An observer in a lighthouse 350 feet above sea level observes two ships directly offshore. The angles of depression to the ships are β = 3° and θ = 4.5° (see figure). How far apart are the ships? (Round your answer to one decimal place.)

Question

ranga · Answer

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ranga · Answer

tan(3) = 350 / BD 
BD = 350 / tan(3) = ?  (set angle to degrees in your calculator)

tan(4.5) = 350 / BC
BC = 350 / tan(4.5) = ?

CD = BD - BC = ?