college algebra

profileNwadiogujr
  • 3 years ago
  • 10
files (2)

math1414_lab5.pdf

The Angle of Elevation of the Sun

Note: You will need another person to help you take measurements for this lab.

1. Go outside on a sunny day and measure your height and length of the shadow you cast at two different times of day (at least 3 hours apart) on two different days.

What is your height in inches? _________________

Day 1: Date____________ Day 2: Date ___________

Time #1: Time #1

Length of shadow in inches: Length of shadow in inches:

Time #2: Time #2

Length of shadow in inches: Length of shadow in inches:

2. Create FOUR right triangles based on your height and lengths of the shadows above.

a) Label the sides of your sketches with your measurements and angle of elevation. b) Solve for the angle of elevation to the sun while clearly showing all of your steps.

3. Answer the following questions—

a) What does the hypotenuse in your drawings represent?

b) Based on your calculations, what is the angle of elevation (in degrees) of the sun when your shadow is the longest? (Round to 1 decimal place).

c) Based on your calculations, what is the angle of elevation (in degrees) of the sun when

your shadow is the shortest? (Round to 1 decimal place).

d) During what time of day do you think your shadow is the longest? Explain why.

e) During what time of day do you think your shadow is the shortest? Explain why.