Edexcel A-Level Physics Trigonometry in Physical Problems

Review trigonometry in physical problems in Edexcel A-Level Physics through track gradients, angular measurements and distance-based size estimates.

Exam points

use tan θ from a percentage gradient to show the angle a track makes with the horizontal
combine an estimated distance with an observed angle to determine a physical size such as diameter

[Maximum number: 1]

The luge is an event at the Winter Olympics. An athlete lies on a small sledge and races down an icy track, feet first.

Figure for Question C.4.5—Trigonometry in physical problems question 1 — Edexcel A-Level Physics AS

After the finish line there is a straight, uphill section of track for the sledge to decelerate in. The maximum permitted gradient of this section is 20%.

Show that a track with a gradient of 20% is at an angle $\theta$ to the horizontal of about $11^{\circ}$ .

See $\theta=\tan^{-1}(0.2)$ and $\theta=11.3^{\circ}$ .

Or see $\tan\theta=0.2$ and $\theta=11.3^{\circ}$ .

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C.4.5—Trigonometry in physical problems question 1