Worksheets · Foundation and Higher

Right-triangle trigonometry in two dimensions

3 exam-style questions. Answers and the mark for each step are on the last page.

  1. Question 1Calculator · 2 marks

    (a) A straight ramp is 4.8 m long and makes an angle of 11∘11^\circ with level ground. Work out the vertical rise of the ramp. Give your answer to 2 decimal places. (2)

  2. Question 2Calculator · 4 marks

    From a point 9 m from a vertical tower on level ground, the angle of elevation of the top is 35∘35^\circ.

    (a) Calculate the height of the tower, to 2 decimal places. (2)

    (b) The observer walks to twice the original distance. Calculate the new angle of elevation to 1 decimal place. (2)

  3. Question 3Calculator · 3 marks

    (a) A vertical mast stands on horizontal ground at B. Points P and Q lie on a straight line with B, with P between B and Q. PQ = 35 m. The angles of elevation of the top of the mast from P and Q are 47∘47^\circ and 29∘29^\circ, respectively. Work out the height of the mast. Give your answer to 1 decimal place. You must show your working. (3)

Answers and marks

Question 1

(a) 0.920.92 m

  • P1 Establishing 4.8×sin⁡(11)4.8\times \sin(11) or an equivalent valid method.
  • A1 Correct answer: 0.920.92 m

Question 2

(a) 6.306.30 m

  • M1 The height is opposite and the ground distance adjacent.
  • A1 Correct answer: 6.306.30 m

(b) 19.319.3°

  • P1 Keep the same height and use twice the horizontal distance.
  • A1 Correct answer: 19.319.3°

Question 3

(a) 40.240.2 m

  • P1 Let BP = x metres and mast height = h metres. Then BQ = x + 35.
  • P1 Establishing 35/(1/tan⁡(29)−1/tan⁡(47))35/(1/\tan(29)-1/\tan(47)) or an equivalent valid method.
  • A1 Correct answer: 40.240.2 m

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Right-triangle trigonometry in two dimensions

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Independent practice for Pearson Edexcel GCSE Mathematics (1MA1), not endorsed by Pearson.

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