Page 8 – Images & Data (Expanded)
Example 1: The Great Pyramid of Giza
Suppose an observer stands 100 m away from the base of the pyramid. The angle of
elevation to the top is measured as 56°. Using trigonometry:
tan θ = Height / Distance
tan 56° = Height / 100
Height = 100 × tan 56° ≈ 147.6 m
👉 This matches the historical height of the pyramid (about 146.6 m).
Example 2: Qutub Minar (Delhi)
Distance from the base = 80 m
Angle of elevation = 72°
Height = 80 × tan 72° ≈ 246 m
👉 Actual height of Qutub Minar = 73 m, so the observer’s point may have been at a slope or
different level.
Example 3: Bridge Arch
In bridges, the parabolic arch is designed using trigonometric sine & cosine functions.
Engineers calculate the height at midpoint and curve strength using:
y = a sin θ or y = a cos θ
Example 4: Dome of Taj Mahal
Domes are shaped like hemispheres. Architects use trigonometric formulas to calculate
radius and curvature.
For a dome with radius R = 20 m:
- Height at center = R = 20 m
- At 60° from base: height = R × sin 60° = 20 × 0.866 ≈ 17.32 m