Formula Used:
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The formula \( S_a = S_b \times \cos(\angle C) + S_c \times \cos(\angle B) \) calculates the length of side A of a triangle when given sides B and C and their respective opposite angles B and C. This formula is derived from the Law of Cosines and trigonometric relationships in triangles.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula combines the cosine functions of two angles with their adjacent sides to determine the length of the third side of the triangle.
Details: Calculating unknown sides of triangles is fundamental in geometry, trigonometry, and various practical applications including engineering, architecture, navigation, and physics problems involving vector components.
Tips: Enter side lengths in meters and angles in degrees. All values must be positive numbers. Angles should be between 0° and 180° for valid triangle angles.
Q1: Why convert angles from degrees to radians?
A: Trigonometric functions in programming languages typically use radians as the default unit, so conversion is necessary for accurate calculations.
Q2: What types of triangles does this formula work for?
A: This formula works for all types of triangles - acute, obtuse, and right triangles, as long as you have the required two sides and their opposite angles.
Q3: Are there any limitations to this formula?
A: The formula requires knowledge of two sides and their opposite angles. It may not be applicable if you have different combinations of known values.
Q4: How accurate are the results?
A: The results are mathematically exact for the given inputs, though practical accuracy depends on the precision of your input measurements.
Q5: Can this be used for three-dimensional triangles?
A: No, this formula is specifically for two-dimensional planar triangles. Three-dimensional triangles require different geometric approaches.