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Module No. 2: Right Triangle

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Time Allotment: 5 Hours

Overview

In plane sailing the figure formed by the meridian through the point of departure, the parallel
through the point of arrival, and the course line is considered a plane right triangle (Bowditch, 2017).
Thus, in solving for distance, difference in latitude and difference in longitude, you may encounter
concept such as the square of the distance (D) is equal to the sum of squares of the difference in latitude
(D.Lat) and difference longitude (D.Lo) that is expressed by 𝐷 2 = (𝐷. 𝐿𝑎𝑡)2 + (𝐷. 𝐿𝑜)2. This concept
actually has its roots from the basic mathematical concepts of Pythagorean theorem, 𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 .
In this module you will focus on understanding solving the parts, angles and sides, of a right
triangle that later on can be applied in solving problems in sailing such as in plane sailing.

Learning Objectives

At the end of the module, the students should be able to demonstrate mathematical knowledge and
skills in solving problems involving Plane Trigonometry.
Specifically, students are expected to:
1. determine the parts of a right plane triangle applying Pythagorean theorem.
2. determine the parts of a right plane triangle using trigonometric functions.
3. solve problems involving angle of elevation and depression.

You will come across the following terms in this module. Be able to learn them well in relation to
this topic:

Adjacent side of a right triangle. The adjacent side is the non-hypotenuse side that is next to a
given angle. www.khanacademy.org

Hypotenuse. The hypotenuse of a right triangle is always the side opposite the right angle. It is
the longest side in a right triangle. www.khanacademy.org

Legs of a right triangle. The legs of a right triangle are the two sides that intersect to determine
the right angle. http://www.learnalberta.ca/

Opposite side of a right triangle. The opposite side is across from a given angle.
www.khanacademy.org

Right triangle. A right triangle is a type of triangle that has one angle that measures
90°. www.calculator.net