. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 91.67 m)
(b) The distance of the first position from the tower. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 146.71 m)
(Take tan 32° = 0.6249 and tan 63° = 1.9626)
106. Find the height of a chimney when it is found that, on walking towards it
100 feet in a horizontal line through its base, the angular elevation of its top
changes from 30° to 45° . (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 136.6 ft)
107. Two points A and B on the same horizontal ground are on the same side
of an electric pole. From the points, the angles of elevation of the top of the
pole are respectively 48° and 62° . If A and B are 8 m apart, calculate correct
to three significant figures, the height of the pole. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 21.7 m)
108. Two sensors are spaced 700 feet apart along the approach to a small airport.
When an aircraft is nearing the airport, the angle of elevation from the first
sensor to the aircraft is 20° , and from the second sensor to the aircraft is 15° .
Determine how high the aircraft is at this time. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 710.3 ft)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
109. From a point Q on a horizontal plane, the angle of elevation of the top of a
distant mountain is 22.3° . At a point P, 500 m further away in a direct
horizontal line, the angle of elevation of the mountain is 16.6° . Find the height
of the mountain. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 546 m)
110. The shadow of a tower standing on a level plane is found to be 60 feet
longer when the sun’s altitude is 30° than when it is 45° . Prove that the height
of the tower is 30(1 + √3) feet.
111. A tree stands vertically on a hill side which makes an angle of 15° with the
horizontal. From a point on the ground 35 m down the hill from the base of the
tree, the angle of elevation of the top of the tree is 60° . Find the height of the
tree. Leave your answer in surd form. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 35√2 m)
112. A man wishes to find the height of a church spire which stands on a
horizontal plane; at a point on this plane he finds the angle of elevation of the
top of the spire to be 45° ; on walking 100 feet toward the tower he finds the
corresponding angle of elevation to be 60° ; deduce his original distance from
the foot of the spire. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 236.6 feet)
113. A surveyor, who wishes to find the width of a river, stands on one bank of
the river and measures the angle of elevation of a high building on the edge of
the other bank and directly opposite as 31° . After walking 110 m away from
the river in the straight line from the building the surveyor finds that the angle
of elevation of the building is now 20.92° . Calculate the width of the river.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 192 m)
114. A satellite passes directly over two tracking stations A and B, which are
69 miles apart. When the satellite is on one side of the two stations, the angles
of elevation at A and B are measured to be 86.2° and 83.9° respectively.
(a) How far is the satellite from station A? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 1716 miles)
(b) How high is the satellite above the ground? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 1706.3 miles)
115. A person, standing on the bank of a river, observes that the angle subtended
by a tree on the opposite bank is 60° ; when he retires 40 feet from the bank he
finds the angle to be 30° ; find:
(a) The height of the tree. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 34.64 ft)
(b) The breadth of the river. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 20 ft)
116. A Television tower stands vertically on a bank of a canal. From a point on
the other bank directly opposite the tower, the angle of elevation of the top of
the tower is 60° . From another point 20 m away from this point on the line
joining this point to the foot of the tower, the angle of elevation of the top of

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
the tower is 30° . Find the height of the tower. Leave your answer in radical
form. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 10√3 m)
117. From a point on the ground, the angles of elevation of the bottom and the
top of a transmission tower fixed at the top of a 20 m high building are 45° and
60° respectively. Find the height of the tower. Leave your answer in surd form.
[𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 20(√3 − 1) m]
118. The angle of elevation of the top Q of avertical tower PQ from a point X
on the ground is 60° . At apoint Y, 40 m vertically above X, the angle of
elevation is 45° . Find the height of the tower (Take √3 = 1.73)
(𝐀𝐧𝐬: 94.6 m)
119. The angle of elevation of the top of an unfinished tower at a point distant
120 feet from its base is 45° ; how much higher must the tower be raised so that
its angle of elevation at the same point may be 60° ? (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 87.846 ft)
120. From a point on the ground 40 m away from the foot of a tower, the angle
of elevation of the top of the tower is 30° . The angle of elevation of the top of
a water tank (on the top of the tower) is 45° . Find:
(a) The height of the tower. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 23.1 m)
(b) The depth of the tank. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 16.9 m)
121. A flagstaff is on top of a building. At 80 m from the base of the building,
the angle of elevation of the top of the flagstaff is 38° , and the angle of
elevation of the bottom of the flagstaff is 32° . How tall is the flagstaff?
(𝐀𝐧𝐬: 12.5 m)
122. A vertical pedestal stands on the ground and is surmounted by a vertical
flagstaff of height 5 m. At a point on the ground, the angles of elevation of the
bottom and the top of the flagstaff are 30° and 60° respectively. Find the
height of the pedestal. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 2.5 m)
123. A tower, 50 feet high, stands on the top of a mound; from a point on the
ground the angles of elevation of the top and bottom of the tower are found to
be 75° and 45° respectively; find the height of the mound. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 18.3 ft)
124. There is an antenna on the top of a building. From a location 300 feet from
the base of the building, the angle of elevation to the top of the building is
measured to be 40° . From the same location, the angle of elevation to the top
of the antenna is measured to be 43° . Find the height of the antenna.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 28.02 ft)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
125. At 20 m from the base of a building, the angle of elevation of the bottom
of a window is 15° , and the angle of elevation of the top is 17° . Find the height
of the window. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 0.756 m)
126. On a straight line passing through the foot of a tower, two points C and D
are at distances 4 m and 16 m from the foot respectively. If the angles of
elevation from C and D of the top of the tower are complementary, find the
height of the tower. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 8 m)
127. The angle of elevation of the top of a building from the foot of the tower
is 30° and the angle of elevation of the top of the tower from the foot of the
building is 60° . If the tower is 50 m high, find the height of the building.
2
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 16 3 m)
128. The angles of elevation of the top of a tower from the top and bottom of a
house are 30° and 60° respectively. If the height of the house is 25 m, find the
height of the tower. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 37.5 m)
129. The angles of elevation of the top of a rock from the top and foot of a 100
m high tower are 30° and 45° respectively. Find the height of the rock.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 236.6 m)
130. James sees the top of a 40 m building from the ground at an angle of
elevation 70° . Amos directly behind James sees the top of the same building
at an angle of elevation of 40° . How far apart are Amos and James?
(𝐀𝐧𝐬: 33.1 m)
131. Two flagstaffs stand on a horizontal plane. A and B are two points on the
line joining the bases of the flagstaffs and between them. The angles of
elevation of the tops of the flagstaffs as seen from A are 30° and 60° and, as
seen from B, they are 60° and 45° . If the length AB is 30 feet, find the heights
of the flagstaffs and the distance between them.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: 25.98 ft; 70.98 ft; 85.98 ft)
132. A man stands 120 m from the foot of a wall on which a pole stands. He
measures the angles of elevation to the top and bottom of the pole to be
59° and 57° respectively. What is the height of the pole? (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 14.9 m)
133. The angles of elevation of a tower from two points distant a and b (𝑎 > 𝑏)
from its foot and in the same straight line from it are 30° and 60° . Show that
the height of the tower is √𝑎𝑏.
134. To a man standing outside his house, the angles of elevation of the top and
bottom of a window are 60° and 45° respectively. If the height of the man is
180 cm and if he is 5 m away from the wall, what is the height of the window?

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(Use √3 = 1.732) (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 3.66 m)
135. From the top of a building, 15 m high the angle of elevation of the top of
a tower is found to be 30° . From the bottom of the same building, the angle of
elevation of the top of the tower is found to be 60° . Find:
(a) The height of the tower. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 22.5 m)
(b) The distance between the tower and building. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 12.99 m)
136. PQ is a post of given height a, and AB is a tower at some distance. If
𝛼 and 𝛽 are the angles of elevation of B, the top of the tower, at P and Q
repectively. Show that:
𝑎 tan 𝛼
(a) The height of the tower is tan 𝛼−tan 𝛽.
𝑎
(b) The distance from the post is tan 𝛼−tan 𝛽.
137. A ladder that is leaning against a wall makes an angle of 70° with the
ground and reaches 5 m up the wall. The foot of the ladder is then moved 50
cm closer to the wall. Find the new angle that the ladder makes with the
ground. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 75.21° )
138. To evacuate some refugees, a bridge needs to be built across a river. The
first step is to find out how wide the river is. A surveyor is on one side of the
river, with a transit mounted on a tripod 1.2 m above the ground. An assistant
stands on the other side of the river, holding a 3 m pole vertically on the
ground. If the angle of elevation from the transit to the top of the pole is 8.5° ,
how wide is the river? (Answer: 12.04 m)
139. A flagpole stands on the edge of the top of a building. At a point 200 m
from the building the angles of elevation of the top and bottom of the pole are
32° and 30° respectively. Calculate the height of the flagpole.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 9.50 m)
140. From the point of 300 feet tall building the angle of elevation to the base
of the antenna on the roof is 26.6° . The angle of elevation to the top of antenna
is 31.5° . Determine the height of antenna. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 33.6 feet)
141. Jesca stood admiring a magnificent Douglas fir on the opposite shore of a
river. Jesca measured the angle of elevation to the top of the tree and found it
to be 17° . She then walked 30 feet away. This time the angle of elevation to
the top of the tree was 15° . Calculate the height of the tree. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 65 m)
142. A surveyor stands 120 m from the foot of a tower on which an aerial stands.
He measures the angles of elevation to the top and bottom of the aerial to be
59° and 57° respectively. What is the height of the aerial? (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 14.9 m)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
143. Find the height of a tower when it is found that on walking 80 m towards
it along a horizontal line through its base, the angular elevation of its top
changes from 30° to 60° . (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 40√3 m)
144. From a point on horizontal ground a surveyor measures the angle of
elevation of the top of a flagpole as 18° 40′ . He moves 50 m nearer to the
flagpole and measures the angle of elevation as 26° 22′ . Determine the height
of the flagpole. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 53.0 m)
145. From a ship at sea, the angles of elevation of the top and bottom of a
vertical lighthouse standing on the edge of a vertical cliff are 31° and 26° ,
respectively. If the lighthouse is 25.0 m high, calculate the height of the cliff.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 107.7 m)
146. A vertical aerial stands on horizontal ground. A surveyor positioned due
east of the aerial measures the elevation of the top as 48° . He moves due south
30 m and measures the elevation as 44° . Determine the height of the aerial.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 58.66 m)
147. A vertical tower subtends an angle of 60° at a point on the same level as
the foot of the tower. On moving 100 m further from the first point in line with
the tower, it subtends an angle of 30° at the point. Find the height of the tower.
Leave your answer in a surd form. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 50√3 m)
148. A boy on the ground is flying a kite with 100 m of string at an elevation of
30° . Another boy on the roof of a 10 m high building is flying his kite at an
elevation of 45° . If both the boys are in opposite sides of both the kites, find
the length of the string that the second boy must have so that the two kites
meet. Leave your answer in a surd form. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 40√2 m)
149. The angle of elevation to a plane approaching your home is 16° . One
minute later, it is 57° . You assume that the speed of the plane is 550 miles per
hour. Approximate the altitude of the plane. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 3.23 mi)
150. A man in a boat rowing uniformly away from a cliff 150 m high takes 2
𝜋 𝜋
minutes to change the angle of elevation of the top of the hill from 3 to 4 . Find
the speed of the boat. [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 25(3 − √3) m/min]
151. A bird is sitting on the top of a 80 m high tree. From a point on the ground,
the angle of elevation of the bird is 45° . The bird flies away horizontally in
such a way that it remained at a constant height from the ground. After 2
seconds, the angle of elevation of the bird from the same point is 30° . Find the
speed of flying of the bird. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 29.28 m/s)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
152. The angle of elevation of an airplane from a point on the ground is 45° .
After 15 seconds of flight the angle of elevation changes to 30° . If the airplane
is flying horizontally at a height of 4000 m in the same direction, find the speed
of the airplane. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 195.2 m/s)
153. The angle of elevation of a jet fighter from a point A on the ground is 60° .
After a flight of 15 seconds the angle of elevation changes to 30° . If the jet is
flying at the speed of 720 km/h, find the constant height at which jet is flying.
(Use √3 = 1.732) (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 2598 m)
154. An aeroplane flying horizontally 1 km above the ground is observed at an
elevation of 60° . After 10 seconds, its elevation is observed to be 30° . Find the
speed of the aeroplane in km/h. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 415.6 km/h)
155. The angle of elevation of an aeroplane from a point on the ground is 60° .
After a flight of 30 seconds the angle of elevation becomes 30° . If the
aeroplane is flying at a constant height of 3000√3 m, find the speed of the
aeroplane in:
(a) m/s (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 200 m/s)
(b) km/h. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 720 km/h)
156. One evening, Kaushik was in a park. Children were playing cricket. Birds
were singing nearby tree of height 80 m. He observed bird on the tree at an
angle of elevation 45° . When a sixer was hit, a ball flew through the tree
frightening the bird to fly away. In 2 seconds, he observed the bird flying at
the same height at an angle of elevation of 30° and the ball flying towards him
at the same height at an angle of elevation of 60° .
(a) At what distance from the foot of the tree was he observing the bird sitting
on the tree? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 80 m)
(b) How far did the bird fly in the mentioned time? [𝐀𝐧𝐬: 80(√3 − 1) m]
(c) After hitting the tree, how far did the ball travel towards Kaushik?
√3
[𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 80 (1 − ) m]
3
157. The sonar of a navy cruiser detects a submarine that is 4000 feet from the
cruiser. The angle between the water level and the submarine is 31.5° (see the
figure below).

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

How deep is the submarine? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 2090 ft)

158. A Global Positioning System satellite orbits 12,500 miles above Earth’s
surface (see the figure below).

Find the angle of depression from the satellite to the horizon. Assume the
radius of Earth is 4000 miles. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 75.97° )
159. The angle of depression of a ship from the top of a tower 30 m high is 60° .
Find the distance of ship from the base of the tower. Leave your answer in a
surd form. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 10√3 m)
160. From an airplane at an altitude of 1,200 m, the angle of depression to a
building on the ground measures 28° . Find the horizontal distance from the
plane to the building. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 2256.9 m)
161. The horizontal distance between two poles is 15 m. The angle of
depression of the top of the first pole as seen from the top of second pole is
30° . If the height of the second pole is 24 m, find the height of the first
pole.(Use √3 = 1.732) (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 15.34 m)
162. From the top of avertical cliff 90.0 m high the angle of depression of a boat
is 19° 50′ . Determine the distance of the boat from the cliff. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 249.5 m)
163. The horizontal distance between two trees of different heights is 60 m. The
angle of depression of the top of the first tree, when seen from the top of the
second tree, is 45° . If the height of the second tree is 80 m, find the height of
the first tree. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 20 m)
164. The horizontal distance between two buildings is 70 m. The angle of
depression of the top of the first building when seen from the top of the second

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
building is 45° . If the height of the second building is 120 m, find the height
of the first building. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 50 m)
165. While landing at Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere International
Airport, a pilot made an angle of depression of 20° . Average speed of the plane
was 200 km/h. If the plane reached the ground after 54 seconds, find the height
at which the plane was when it started landing.(Use sin 20° = 0.342)
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 1026 m)
166. From an aeroplane vertically over a straight horizontally road, the angle of
depression of two consecutive mile stones on opposite sides of the aeroplane
are observed to be 𝛼 and 𝛽. If h is the height in miles of aeroplane above the
tan 𝛼 tan 𝛽
road, show that ℎ = tan 𝛼+tan 𝛽.
167. A man sitting at a height of 20 m on tall tree on a small island in a river
observes two poles directly opposite to each other on the two banks of the river
and in line with the foot of the tree. If the angles of depression of the feet of
the poles from a point at which the man is sitting on the tree on either side of
the river are 60° and 30° respectively. Find the width of the river. Leave your
80√3
answer in a surd form. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: m)
3
168. From the top of a mast 150 m above the ground level, an engineer sighted
two spots one in the east and the other one in the west. If their angles of
depression are respectively 30° and 60° , how far apart are the two spots?
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 346.4 m)
169. Two ships are there in the sea on either side of the tower which is in the
small island. The ships and the tower are in the same straight line. The angles
of depression of two ships as observed from the top of the tower are
60° and 45° . If the height of the tower is 200 m, find the distance between the
two ships. (Use √3 = 1.73) (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 315.3 m)
170. Consider the figure given below.
T
°
29
44°

P Q B
120 m
(a) Calculate the distance TQ to the nearest metre. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 225 m)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(b) Calculate the height, TB, of the wall to the nearest metre. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 156 m)
171. An observer in a lighthouse 350 feet above sea level observes two ships in
the same vertical plane as the lighthouse. The angles of depression to the ships
are 4° and 6.5° (see the figure below).

How far apart are the ships? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 1934.3 ft)

172. A passenger in an airplane flying at an altitude of 10 kilometers sees two
towns due east of the plane. The angles of depression to the towns are 28° and
55° (see the figure below).

How far apart are the towns? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 11.8 km)

173. A pilot is flying over a straight highway. He determines the angles of
depression to two mileposts, 4.3 km apart, to be 32° and 56° , as shown in the
figure below.

32°
56°

A B
Find the distance of the plane from point A. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 5.6 km)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
174. From the top of a light house, the angles of depression of two ships on the
opposite sides of it are observed to be 𝛼 and 𝛽. If the height of the light house
is h metres, the distance between the ships is d metres and the line joining the
ℎ(tan 𝛼+tan 𝛽)
ships passes through the foot of the light house, show that 𝑑 = .
tan 𝛼 tan 𝛽
175. A lift in a building of height 90 feet with transparent glass walls is
descending from the top of the building. At the top of the building, the angle
of depression to a fountain in the garden is 60° . Two minutes later, the angle
of depression reduces to 30° . If the fountain is 30√3 feet from the entrance of
the lift, find the speed of the lift which is descending.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 30 feet/minute)
176. From the top of a tower of height 50 m, the angles of depression of the top
and bottom of a pole are 30° and 45° respectively.
(a) How far the pole is from the bottom of the tower? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 50 m)
(b) Find the height of the pole. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 21.13 m)
(Use √3 = 1.732)
177. From the top of a cliff 32 m high, it is noted that the angles of depression
of two boats lying in the line due east of the cliff are 21° and 17° . How far are
the boats apart? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 21.3 m)
178. From a point on top of a cliff 40 m high, two boats A and B are observed
due East. The angle of depression of boat A is 32° and that of boat B is 52° .
Determine the distance between the two boats. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 32.76 m)
179. The angle of depression of two ships from the top of a minar are
45° and 30° respectively. Both the ships are on one side of the minar and are
in a line passing through the base of the minar. If the distance between the
ships is 100 m, find the height of the minar. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 136.60 m)
180. A video camera is mounted on the top of a 120 m tall building. When the
camera tilts down, it views the bottom of another building, with an angle of
depression of 36° . If it tilts up 47° with the horizontal, it can view the top of
the same building. How tall is the building viewed by the camera?
(Answer: 297.1 m)
181. The angles of depression of the top and bottom of a tower as seen from the
top of a 60√3 m high cliff are 45° and 60° respectively. Find the height of the
tower. [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 60(√3 − 1) m]
182. A person in a balloon, which has ascended vertically from flat land at the
sea level, observes the angle of depression of a ship at anchor to be 30° ; after

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
descending vertically for 600 feet, he finds the angle of depression to be 15° ;
find the horizontal distance of the ship from the point of ascent.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 1939 ft)
183. There are two temples, one on each bank of a river, just opposite to each
other. One temple is 50 m high. From the top of this temple, the angles of
depression of the top and the foot of the other temple are 30° and 60°
respectively. Find:
(a) The distance between the temples. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 28.87 m)
(b) The height of the other temple. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 33.33 m)
184. As observed from the top of a 75 m high lighthouse from the sea – level,
the angles of depression of two ships are 30° and 45° . If one ship is exactly
behind the other on the same side of the lighthouse, find the distance between
the two ships. Leave your answer in a surd form. [𝐀𝐧𝐬: 75(√3 − 1) m]
185. An observer on the top of a cliff, 200 feet above the see – level, observes
the angles of depression of two ships at anchor to be 45° and 30° respectively;
find the distance between the ships if the line joining them points to the base
of the cliff. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 146.4 ft)
186. Standing on a cliff 380 metres above the sea, Paul sees an approaching ship
and measures its angle of depression, obtaining 9° .
(a) How far from shore is the ship? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 2399 m)
(b) Now Paul sights a second ship beyond the first. The angle of depression of
the second ship is 5° . How far apart are the ships? (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 1944 m)
187. A straight highway leads to the foot of a tower. A man standing at the top
of the tower observes a car at an angle of depression of 30° , which is
approaching the foot of the tower with a uniform speed. Six second later, the
angle of depression of the car is found to be 60° . Find the time taken by the car
to reach the foot of the tower from this point. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 3 seconds)
188. From a plane flying due east at 265 m above sea level, the angles of
depression of two ships sailing due east measure 35° and 25° . How far apart
are the ships? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 189.8 m)
189. From the top of a vertical cliff 80.0 m high the angles of depression of two
buoys lying due west of the cliff are 23° and 15° , respectively. How far apart
are the buoys. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 110.1 m)
190. From a height 42 m above sea level, two ships are sighted due east. The
angles of depression are 50° and 30° . How far apart are the ships?
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 37.50 m)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
191. A man from the top of a 100 m high tower sees a car moving towards the
tower at an angle of depression of 30° . After some time, the angle of depression
becomes 60° . Find the distance (in metres) travelled by the car during the time.
200√3
Leave your answer in a surd form. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: m)
3
192. A man on a cliff observes a ship at an angle of depression 30° approaching
the shore just beneath him. Three minutes later the angle of depression of the
3
ship is 60° . How soon will it reach the shore? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 2 min)
193. If two buildings are 30 ft apart and the angle of elevation from the top of
the first to the top of the second is 19° ,
(a) What is the angle of depression from the top of the second to the top of the
first? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 19° )
(b) What is the difference in their heights? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 10.3 ft)
194. A woman looking out from the window of a building at a height of 30 m,
observed that the angle of depression of the top of the flag pole was 44° . If the
foot of the pole is 25 m from the foot of the building and on the same horizontal
ground, find correct to the nearest whole number:
(a) The angle of depression of the foot of the pole from the woman.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 50° )
(b) The height of the pole. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 6 m)
195. A castle and a monument stand on the same horizontal plane. The height
of the castle is 140 feet, and the angles of depression of the top and bottom of
the monument as seen from the top of the castle are 40° and 80° respectively.
Find the height of the monument. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 119.2862 ft)
196. The angle of depression of a ship viewed at a particular instant from the
top of a 75 m vertical cliff is 30° .
(a) Find the distance of the ship from the base of the cliff at this instant.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 129.9 m)
(b) The ship is sailing away from the cliff at constant speed and 1 minute later
its angle of depression from the top of the cliff is 20° . Determine the speed
of the ship in km/h. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 4.57 km/h)
197. The angular depressions of the top and the foot of a chimney as seen from
the top of a second chimney, which is 150 m high and standing on the same
4 5
level as the first are 𝜃 and ∅ respectively. If tan 𝜃 = 3 and tan ∅ = 2, find the
distance between their tops. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 100 m)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
198. A tower subtends an angle of 30° at a point distant d from the foot of the
tower and on the same level as the foot of the tower. At a second point H
metres high vertically above the first, the depression of the foot of the tower is
𝐻
60° . If the height of the tower is h metres, show that ℎ = 3 .
199. Abdul is standing on the balcony of his hotel room that faces the water
park. The tallest slide in the park is only 124 feet from his balcony. He looks
down at an angle of depression of 31° to the bottom of the slide and then looks
up at 27° angle of elevation to the top of the slide. How tall is this slide?
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 137.7 ft)
200. Matinde’s house is 16 m from a TelCom tower. From his balcony, he
figured out that the angle of of elevation to the top of the tower is 42° , and the
angle of depression to the base of the tower is 24° . Find the height of the tower.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 21.53 m)
201. The angle of elevation of the top of a cell phone tower from the foot of a
high apartment is 60° and the angle of depression of the foot of the tower from
the top of the apartment is 30° . The height of the apartment is 50 m.
(a) Find the height of the cell phone tower. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 150 m)
(b) According to radiation control norms, the minimum height of a cell phone
tower should be 120 m. State if the height of the above mentioned cell
phone tower meets the radiation norms.
(Answer: Yes, the cell phone tower meets the radiation norms)
202. A cliff is perpendicular to the sea and the top of the cliff is 24 m above the
level of the sea. The angle of depression from the cliff to a boat at sea is 35° .
At a point h m up the cliff is a flag marker and the angle of elevation from the
boat to the flag marker is 18° .
(a) Draw and label a diagram to show the top of the cliff, T, the foot of the
cliff, F, the flag marker, M, and the boat, B, labelling all the angles and
distances given above.
(b) Find the distance from the boat to the foot of the cliff. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 34.3 m)
(c) Find the value of h. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 11.1 )
203. The angles of elevation and depression of the top and the bottom of a tower
from the top of a building, 60 m high, are 30° and 60° respectively. Find the
difference between the heights of the building and the tower. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 20 m)
204. From a point 15 feet above the ground and 80 feet from a building, the
angle of elevation to the top of the building is 13° and the angle of depresssion

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
to the bottom of the building is 24° . Find the height of the building.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 33.5 ft)
205. The angles of depression of the top and bottom of 8 m tall building from
the top of a multistoried building are 30° and 45° respectively. Find:
(a) The height of the multistoried building. [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 4(3 + √3) m]
(b) The distance between the two buildings. [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 4(3 + √3) m]
Leave your answers in a surd form.
206. A window of a house is h metres above the ground. From the window, the
angles of elevation and depression of the top and the bottom of another house
situated on opposite side of the lane are found to be 𝛼 and 𝛽, respectively. If
tan 𝛼
the height of the other house is H metres, prove that 𝐻 = ℎ (1 + tan 𝛽).
207. The angle of elevation of the top of a tower from the top of a house is 60°
and angle of depression of its base is 30° . If the horizontal distance between
the house and the tower is 12 m, find the height of the tower. Leave your
answer in a surd form. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 16√3 m)
208. A man on the deck of a ship, 16 m above water level, observe that the angle
of elevation and depression respectively of the top and bottom of a cliff are
60° and 30° . Calculate:
(a) The distance of the cliff from the ship. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 27.7 m)
(b) The height of the cliff. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 64 m)
209. A building is 60 m from a tall tree. From the top of the building the angle
of elevation of the top of the tree is 20° , and the angle of depression of the base
of the tree is 18° . Find the height of the tree. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 41.3 m)
210. A man is standing 12 ft from a wall. The angle of elevation from his eye
to the top of the wall is 30° , and the angle of depression to its base is 22° . How
tall is the wall? Round to the nearest foot. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 12 ft)
211. A radio tower is located 400 feet from a building. From a window in the
building, a person determines that the angle of elevation to the top of the tower
is 36° and that the angle of depression to the bottom of the tower is 23° . How
tall is the tower? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 460.4 ft)
212. From the top window of a house that is 1.5 km away from a tower, it is
observed that the angle of elevation of the top of the tower is 3.6° and the angle
of depression of the bottom is 1.2° . Find the height of the tower in metres.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 126 m)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
213. A 200 foot tall monument is located at a certain distance from a building
in Dar Es Salaam City. From a window in the building, a person determines
that the angle of elevation to the top of the monument is 15° and that the angle
of depression to the bottom is 2° . How far is the person from the monument?
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 660.5 ft)
214. From the foot of a building, I have to look upwards at an angle of 22° to
see the top of a tree. From the top of a 150 ft building, I have to look down at
an angle of depression of 50° to look at the top of the tree.
(a) How tall is the tree? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 37.97 ft)
(b) How far is the building from the tree? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 93.997 ft)
215. From a window 4.2 m above horizontal ground the angle of depression of
the foot of a building across the road is 24° and the angle of elevation of the
top of the building is 34° . Determine,
(a) The width of the road. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 9.43 m)
(b) The height of the building. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 10.56 m)
216. From the top of an office building, the angle of depression to the top of a
motel is 23° . From the bottom of the office building, the angle of elevation to
the top of the motel is 17° . If the distance from the office building to the motel
is 250 m, find the height of the office building. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 182.5 m)
217. In these triangles, you are given a side and two angles. Find the unknown
side stated.
̅̅̅̅ = 12 cm, LM
(a) LM ̂ N = 42° , ML̂N = 37° . Find LN ̅̅̅̅. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 8.4 cm)
̅̅̅̅ = 1.6 km, DE
(b) EF ̂F = 32 , DF̂E = 52 . Find ̅̅̅̅
° °
DF. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 0.85 km)
218. In these triangles, you are given a side and two angles. Find the unknown
side.
(a) ̅̅̅̅
AB = 5 cm, AB ̂ C = 66° , BA ̂ C = 47° . Find ̅̅̅̅
BC. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 3.97 cm)
(b) MN = 7.1 m, LMN = 40 , LNM = 59 . Find ̅̅̅̅
̅̅̅̅̅ ̂ ° ̂ °
LN. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 4.62 m)
̅̅̅̅ = 32 mm, PQ
(c) PR ̂ R = 65 , PR
° ̂ Q = 58 . Find PQ
° ̅̅̅̅. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 29.9 mm)
̅̅̅̅ = 12 cm, XẐY = 45 , XY
(d) XZ ° ̂Z = 77 . Find XY
° ̅̅̅̅. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 8.71 cm)
219. In these triangles, you are given two sides and an angle. Find the unknown
angle.
(a) In ∆ABC, ̅̅̅̅
AB = 11 cm, ̅̅̅̅
BC = 8 cm, AĈB = 57° . Find BA ̂ C.
̅̅̅̅ = 1.3 m, ̅̅̅̅
(b) In ∆DEF, EF FD = 1.5 m, DE ̂F = 37° . Find EF̂D.
(c) In ∆PQR, PR̅̅̅̅ = 77 mm, ̅̅̅̅RQ = 63 mm, PQ ̂ R = 72° . Find PR ̂ Q.
̅̅̅̅ = 0.93 km, XZ
(d) In ∆XYZ, XY ̅̅̅̅ = 1.25 km, ZY ̂X = 83 . Find YX
° ̂Z.
° °
[𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: (a) 37.6 (b) 111.6 (c) 56.9 (d) 49.4 ] ° °

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
220. Consider the figure below.
B

47.5° 54°Y
X
40 m
Calculate the distance BX correct to two significant figures. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 33 m)
221. A mass hangs from a horizontal beam by two strings as shown in the figure
below.

38° 74°

2.6 m

Use the data in the figure above to calculate the length of the longer string.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 4.06 m)
222. In the triangle ABC below, ̅̅̅̅
AB = 𝑥, ̅̅̅̅
AC = 7.6 cm, BA ̂ C = 35° , AĈB = 65°
and AB̂ C = θ.
B
𝑥 θ

A 35° 65°
C
7.6 cm
(a) Write down the value of θ. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: θ = 80° )
(b) Hence calculate the value of x correct to two significant figures.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 𝑥 = 7.0 cm)
223. The length of the side BC of a triangle ABC is 14.5 m, angle ABC = 71°
and angle BAC = 57° . Calculate the lengths of the sides AC and AB.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: 16.35 m, 13.62 m)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
224. A wall that is 1.4 m long has started to lean and now makes an angle of
80° with the ground. A 2 m board is jammed between the top of the wall and
the ground to prop up the wall (see the figure below).
T

Wall
1.4 m 2m
Board

R Ground S

(a) What angle does the board make with the ground? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 44° )
(b) What angle does the board make with the wall? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 56° )
(c) How far is the board from the base of the wall? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 1.7 m)
225. Because of prevailing winds, a tree grew so that it is leaning 4° from the
vertical. At a point 40 m from the tree, the angle of elevation to the top
of the tree is 30° (see the figure below).

Find the height h of the tree. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 24.12 m)

226. A pole leans away from the sun at an angle of 7° to the vertical. When the
angle of elevation of the sun is 51° , the pole casts a shadow 47 ft long on level
ground (see the figure below).

How long is the pole? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 51 ft)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
227. A 10 – meter telephone pole casts a 17-meter shadow directly down a slope
when the angle of elevation of the sun is 42° (see the figure below).

Find 𝜃, the angle of elevation of the ground. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 16.08° )

228. In preparation for an outdoor rock concert, a stage crew must determine
how far apart to place the two large speaker columns on stage (see the figure
below).What generally works best is to place them at 50° angles to the center
of the front row. The distance from the center of the front row to each of the
speakers is 10 ft.

How far apart does the crew need to place the speakers on stage?
A(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 12.86 ft)
229. The Leaning Tower leans because it was built on unstable soil – a mixture
of clay, sand, and water. The tower is approximately 58.36 metres tall from its
foundation. The top of the tower leans about 5.45 metres off centre (see the
figure below).

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

(a) Find the angle of lean 𝛼 of the tower. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 5.36° )

(b) Write 𝛽 as a function of d and 𝜃, where 𝜃 is the angle of elevation to the
𝑑 sin 𝜃
sun. [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 𝛽 = sin−1 ( 58.36 )]
(c) Use the Law of Sines to write an equation for the length d of the shadow
58.36
cast by the tower in terms of 𝜃. [𝑑 = ( sin 𝜃 ) sin(84.64° − 𝜃)]
(d) Complete the table below.
𝜃 10° 20° 30° 40° 50° 60°
𝑑
Answer
𝜃 10° 20° 30° 40° 50° 60°
𝑑 324.08 154.19 95.19 63.80 43.30 28.10
230. The shortest side of a triangle is 3.6 km long. Two of the angles are
37.25° and 48.4° . Find the length of the longest side. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 5.93 km)
231. The length of the longest side of a triangle is 162 m. Two of the angles are
37.25° and 48.4° . Find the length of the shortest side. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 98.34 m)
232. A tree T is observed from two points P and Q which are 50 metres apart.
∠TPQ is measured as 105° and ∠TQP as 43° . How far is the tree from P? Write
your answer correct to two significant figures. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 64 m)
233. A cottage under construction is to be 12.6 m wide. The two sides of the
roof are to be supported by rafters that meet at an angle of 50° . How long
should the rafters be if they are the same length? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 14.9 m)
234. Jackson is on one side of a 200 m – wide canyon and James is on the other.
Jackson and James can both see the trail guide at an angle of depression of 60° .
How far are they from the trail guide?
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: Each person is 200 m from the trail guide)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
235. An overhead crane is suspended from a ceiling by two chains. One chain
is 4.6 m long and forms an angle of 60° with the ceiling. The other chain is
6.4 m long. What angle does the larger chain make with the ceiling?
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 38.5° )
236. At the foot of a mountain the elevation of its summit is found to be 45° ;
after ascending one mile towards the mountain up a slope of 30° inclination,
the elevation is found to be 60° . Find the height of the mountain.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 1.366 miles)
Note: In the question above, summit is the highest point of a mountain.
237. A tower 150 m high is situated at the top of a hill. At a point 650 m down
the hill the angle between the surface of the hill and the line of sight to the
top of the tower is 12° 30′ . Find the inclination of the hill to a horizontal
plane. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 7° 50′ )
238. Let ABC be a triangle such that one of its sides is double the other and let
𝜋
the angles opposite to those sides differ by by an angle of 3 .
(a) Find the angles opposite to the sides mentioned. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 30° ; 90° )
(b) Is this a right angled triangle? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: Yes)
239. The angles of elevation 𝜃 and ∅ to an airplane are being continuously
monitored at two observation points A and B, respectively, which are 2 miles
apart, and the airplane is east of both points in the same vertical plane.
(a) Draw a diagram that illustrates the problem.
(b) Write an equation giving the distance d between the plane and point B in
2 sin 𝜃
terms of 𝜃 and ∅. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 𝑑 = sin(∅−𝜃))
(c) Use the equation from part (b) to find the distance between the plane and
point B when 𝜃 = 40° and ∅ = 60° . (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 3.76 mi)
cos 𝐴 cos 𝐵 cos 𝐶 𝑎2 +𝑏 2 +𝑐 2
240. Prove that + + = .
𝑎 𝑏 𝑐 2𝑎𝑏𝑐
241. In these triangles, you are given two sides and an angle. Find the
unknown angle.
(a) ̅̅̅̅
AB = 7 cm, ̅̅̅̅
BC = 8 cm, AB ̂ C = 63° . Find ̅̅̅̅
AC. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 7.88 cm)
̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅̅ ̂ °
(b) ED = 1.7 m, FD = 2.3 m, EDF = 84 . Find EF ̅̅̅̅. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 2.71 m)
̅̅̅̅ = 43 mm, RQ
(c) PR ̅̅̅̅ = 38 mm, QR ̂ P = 42° . Find PQ ̅̅̅̅. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 29.4 mm)
̅̅̅̅ = 58 km, XZ
(d) XY ̅̅̅̅ = 44 km, YX ̂Z = 50 . Find YZ
° ̅̅̅̅. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 44.9 km)
242. In these triangles, you are given three sides. Find the unknown angle.
(a) ̅̅̅̅
AB = 11 cm, ̅̅̅̅
BC = 14 cm, ̅̅̅̅
CA = 17 cm. Find AB ̂ C. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 84.8° )
(b) ̅̅̅̅ ̅̅̅̅ = 0.9 m, ̅̅̅̅
DE = 1.2 m, EF FD = 1.3 m. Find DF̂E. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 63.1° )

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(c) ̅̅̅̅
PQ = 53 mm, ̅̅̅̅QR = 50 mm, ̅̅̅̅RP = 59 mm. Find PR ̂ Q. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 57.5° )
̅̅̅̅ = 11 km, YZ
(d) XY ̅̅̅̅ = 9 km, ZX
̅̅̅̅ = 13 km. Find ZX
̂Y. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 43° )
243. The three sides of a triangle have lengths 5 cm, 4 cm and 8 cm. Find the
largest angle of the triangle. Hint: The largest angle is the angle opposite the
longest side. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 125.10° )
244. Find the largest angle in the triangle with sides 6 cm, 7 cm and 9 cm.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 87.3° )
245. A triangular parcel of ground has sides of lengths 725 feet, 650 feet, and
575 feet. Find the measure of the largest angle. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 72.28° )
246. Find the smallest angle in the triangle with sides 43 m, 52 m and 67 m.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 39.9° )
247. Attempt to find the largest angle of a triangle with sides 5.8 cm, 8.3 cm
and 14.1 cm. What happens?
Answer: The cosine of the largest angle is −1 and the largest angle is 180° .
This triangle is impossible to draw.
248. Consider the figure given below.
A

36°
1.2 m
1m

B C

From the figure above,

(a) How far apart are the points B and C? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 0.706 m)
(b) What angle does the longer side make with the floor? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 56.4° )
249. To approximate the length of a marsh, a surveyor walks 380 metres from
point A to point B. Then, the surveyor turns 80° and walks 240 metres to point
C (see the figure below).

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
Approximate the length AC of the marsh. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 483.40 m)
250. Jackson and Robert organised a “cricket ball throw” competition. Each
student throws the ball from S. Jackon is at J and Robert is at R. The line SJ is
at right angles to RJ. When Dipak throws the ball it lands at B. Jackson
measures angle BJR as 35° and Robert measures angle BRJ as 68° (see the
figure below).
R

B 68°

80 m

35°

S 80 m J
Calculate to the nearest metre,
(a) The length of BJ. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 76 m)
(b) The distance Dipak threw the ball. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 72 m)
251. A, B and L are points in the same horizontal plane, HL is a vertical pole of
length 3 metres, AL = 5.2 m, AL̂B = 113° and the angle of elevation of H from
B is 40° .
H

3m
L 40° B
113°

A
Calculate the length of:
(a) LB. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 3.58 m)
(b) AB (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 7.4 m)
252. A 100-foot vertical tower is to be erected on the side of a hill that makes a
6° angle with the horizontal. Find the length of each of the two guy wires that
will be anchored 75 feet uphill and downhill from the base of the tower (see
the figure below).

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four

(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: 131.12 ft, 118.56 ft)

253. Triangle ABC is such that ̅̅̅̅AB = 4 cm, ̅̅̅̅BC = 7 cm and angle
°
ABC = 100 . Calculate:
(a) The perimeter of triangle ABC correct to two decimal places.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 19.64 cm)
(b) The size of angle ACB correct to one decimal place. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 27.1° )
254. A and B are two points on opposite banks of a river. From A, a line
AC = 275 m is laid off, and the angles CAB = 125° 40′ and ACB = 48° 50′
are measured. Find the length of AB. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 2160 m)
255. A triangular field has two sides 50 m and 60 m long, and the angle between
these sides is 96° . How long is the third side? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 82.0 m)
256. Two cars leaving the same point travelling on straight highways that differ
by 100° . One is travelling at 53 km/h and the other at 72 km/h. How far apart
will they be after 2 hours? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 193.1 km)
257. Kelvin, Damian and Alfred are on three separate boats at sea. Kelvin sees
both Damian and Alfred. The angle between the line of sight to Damian and
the line of sight to Alfred is 45° . If the distance between Kelvin and Damian
is 2 miles and the distance between Kelvin and Alfred is 4 miles, what is the
distance between Damian and Alfred? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 2.95 miles)
258. A and B are two points on opposite sides of swampy ground. From a point
P outside the swamp, it is found that PA is 882 m and PB is 1008 m. The angle
subtended at P by AB is 55.67° . Calculate the distance between A and B.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 889 m)
259. Two ships have radio equipment with a range of 200 km. One is 155 km
N42° 40′ E and the other is 165 km N45° 10′ W of a shore station. Can the two
ships communicate directly? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: No; they are 222 km apart)
260. You are given two sides and an angle. Find the unknown angle.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
̅̅̅̅ = 12 m, ̅̅̅̅
FE ED = 13 m and EF̂D = 47° . Find ED̂ F. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 42.5° )
261. In these triangles, you are given a side and two angles. Find the unknown
side.
(a) ̅̅̅̅
PQ = 94 mm, PR ̂ Q = 55° and QP ̂R = 54° . Find PR
̅̅̅̅. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 108.5 mm)
̅̅̅̅ = 2.8 km, XY
(b) XY ̂Z = 61.5 and YX
° ̂Z = 66 . Find YZ
° ̅̅̅̅. (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 3.22km)
262. In ∆ABC, ̅̅̅̅ AB = 17 cm, ̅̅̅̅
BC = 15 cm and AB ̂ C = 62° . Find AĈB.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 64.9° )
263. In ∆PQR, ̅̅̅̅ PQ = 5 m, ̅̅̅̅
QR = 6 m and QP ̂R = 58° . Find ̅̅̅̅PR.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 6.89 m)
264. In ∆DEF, DE ̅̅̅̅ = 60 mm, DF
̅̅̅̅ = 55 mm and ED ̂ F = 66° . Find FE ̂D.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 53.2 )°

265. In ∆XYZ, ̅̅̅̅XY = 42 km, ̅YZ̅̅̅ = 38 km and YẐX = 57° . Find ̅XZ ̅̅̅.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 48.1 km)
266. Consider the figure given below.
A

4.5 cm
108°
B 3 cm C

(a) Use the cosine rule to find the length of AC correct to one decimal place.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 6.1 cm)
(b) Use the sine rule to find angle A to the nearest degree. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 28° )
(c) Find the size of angle C. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 44° )
267. Consider the figure given below.
P 48 cm Q

41 cm
55 cm

R
(a) Use the cosine rule to find ∠QPR to the nearest degree. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 76° )
(b) Use the sine rule to find ∠PQR to the nearest degree. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 46° )
(c) Find the size of ∠QRP to the nearest degree. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 58° )

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
268. Two hooks P and Q on a horizontal beam are 30 cm apart. From P and Q
strings PR and QR, 18 cm and 16 cm long respectively, support a weight at R.
Find:
(a) The angles which PR and QR make with the beam.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 26.32° , 29.93° )
(b) The distance of R from the beam. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 7.98 cm)
269. A weight was hung from a horizontal beam by two chains 8 m and 9 m
long respectively, the ends of the chains being fastened to the same point of
the weight, their other ends being fastened to the beam at points 10 m apart.
Determine the angles that the chains make with the beam.
(𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 49.46° , 58.75° )
270. A forest ranger at point A sights a fire directly south. A second ranger at
point B, 7.5 mi east, sights the same fire at a bearing of S 27° 23′ W (see the
figure below).

How far from A is the fire? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 14.5 mi)

271. A motorboat moves in the direction N40° E for 3 h at 20 mi/h.
(a) How far north does it travel? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 45.96 mi)
(b) How far east does it travel? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 38.56 mi)
272. Three ships are situated as follows: A is 225 miles west of C while B, due
south of C, bears S25° 10′ E from A.
(a) How far is B from A? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 529 miles)
(b) How far is B from C? (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 479 miles)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
273. A plane flies 100 km in the direction S38° 10′ E.
(a) How far south of the starting point is it? (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 78.6 km south)
(b) How far east of the starting point is it? (𝐀𝐧𝐬: 61.8 km east)
274. Verify that:
(a) cos(180° − 90° ) = cos 180° cos 90° + sin 180° sin 90°
(b) cos(180° + 45° ) = cos 180° cos 45° − sin 180° sin 45°
2 2 2
(c) cos (𝜋 − 3 𝜋) = cos 𝜋 cos 3 𝜋 + sin 𝜋 sin 3 𝜋.
275. Verify that for any angle C, cos(90° − 𝐶) = sin 𝐶.
276. Verify that cos(𝜋 − 𝜋) = cos 𝜋 cos 𝜋 + sin 𝜋 sin 𝜋.
277. Verify that the following relations are true for all values of t.
(a) cos(𝜋 − 𝑡) = − cos 𝑡.
(b) cos(2𝜋 − 𝑡) = cos 𝑡.
𝜋
(c) cos ( 2 − 𝑡) = sin 𝑡.
(d) cos(𝜋 − 𝑡) = sin 𝑡.
278. Verify that sin 30° cos 60° + cos 30° sin 60° = 1
√2−√6
279. Find the value of cos 105° from cos(45° + 60° ). (𝐀𝐧𝐬: )
4
280. Verify that sin 90° = 2 sin 45° cos 45° .
281. By using the formula for sin(𝐴 − 𝐵), show that sin(90° − 𝐶) = cos 𝐶.
282. Express each of the following as a single trigonometric ratio.
(a) sin 60° cos 20° − sin 20° cos 60° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: sin 40° )
(b) cos 43° cos 85° − sin 43° sin 85° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: cos 128° )
283. Simplify the following.
(a) sin 20° cos 30° + cos 20° sin 30° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: sin 50° )
(b) sin 35° cos 45° − cos 35° sin 45° [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: sin(−10° )]
(c) cos 17° cos 23° − sin 17° sin 23° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: cos 40° )
(d) cos 42° cos 13° + sin 42° sin 13° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: cos 29° )
284. Rewrite each expression as a single function of an angle.
(a) sin 75° cos 28° − cos 75° sin 28° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: sin 47° )
(b) cos 31° cos 48° − sin 31° sin 48° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: cos 79° )
(c) 2 sin 75° cos 75° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: sin 150° )
(d) 1 − 2 sin2 37° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: cos 74° )
285. Without using a calculator or tables, find the values of the following:
1
(a) sin(30° + 45° ) [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 4 √2(1 + √3)]

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
1
(b) cos(45° + 60° ) [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: √2(1 − √3)]
4
286. (a) The angle 15° can be written as 45° − 30° . Find the exact value of
√2(√3−1) √2(√3+1)
sin 15° and cos 15° . [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬: and ]
4 4
(b) The angle 15° can be written as 60° − 45° . Use this to find the exact values
of sin 15° and cos 15° . Show that your answers are the same as in part (a)
above.
287. Without using a calculator or tables, find the values of the following:
1
(a) sin 105° [Use 105° = 60° + 45° ] [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 4 √2(√3 + 1)]
1
(b) sin 15° [Use 15° = 60° − 45° ] [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 4 √2(√3 − 1)]
1
(c) cos(−15° ) [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 4 √2(1 + √3)]
288. Evaluate sin 75° , by using
1
(a) 75° = 30° + 45° [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 4 √2(1 + √3)]
1
(b) 75° = 120° − 45° [𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 4 √2(√3 + 1)]
1
289. In triangle ABC, right – angled at B, if tan A = , find the value of:
√3
(a) sin A cos C + cos A sin C (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 1)
(b) cos A cos C − sin A sin C (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 0)
290. Use the fact that 90 = 30 + 60 to show that sin 90° = 1.
° ° °
1
291. Prove that sin(𝜃 + 45° ) = (sin 𝜃 + cos 𝜃).
√2
292. Prove that:
𝜋 𝜋
(a) cos (4 + 𝑥) + cos ( 4 − 𝑥) = √2 cos 𝑥
𝜋
(b) cos 𝜃 − sin 𝜃 = √2 cos (𝜃 + 4 ).
293. Prove that:
1
(a) sin(40° + θ) . cos(10° + θ) − cos(40° + θ) . sin(10° + θ) = 2
3 12
294. Given sin 𝐴 = 5 and cos 𝐵 = 13, if A and B are both acute, find the value
of:
56
(a) sin(𝐴 + 𝐵) (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 65)
33
(b) cos(𝐴 + 𝐵) (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 65)
16
(c) sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 65)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
63
(d) cos(𝐴 − 𝐵) (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: )
65
4 7
295. Given sin 𝐴 = 5 and cos 𝐵 = − 25, if A is acute and B is obtuse, find the
value of:
44
(a) sin(𝐴 + 𝐵) (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 125)
𝟏𝟏𝟕
(b) cos(𝐴 + 𝐵) (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: − 𝟏𝟐𝟓)
𝟒
(c) sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: − 𝟓)
𝟑
(d) cos(𝐴 − 𝐵) (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 𝟓)
296. If sin 3A = cos(A − 26° ), where 3A is an acute angle, find the value of
A. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: A = 29° )
297. Given sin 𝑥 = cos 2𝑥 − 1. Show that 2 sin2 𝑥 + sin 𝑥 = 0.
298. Prove the following identities:
(a) sin(𝐴 + 𝐵) + sin(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 2 sin 𝐴 cos 𝐵.
(b) cos(𝐴 + 𝐵) + cos(𝐴 − 𝐵) = 2 cos 𝐴 cos 𝐵.
cos 2𝐴
(c) = cos 𝐴 − sin 𝐴.
cos 𝐴+sin 𝐴
sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴 2
(d) + sin 𝐴 = sin 2𝐴
cos 𝐴
sin 𝜃 cos 𝜃 2 sin(𝜃+∅)
(e) + cos ∅ =
sin ∅ sin 2∅
sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴 2 sin(𝐴−𝐵)
299. Prove that, for angles A and B, sin 𝐵 − cos 𝐵 = sin 2𝐵
cos 2𝑥.tan 𝑥 cos 𝑥
300. Prove that = − tan 𝑥 for all other values of x.
sin2 𝑥 sin 𝑥
1−cos 2𝑥−sin 𝑥
301. Prove that = tan 𝑥.
sin 2𝑥−cos 𝑥
cos 𝑥+sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥−sin 𝑥
302. Prove the identity cos 𝑥−sin 𝑥 − cos 𝑥+sin 𝑥 = 2 tan 2𝑥
sin(𝐴−𝐵) sin(𝐵−𝐶) sin(𝐶−𝐴)
303. Prove that, sin 𝐴 sin 𝐵 + sin 𝐵 sin 𝐶 + sin 𝐶 sin 𝐴 = 0
304. Without using a calculator, show that:
sin 5𝐵 cos 5𝐵
(a) − = 4 cos 2𝐵
sin 𝐵 cos 𝐵
1
(b) = 4 cos 36°
sin 18°
(c) sin 18° is a solution of the cubic equation 8𝑥 3 − 4𝑥 + 1 = 0.
305. Prove without the use of a calculator, that if sin 28° = 𝑎 and cos 32° = 𝑏,
1
then 𝑏√1 − 𝑎2 − 𝑎√1 − 𝑏 2 = 2.
306. If sin 61° = √𝑝, determine the following in terms of p.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
(a) sin 241° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: −√𝑝)
(b) cos 61° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: √1 − 𝑝)
(c) cos 122° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 1 − 2𝑝)
(d) cos 73 cos 15 + sin 73° sin 15° (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 2𝑝 − 1)
° °

307. In the right triangle ABC in which C is the right angle, prove:
2𝑎𝑏
(a) sin 2𝐴 = 𝑐2
𝑏 2 −𝑎2
(b) cos 2𝐴 = 𝑐2
tan A−tan B
308. Show that tan(A − B) = 1+tan A tan B
309. By using the formula for tan(A − B), prove that tan(180° − θ) = − tan 𝜃.
1+tan θ
310. Prove that tan(θ + 45° ) = 1−tan θ
tan A+tan B sin(A+B)
311. Show that tan A−tan B = sin(A−B)
tan 69° +tan 66°
312. Show that 1−tan 69° tan 66° = −1
313. Simplify the following.
tan 30° +tan 40°
(a) (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: tan 70° )
1−tan 30° tan 40°
tan 50° −tan 20°
(b) (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: tan 30° )
1+tan 50° tan 20°
314. Rewrite each expression as a single function of an angle.
tan 37° +tan 68°
(a) (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: tan 105° )
1−tan 37° tan 68°
2 tan 31°
(b) (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: tan 62° )
1−tan2 31°
315. If A and B are acute angles, find 𝐴 + 𝐵, given:
1 3
(a) tan 𝐴 = 4 , tan 𝐵 = 5. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 45° )
5
(b) tan 𝐴 = 3 , tan 𝐵 = 4. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 135° )
1 1 3𝜋
316. If tan A = − 2 and tan B = − 3, find A + B. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 4
)
5 1 𝜋
317. If tan A = 6 and tan B = 11, show that A + B = 4
318. If A = 45° , verify that:
(a) sin 2𝐴 = 2 sin 𝐴 cos 𝐴
(b) cos 2𝐴 = 1 − 2 sin2 𝐴
2 tan 𝐴
(c) tan 2𝐴 = 1−tan2 𝐴
1−tan2 𝐴
319. If 3 tan 𝐴 = 4, prove that 1+tan2 𝐴 = cos 2 𝐴 − sin2 𝐴.

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
𝑚 1 𝜋
320. If tan 𝛼 = and tan 𝛽 = , then prove that 𝛼 + 𝛽 = .
𝑚+1 2𝑚+1 4
321. Prove that:
(a) tan 𝜃 sin 2𝜃 = 2 sin2 𝜃.
1−sin 2𝐴 1−tan 𝐴
(b) = 1+tan 𝐴
cos 2𝐴
1−tan2 𝜃
(c) cos 2𝜃 = 1+tan2 𝜃
1−cos 2𝜃
(d) ( ) = tan 𝜃
sin 2𝜃
𝑛 sin 𝛼 cos 𝛼
322. If tan 𝛽 = 1−𝑛 sin2 𝛼
, prove that tan(𝛼 − 𝛽) = (1 − 𝑛) tan 𝛼.
𝑄 sin 𝛽 𝑃 sin 𝛼
323. If tan 𝛼 = 𝑃+𝑄 cos 𝛽 , prove that tan(𝛽 − 𝛼) = 𝑄+𝑃 cos 𝛼.
2 sin 2𝛽
324. If tan 𝛽 = 3 tan 𝛼, then prove that tan(𝛼 + 𝛽) = 1+2 cos 2𝛽.
325. 20 metres high flag pole is fixed on a 80 metres high piller, 50 metres away
from it, on a point on the base of piller the flag pole makes an angle 𝛼. Find
2
the value of tan 𝛼. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 21)
326. AB is a vertical pole resting at the end A on the level ground. P is a point
on the level ground such that 𝐴𝑃 = 3𝐴𝐵. If C is the mid – point of AB and CB
3
subtends an angle 𝛽 at P, find the value of tan 𝛽. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 19)
327. A vertical pole (more than 100 m high) consists of two portions, the lower
being one – third of the whole. If the upper portion subtends an angle of
1
tan−1 (2) at a point in a horizontal plane through the foot of the pole and
distance 40 ft from it, find the height of the pole. (𝐀𝐧𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐫: 120 ft)

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 Solved Problems in Basic Mathematics (S.P.B.M), Form Four
TAREHE 01/01/KILA MWAKA, TOLEO JIPYA LA
VITABU VYA SOLVED PROBLEMS IN BASIC
MATHEMATICS (S.P.B.M) VITAKUWA VIKITOKA
KWA KILA KIDATO. MASWALI YATAKUWA
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