Problem 90 - Algebra and Trigonometry

Question

Describe what is meant by an angle of elevation and an angle of depression.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

An angle of elevation is the angle between the horizontal line from the observer and the line of sight when looking upward at an object above our horizontal line of sight. An angle of depression, similarly, is the angle between the horizontal line from the observer and the line of sight when looking downward at an object below our horizontal line of sight.

Step 1: Explain Angle of Elevation

The angle of elevation is the angle formed by the line of sight when looking upward at an object above our horizontal line of sight. That is, it is the angle between the horizontal line from the observer and the line of sight to the object being observed. Imagine a scenario where you're looking up at a bird in the sky, the angle your line of sight makes with a line drawn horizontally to your eye level is the angle of elevation.

Step 2: Explain Angle of Depression

On the other hand, the angle of depression is the angle formed by the line of sight when looking downward at an object below our horizontal line of sight. This is the angle between the horizontal line from the observer and the line of sight to the object. For example, if you are looking down from a skyscraper at a car on the ground, the angle between the horizontal line to your eye level and your line of sight to the car is the angle of depression.