Question Analysis
This question focuses on using the properties of 45 - 45 - 90 and 30 - 60 - 90 right - triangles to find the value of . The key is applying the side - length relationships specific to these special triangles.
Key Concept Explanation
45 - 45 - 90 triangle: In a 45 - 45 - 90 triangle, if the leg has length , the hypotenuse has length .
30 - 60 - 90 triangle: In a 30 - 60 - 90 triangle, if the short leg (opposite 30°) has length , the long leg (opposite 60°) has length , and the hypotenuse (opposite 90°) has length .
Step - by - Step Solution
1. Analyze the 30 - 60 - 90 triangle:
The side with length is the hypotenuse of the 30 - 60 - 90 triangle. Let the short leg (opposite 30°) be .
Using the formula hypotenuse , and since the hypotenuse is , we solve for :
The long leg (opposite 60°) of the 30 - 60 - 90 triangle is