Shape and Space 3
3 marks · EasyA lamp post stands vertically. From a point 6 metres away from the base of the lamp post, the angle of elevation to the top of the lamp post is 35°.
Write down the trigonometric ratio you would use to calculate the height of the lamp post.
Calculate the height of the lamp post. Give your answer to 3 significant figures.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
Show answer
(a) tangent (tan)
(b) 4.20 m
Common mistakes: using sine or cosine instead of tangent
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · Correctly identifies the tangent ratio.
M1 (b) · 1 mark · Correct substitution into tan formula or rearrangement.
A1 (b) · 1 mark · Gives correct answer for height: 4.20 m (to 3 significant figures).
Worked solution
Let the height be m. We have: