Trig question (1 Viewer)

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So this was the last question of a recent topic test which I'm still stuck with. Where on earth is alpha and beta anyway? :(



Thanks!
 

Aysce

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I'm pretty sure angle OAG is beta whilst angle AOG is alpha.
 

Aysce

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Thanks :)

How can you tell though? The wording threw me off
So the line AO makes an angle with the vertical ie AG so yeah - angle OAG is beta (as listed in the wording)

As for alpha, it says the vertex is at O has a semi-vertical angle alpha although im a little iffy with this part.
 

pokka

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usually semi-vertical angle means half the vertex angle of the cone if you want to interpret it that way. Hint: angle AGC is alpha+beta due to sum of int. angles equalling ext. angle. I recommend that you draw the triangles AOC and AGC separately so you can find tan (alpha) and tan (alpha+beta) then work from there keeping in mind of the ratio given to you :)
 

AAEldar

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That's like the 3rd time I've posted that pic here, did it for Spiral over a year ago >.< hahaha.
 
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For Beta, AG is the vertical and AO is the line. Hence the angle formed is OAG or GAO.
So the line AO makes an angle with the vertical ie AG so yeah - angle OAG is beta (as listed in the wording)

As for alpha, it says the vertex is at O has a semi-vertical angle alpha although im a little iffy with this part.
ah thanks, I initially thought two different angles (acute/obtuse) angles can be formed from two lines intersecting, however I forgot to realise only OAG was applicable to the question lol

thank you very much :) I really appreciate it

usually semi-vertical angle means half the vertex angle of the cone if you want to interpret it that way. Hint: angle AGC is alpha+beta due to sum of int. angles equalling ext. angle. I recommend that you draw the triangles AOC and AGC separately so you can find tan (alpha) and tan (alpha+beta) then work from there keeping in mind of the ratio given to you :)
Thanks for explaining :)

Wasn't sure what a "semi-vertical" angle was before lol. It all makes sense now
 

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