AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL

CHAPTER

28 HEIGHTS AND DISTANCES

Chapter Highlights
Inverse Functions, Inverse Trigonometric Functions, Domain and Range of Inverse Trigonometric Functions, Graphs
of Inverse Trigonometric Functions, Principal Values for Inverse Trigonometric Functions, Properties of Inverse
Trigonometric Functions, Solutions of Basic Inverse Trigonometric Inequalities, Some useful Substitutions.

One of the applications of trigonometry is to estimate

heights of objects and distance between points, without
actually measuring these heights and distances.

SOME TERMINOLOGY RELATED TO HEIGHT

AND DISTANCE
Angle of elevation and angle of depression
If a horizontal line is drawn from the eye of the observer
(O) and an object P is above this line OX, then ∠POX is
called angle of elevation.
Fig. 28.2

NORTH EAST
North-east means equal-
ly inclined to north and east,
south-east means equally
inclined to south and east. ENE
means equally inclined to east
and northeast.

Fig. 28.1 BEARINGS OF A POINT

If an object Q is below the horizontal line OX, then ∠QOX
is called angle of depression. Let EW be a line in the east-west direction and NS be a line
perpendicular to it in the north-south direction. Let the two
lines intersect at O.
28.2 Chapter 28
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
Let P be any point. The acute angle which OP makes 3. In an isosceles triangle, the median is perpendicular
with NS is called the bearing of the point P from O. The to the base i.e., AD ⊥ BC
bearing of a point is briefly indicated by giving the size of
the acute angle and specifying whether it is measured from
ON or OS and whether to the east or west.
In the Fig.

Fig. 28.7
4.

Fig. 28.4
1. OA is in the direction 60º east of north and the bear-
ing of A is written as N 60º E.
2. OB is in the direction 30º west of north and the bear-
ing of B is written as N 30º W. Fig. 28.8
3. OC is in the direction 40º west of south and the bear- BC
In a triangle ABC, if ED || AB, then AB =
=
ing of C is written as S 40º W. ED DC
4. OD is in the direction 75º east of south and the bear- AC
.
ing of D is written as S 75º E. EC
5. In a triangle ABC, if AD is the angle bisector of
SOME PROPERTIES RELATED TO TRIANGLE ∠BAC, then

1. In any triangle ABC BD AB c

= =
DC AC b
a b c
= =
sin A sin B sin C

Fig. 28.5 Fig. 28.9

2. In any triangle ABC, if BD : DC = m : n, ∠BAD = α, 6. In a triangle ABC, if Ad is the external angle bisector
∠CAD = β and ∠ADC = θ, then of ∠A, then
(a) (m + n) cot θ = m cot α – n cot β BD AB c
= =
(b) (m + n) cot θ = n cot B – m cot C CD AC b

Fig. 28.6
Fig. 28.10
 Heights and Distances 28.3
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
7. In a triangle ABC, the exterior angle is equal to the (A) 50 (3 – 3 ) m (B) 200 (3 – 3 ) m
sum of interior opposite angles. (C) 100 (3 – 3 ) m (D) none of these
Solution: (C)
Let AB be the cliff with AB = 300 m
Let DE be the tower with height h m.
Let BE = x m.
In right angled ∆ABE,

   AB = tan 45º
BE
Fig. 28.11
300
θ=α+β ⇒ = 1 ⇒ x = 300 m
x
In right angled ∆ACD
SOLVED EXAMPLES AC 300 - h 1
= tan 30º ⇒ =
CD x 3
1. A tower subtends an angle α at a point on the same 300 - h 1
⇒ = ⇒ 300 3 – 3h = 300
level as the root of the tower and at a second point, b 300 3
metres above the first, the angle of depression of the
foot of the tower is β. The height of the tower is 300 ( 3 -1)
⇒ h= ⇒ h = 100 3 ( 3 – 1) m
(A) b cot α tan β (B) b tan α tan β 3
(C) b tan α cot β (D) none of these ⇒ h = 100 (3 – 3 )m
Solution: (C)
3. At the foot of the mountain the elevation of its summit
From the figure, in right ∠d ∆ABD is 45º; after ascending 1000m towards the mountain up
a slope of 30º inclination, the elevation is found to be
60º. The height of the mountain is

(A) 3 +1 m (B) 3 -1 m
2 2
3 +1
(C) m (D) none of these
2 3
AB = tan α, Solution: (A)
BD Let P be the summit of the mountain and Q be the foot.
h Let A be the first position and B the second position of
∴ = tan α ⇒ h = x tan α...(1) observation. BN and BM are ⊥s from B to PQ and AQ
x
respectively.
BE
In right ∠d ∆BCE, = tan β
EC
b b
⇒ = tan β, ∴ x = ...(2)
x tan b
From (1) and (2), we get
b
∴ h= × tan α = b tan α cot β
tan b
2. From the top of a cliff 300 metres high, the top of
a tower was observed at an angle of depression 30º
and from the foot of the tower the top of the cliff was Then AB = 1000 m = 1km,
observed at an angle of elevation 45º. The height of the ∠MAB = 30º,
tower is
28.4 Chapter 28
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
∠MAP = 45º, ∠NBP = 60º Solution: (B)
Now, ∠BAP = ∠MAP – ∠MAB = 45º – 30º = 15º Let ABC be an equilateral triangle with each side = a,
∠APB = ∠APN – ∠BPN = 45º – 30º = 15º AP be the pillar of height, making angle of 45º at C,
∴ ∆ABP is isosceles and ∴ AB = BP then AC = h tan 45º = h ⇒ a = h.
But AB = 1 kilometre, ∴ BP = 1 kilometre. If the elevation of the pillar at D is θ. (see figure)
Now, PQ = PN + NQ = PN + BM h
= BP sin 60º + AB sin 30º Then, tan θ = h =
AD 3 a/2
= 1⋅ 3 + 1⋅ 1 = 3 +1 m
2 2 2 2h 2
= =
4. A balloon moving in a straight line passes vertically 3a 3
above two points A and B on a horizontal plane 1000  2 
⇒ θ = tan  
−1
ft apart; when above A it has an altitude of 60º as seen  3
from B. When above B it has an attitude of 45º as seen
from A. The distance of B from the point C where it 6. A pole of length h stands inside
will touch the plane is: a triangular plot ABC and sub-
tends equal angles α at its vertices, then
(A) 500( 3 + 1) ft (B) 1500 ft
(A) 2h cos α sin A = a sin α
(B) 500 (3 + 3 ) ft (D) none of these (B) 2h cos α sin C = c sin α
(C) 2h cos α sin B = b sin α
Solution: (A) (D) 2h cot α = R
In ∆ABE,
Solution: (A)
From the figure (if PQ is the pole of height h),
BQ = h cot α = CQ = AQ
∴ Q is the circumcentre of ∆ABC.
a
Hence, = 2R = 2h cot α
sin A
⇒ a sin α = 2h cos α sin A
h
tan 45º = ⇒ h = 1000 ft ...(1)
1000
and in ∆ABD,
H
tan 60º = ⇒ H = 1000 3 ft ...(2)
1000
H h
Also, = (Similar triangles)
1000 BC
1000 3 1000
⇒ =  [using Eq. (1) and (2)]
1000 + x x
SOME PROPERTIES RELATED TO CIRCLE
⇒ 3x = 1000 + x
1. The angle subtended by
1000 any chord at the centre
⇒ x= = 500( 3 + 1) ft.
3 -1 is twice the angle sub-
tended by the same at any
5. ABC is a triangular park with all sides equal. If a pillar
point on the circumfer-
at A subtends an angle of 45° at C, the angle of eleva-
ence of the circle.
tion of the pillar at D, the middle point of BC is
2. If two secants AB and
-1
(A) tan ( 3 / 2) (B) tan-1 ( 2 / 3 ) PQ of a circle meet at
point ‘O’, then OA.OB =
(C) cot -1 3 (D) tan-1 3 Fig. 28.12
OP.OQ.
 Heights and Distances 28.5
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL

Fig. 28.13
3. If the line joining two points A and B subtends the
greatest angle α, at a point P on a given line XX' then
the circle, through A, B and P will touch the straight
line XX' at the point P.
Fig. 28.17

SOLVED EXAMPLE

7. Two poles of height a and b stand at the centres of two

circular plots which touch each other externally at a
point and the two poles subtend angles of 30º and 60º
respectively at this point, then distance between the
Fig. 28.14 centres of these plots is
(A) a + b (B) (3a + b) 3
4. Angles in the same segment of a circle are equal i.e,
∠APB = ∠AQB = ∠ARB. (C) ( a + 3b) / 3 (D) a 3 + b

Solution: (B)
Let A and B be the centres of the two circles where
the poles of height a and b respectively stand making
angles 30º and 60º respectively at the point O where
these circles touch each other externally.

Fig. 28.15
5. Angles in the alternate segments of a circle are equal.

Sum of the radii of the two circles

= a cot 30º + b cot 60º
Fig. 28.16 b 3a + b
= a 3+ =
6. PAB is a secant of a circle and PT is tangent then 3 3
PA ⋅ PB = PT2 = distance between the centres of the two circles.
28.6 Chapter 28
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
TRICK(S) FOR PROBLEM SOLVING ∴ BP = AB sin 30º = 10 × 1 = 5 cm.
(a) If a line l is perpendicular to a plane π then the line l is 2
perpendicular to any line m in the plane π [See fig. (i)] From right ∠d ∆BPC, we have BP2 + PC2 = BC2
(b) If a line l is perpendicular to two intersecting lines m ⇒ 52 + PC2 = 62
and n then the line l is perpendicular to the plane π ⇒ PC2 = 62 – 52 = (6 – 5) (6 + 5) = 11
passing through the lines m and n [see fig. (ii)] ∴ PC = 11 cm. (∴ longer diagonal)
AC = AP + PC = 5 3 + 11
9. The top of two poles of height 20 m and 14 m are con-
nected by a wire. If the wire makes an angle 30º with
the horizontal, then the length of the wire is
(A) 12 m (B) 8 m
(C) 10 m (D) 6 m
Solution: (A)
  (i)  (ii)
Fig. 28.18
Let AB = 20 and CD = 14 be the two poles.
AC = l is the length of the wire.
(c) 
PQ is perpendicular to the horizontal plane and the
lines QA, QB, QC, ... are in the plane. Then from geom-
CE, the horizontal through    C . ACE = 30º
AE
etry, we know that PQ ⊥ QA, PQ ⊥ QB, PQ ⊥ QC, ... = sin 30º = 1
Hence the triangles PQA, PQB, PQC, ... are all right l 2
angled triangles where ∠PQA = 90º, ∠PQB = 90º, ∴ l = 2AE = 12m
∠PQC = 90º, ...

SOLVED EXAMPLES

8. The longer side of a parallelogram is 10 cm and the

shorter is 6 cm. If the longer diagonal makes an angle
30º with the longer side, the length of the longer diag-
onal is
(A) 5 3 + 11 (B) 4 3 + 11
(C) 5 3 + 13 (D) none of these
10. A vertical tower stands on a declivity which is inclined
Solution: (A) at 15º to the horizontal. From the foot of the tower a
Draw BP ⊥ AC, the longer diagonal. From right ∠d man ascends the declivity for 80 feet and then finds
∆APB, we have that the tower subtends an angle of 30º. The height of
AP = cos 30º the tower is
AB (A) 20 ( 6 - 2 ) (B) 40 ( 6 - 2 )

(C) 40 ( 6 + 2 ) (D) none of these

Solution: (B)
Let BC be the declivity and BA be the tower.
BC AB
=
sin 75° sin 30°
⇒ AP = AB cos 30º
80 sin 30°
⇒ AB =
∴ AP = 10 × 3 = 5 3 cm. sin 75°
2
Also, BP = sin 30º 40 × 2 2
AB = = 40( 6 − 2 )
AB 3 +1
 Heights and Distances 28.7
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
H sin (β − α ) h cot α
5. h = or H =
cos α sin β cot α − cot β

SOME IMPORTANT RESULTS

hsin (β − α )
1. a = h(cot α – cot β) =
sin α sin β Fig. 28.23
∴
h = a sin α sin β cosec(β – α) and
∴
d = h cot β = a sin α ⋅ cos β ⋅ cosec(β – α) a sin (α + β)
6. H =
sin (β − α )

Fig. 28.19

2. H = x cot α tan(α + β)

Fig. 28.24

 α + β 
7. AB = CD. Then, x = y tan 
 2 

Fig. 28.20

3. a = h(cot α + cot β)
h = a sin α ⋅ sin β cosec(α + β)
d = h cot β = a sin α ⋅ cos β ⋅ cosec(α + β)

Fig. 28.25
d
8. h =
Fig. 28.21 cot β + cot 2α
2

h cot β
4. H =
cot α
28.8 Chapter 28
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL

Fig. 28.29

SOLVED EXAMPLES
Fig. 28.26
AB 11. The angle of elevation of a tower from a point A due
9. h = 2 2 south of it is x and from a point B due east of A is y. If
cot β − cot α AB = l, then the height h of the tower is given by
l l
(A) 2 2   (B)
cot y - cot x tan y - tan 2 x
2

2l
(C)   (D) none of these
cot y - cot 2 x
2

Solution: (A)
Let OP be the tower of height h.
In right ∠d ∆OAP,
∠OAP = x
OA
= cot x
h
Fig. 28.27 ⇒ OA = h cot x ...(1)
10. h = AP sin α
  = a sin α ⋅ sinγ ⋅ cosec(β – γ) and if AQ = d, then
d = AP cos α = a cos α sin γ ⋅ cosec(β – γ)

In right ∠d ∆OBP, ∠OBP = y

OB
∴ = cot y ⇒ OB = h cot y ...(2)
h
In right ∠d ∆OAB, AB2 + OA2 = OB2
∴ l2 + h2 cot2 x = h2 cot2 y
⇒ h2 (cot2 y – cot2 x) = l2
l
Fig. 28.28
∴ h=
cot y - cot 2 x
2

11. AP = a sin γ ⋅ cosec(α – γ),

AQ = a sin δ ⋅ cosec(β – δ), 12. PQ is a post of given height a, and AB is a tower at
and apply, PQ2 = AP2 + AQ2 – 2AP ⋅ AQ cos θ some distance; α and β are the angles of elevation of
B, the top of the tower, at P and Q respectively. The
height of the tower and its distance from the post are
 Heights and Distances 28.9
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
a sin α cos β a cos α cos β (c + c) cot (θ – 30º) = c cot 15º – c cot 30º
(A) (B)
sin (α − β ) sin (α − β ) 1 sin (30 ”-15”)
or cot (θ – 30º) =
a sin α sin β 2 sin 15”sin 30 ”
(C) (D) none of these 1 1
sin (α − β ) or cot (θ – 30º) =
2 sin 30 ”
Solution: (A) = 1 = cot 45º
Let AB = h be the height of tower at a distance x from ⇒ θ – 30º = 45º ∴ θ = 75º
the post of PQ = a.
AB subtends angles α and β at P and Q respectively. 14. A pole stands vertically on the centre of a sqaure.
We have to determine h and x in terms of known quan- When α is the elevation of the sun, its shadow just
tities α, β and a. reaches the side of the square and is at a distance x and
y from the ends of that side. The height of the pole is
x2 + y2 x2 + y2
(A) tan α (b) cot α
2 2
x2 - y2
(C) tan α (d) none of these
2
Solution: (A)
AB = x tan α; BR = x tan β
Let O be the centre of the square, OP the pole. Shadow
∴ PQ = AR = AB – BR = x (tan α – tan β)
of the pole OP is OQ. From question, BQ = y and CQ
PQ a = x. Then, BC = x + y
∴ x= =
tan α − tan β tan α − tan β Let OR ⊥ BC.
a cos α cos β ∴ OR = x + y
= 2
sin (α − β )
and BR = y
∴ h = AB = x tan α
a cos α cos β sin α ∴ RQ = x + y – y = x - y
= ⋅ 2 2
sin (α − β ) cos α
Let h be the height of the pole.
a sin α cos β From right angled triangle POQ,
=
sin (α − β ) h
tan α =
13. A man observes that when he moves up a distance c OQ
metres on a slope, the angle of depression of a point on ∴ OQ = h cot α
the horizontal plane from the base of the slope is 30º, Now, from right angled ∆ORQ, OQ2 = OR2 + RQ2
and when he moves up further a distance c metres the 2
 x + y   x − y 
2

⇒ h2 cot2α =  +
 2   2 
angle of depression of that point is 45º. The angle of
inclination of the slope with the horizontal is
2 2
(A) 60º (B) 45º ⇒ h2 cot2 α = 2 ( x + y )
(C) 75º (D) 30º 4
Solution: (C) x2 + y2
∴ h= tan α
Applying m – n theorem of trigonometry, we get 2

15. A tower leans towards west making an angle α with

the vertical. The angular elevation of B, the top most
point of the tower, is β as observed from a point C due
east of A at a distance d from A. If the angular eleva-
tion of B from a point due east of C at a distance 2d
from C is γ, then 2 tan α can be written as
(A) 3 cot β – 2cot γ (B) 3 cot γ – 2cot β
(C) 3 cot β – cot γ (D) cot β – 3cot γ
28.10 Chapter 28
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
Solution: (C) off horizontally straight away from the observer and in
By (m – n) theorem, we have one second the elevation of the bird is reduced to 30º.
The speed of the bird is
(A) 14.64 m/s (B) 17.71 m/s
(C) 12 m/s (d) none of these
Solution: (A)
Let the bird be perched at B, the top of the tree BD,
and O be the observer. Then, ∠BOD = 45º and BD =
20 metres.
Now, the bird flying horizontally reaches M in 1
second.
π 
(d + 2d)cotβ = d cot γ – 2d cot  + α 
 2 
⇒ 3 cotβ = cotγ + 2tanα
∴ 2 tan α = 3 cot β – cot γ
16. If from the top of a tower, 60 metre high, the angles
of depression of the top and floor of a house are α
and β respectively and if the height of the house is
60 sin(β − α ) Then, ∠ΜΟΝ = 30º, where MN ⊥ ON.
, then x = Now, BD = MN = 20 metres
x
From triangle BOD,
(A) sin α sin β (B) cos α cos β
(C) sin α cos β (D) cos α sin β BD 20
tan 45º = = ⇒ OD = 20 metres
OD OD
Solution: (D)
Again from ∆MON,
Let d be the distance between the tower and house
∴ d = 60 cot β MN 20
tan 30º = =
⇒ d = (60 – h) cot α ON 20 + DN
⇒ 60 cotβ = (60 – h) cot α 1 20
60 (cot α − cot β) ⇒ = or 20 + DN = 20 3
⇒ h= 3 20 + DN
cot α
∴   DN = 20( 3 - 1) = 20 × 0.732 = 14.64 meters.
60 sin(β − α )
⇒ h= (given) Distance
x ∴ Speed = = BM = DN = 14.64 m/s
time 1 1
18. Due south of a tower which is leaning towards north
there are two stations at distances x and y respectively
from its foot. If α, β respectively be the angles of ele-
vation of the top of the tower at these stations, then the
inclination θ of the tower to the horizontal is given by
cot θ =
y cot α − x cot β y cot α + x cot β
(A) (B)
y−x y−x
y cot α − x cot β y tan α − x sin β
60[sin(β − α )] (C) (D)
⇒ h= × sin α y+x y−x
sin α sin β cos α
Solution: (A)
∴ x = cos α sin β
By (m – n) theorem, we have
17. A bird is perched on the top of a tree 20m high and
its elevation from a point on the ground is 45º. It flies
 Heights and Distances 28.11
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
1
(C) 1 (D)
4 5
Solution: (A)
Let AB = a. Then OC = 2a

(x + y – x) cotα = x cot β – (y – x) cot(π – θ)

y cot α − x cot β
∴   cot θ =
y−x

19. The elevation of C from A and B are α and β respec-

tively. B is vertically above A and AB is equal to half
the height of C above the level of A. Then, cot α tan β ∠CAO = α, ∠CBL = β
is equal to OA = 2a cot α = a cot β
1
(A) 1 (B) ∴ cot α tan β = 1
2 3 2

EXERCISES

Single Option Correct Type

a2 + b2
1. The angle of elevation of the top of a vertical pole (A) (B)
2 a2 + b2
when observed from each vertex of a regular hexagon
p a2 - b2
is . If the area of the circle circumscribing the hexa- (C) (D)
3 2 a2 - b2
gon be A sq. metre, then the area of the hexagon is
3. A and B are two points in the horizontal plane
(A) 3 3 A sq. metres through O, the foot of pillar OP of height h, such that
2 ∆AOB = θ. If the elevation of the top of the pilar from
A and B are also equal to θ, then AB is equal to
(B) 3 3 A sq. metres
p
(A) hcotθ (B) h cos q sec q
2
(C) 3 3 A sq. metres
2 p (C) h cot q sin q (D) h cos q cosec q
(D) none of these 2 2
4. A flag is mounted on the semicircular dome of radius
2. Two straight roads OA and OB intersect at O. A tower r. The elevation of the top of the flag at any point
is situated within the angle formed by them and sub- on the ground is 30º. Moving d distance towards the
tends angles of 45º and 30º at the points A and B where dome, when the flag is just visible the angle of eleva-
the roads are nearest to it. If OA = a and OB = b, then tion is 45º. The relation between r and d is
the height of the tower is d 2 2
(A) r = (B) r = d
2 ( 3 - 1) 3 +1
28.12 Chapter 28
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
(A) 33 (B) 38
d 2 2
(C) r = (D) r = d (C) 57 (D) 88
2 ( 3 + 1) 3 -1
11. A stationary balloon is observed from three points A,
5. An observer finds that the angular elevation of a tower B and C on the plane ground and is found that its angle
is A. On advancing 3 m towards the tower the elevation of elevation from each point is α. If ∠ABC = β and
is 45º and on advancing 2m nearer, the elevation is 90º AC = b, the height of the balloon is
– A. The height of the tower is
(A) 2 m (B) 4 m (A) b tan α cosec β (B) b tan α sin β
(C) 6 m (D) 8 m 2 2

6. A lamp post standing at a point A on a circular path (C) b cot α cosec β (D) b cot α sin β
of radius r subtends an angle α at some point B on 2 2
the path, and AB subtends an angle of 45º at any other 12. The angular elevation of tower CD at a point A due
point on the path, then height of the lampost is south of it is 60º and at a point B due west of A, the
(A) 2 r cot a (B) ( r / 2 ) tan a elevation is 30º. If AB = 3 km, the height of the tower is

(C) 2 r tan a (D) ( r / 2 ) cot a (A) 2 3 km (B) 2 6 km

7. PQ is a vertical tower, P is the foot, Q the top of the (C) 3 3 km (D) 3 6 km

tower, A, B, C are three points in the horizontal plane 2 4
through P. The angles of elevation of Q from A, B, C 13. An isosceles triangle of wood of base 2a and height
are equal and each is equal to θ. The sides of the trian- h is placed with its base on the ground and vertex
gle ABC are a, b, c and the area of the triangle ABC is directly above. The triangle faces the sun whose alti-
∆. The height of the tower is tude is 30º. Then the tangent of the angle at the apex of
(A) (abc) tan θ /4∆ (B) (abc) cot θ /4∆ the shadow is
(C) (abc) tan θ /4∆ (D) none of these 2ha 2ha 3
(A) (B)
8. The angle of elevation of a cloud from a point h 3 3h2 - a 2
metres above the surface of a lake is θ and the angles
a 2 + h2 2ah 3
of depression of its reflection is φ. Then the height of (C) (D)
the cloud is 2 3 3h2 + a 2
hsin(φ + θ) h 14. The length of the shadow of a rod inclined at 10º to
(A) (B)
sin(φ − θ) sin(φ − θ) the vertical towards the sun is 2.05 metre when the
elevation of the sun is 38º. The length of the rod is
hsin(φ − θ)
(C) h tan (φ – θ) (D) 2.05 sin 38” 2.05 cos 38”
sin(φ + θ) (A) (B)
sin 42” sin 42”
9. A person standing at the foot of a tower walks a dis-
2.05 sin 42” 2.05 cos 42”
tance 3a away from the tower and observes that the (C) (D)
angle of elevation of the top of the tower is α. He then sin 38” sin 38”
walks a distance 4a perpendicular to the previous 15. ABCD is a rectangular field. A vertical lamp post of
direction and observes the angle of elevation to be β. height 12m stands at the corner A. If the angle of ele-
Then height of the tower is vation of its top from B is 60º and from C is 45º, then
(A) 3a tan α or 5a tan β the area of the field is
(B) 5a tan α or 3a tan β (A) 48 2sq.m (B) 48 3sq.m
(C) 4a tan β`
(D) 7a tan α (C) 48sq.m (D) 48 3sq.m
10. The angle of elevation of the top of a tree at point B 16. OAB is a triangle in the horizontal plane through the
due south of it is 60º and at a point C due north of it foot P of the tower at the middle point of the side OB
is 30º. D is a point due north of C where the angle of of he triangle. If OA = 2m, OB = 6m, AB = 5m and
elevation is 15º. If 3 = 1 8 and BC × CD = 23 × 32 ∠AOB is equal to the angle subtended by the tower at
11 A then the height of the tower is
× 19 × 11, the height of the tree is
 Heights and Distances 28.13
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
23. The angle of elevation of the top of a vertical pole
11´ 39 11´ 39
(A) (B) when observed from each vertex of a regular hexagon
25 ´ 3 25 ´ 2 p
is . If the area of the circle circumscribing the hexa-
11´ 25 3
(C) (D) none of these gon be A metre2 then the height of the tower is
39 ´ 2
2A A
17. The angle of elevation of a stationary cloud from a (A) metre (B) metre
point 2,500m above a lake is 15° and the angle of 3p 3p
depression of its reflection in the lake is 45°. The A A
(C) 2 metre (D) metre
height of the cloud above the lake level is 3p 3p
(A) 2500 3 m (B) 2500m
24. Two vertical poles AL and BM of height 20m and 80m
(C) 500 3m (D) none of these respectively stand apart on a horizontal plane. If A, B
be the feet of the poles and AM and BL intersect at P,
18. From the top of a tower 100 m height, the angles of
then the height of P is equal to
depression of two objects 200 m apart on the horizon-
tal plane and in a line passing through the foot of the (A) 50 m (B) 18 m
tower and on the same side of the tower are 45º – A and (C) 16 m (D) 15 m
45º + A. The angle A is equal to 25. From a point on a hill-side of constant inclination, the
(A) 15º (B) 35º angle of elevation of the top of a flagstaff on its summit
is observed to be α and a metre nearer the top of the
(C) 22 1 ° (D) 45º
2 hill, it is β. If h is the height of the flagstaff, the incli-
nation of the hill to the horizontal is
19. ABC is triangular park with AB = AC = 100m. A clock  
−1 a sin α sin β 
tower is situated at the mid-point of BC. The angles of (A) sin  
elevation of the top of the tower at A and B are cot–1 3.2  h sin(β − α ) 
and cosec–12.6 respectively. The height of the tower is 
−1 a sin α sin β 

(B) cos  
(A) 50m (B) 25m  h sin(β − α ) 
(C) 40m (D) none of these

−1 a sin α sin β 

(C) tan  
20. Each side of a square subtends an angle of 60º at the  h sin(β − α ) 
top of a tower h metre high standing in the centre of the
(D) none of these
square. If a is the length of each side of the square, then
(A) 2a2 = h2 (B) 2h2 = a2
(C) 3a = 2h
2 2
(D) 2h2 = 3a2 26. A flagstaff stands verticality on a pillar, the height of
the flagstaff being double the height of the pillar. A
21. A tower PQ subtends an angle α at a point A on the man on the ground at a distance finds that both the
same level as the foot Q of the tower. It also subtends pillar and the flagstaff subtend equal angles at his eyes.
the same angle α at a point at a point B where AB sub- The ratio of the height of the pillar and the distance of
tends the angle α with AP then the man from the pillar is
(A) AB = BQ (B) BQ = 2AQ (A) 3 : 1 (B) 1 : 3
AB AB 1
(C) = 1 sin a (D) = (C) 2 : 3 (D) none of these
BQ 2 BQ 2 cosec a
27. A vertical lamp-post of height 9 metres stands at the
22. A flag staff 5m high is placed on a building 25 m high. corner of a rectangular field. The angle of elevation
If flag and building both subtend equal angles on the of its top from the farthest corner is 30º, while from
observer at a height 30 m, the distance between the another corner it is 45º. The area of the field is
observer and the top of the flag is (A) 81 2 sq.m (B) 9 2 sq.m
3 (C) 9 sq. m (D) none of these
(A) 5 3 (B) 5
2 2 28. ABC is an equilateral triangular plot. An electric pole
2 5 2 stands at the vertex and makes an angle of 60º at either
(C) 5 (D)
3 3
28.14 Chapter 28
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
of the other two vertices. If the height of the triangle is
3 +1
100m, the height of the pole is (C) m (D) none of these
(A) 200 m (B) 100 m 2 3
(C) 150 m (D) none of these 34. The longer side of a parallelogram is 10 cm and the
shorter is 6 cm. If the longer diagonal makes an angle
29. A ladder rests against a wall at an angle α to the hor-
30º with the longer side, the length of the longer diag-
izontal. If the foot is pulled away through a distance
onal (in cm) is
a, it slides a distance b down the wall, finally making
 α + β  (A) 5 3 + 11 (B) 4 3 + 11
an angle β with the horizontal. Then, tan 
 2 
is
(C) 5 3 + 13 (D) none of these
equal to
a b 35. The angle of elevation of a tower from a point A due
(A) (B) south of it is x and from a point B due east of A is y. If
b a
AB = l, then the height h of the tower is given by
(C) ab (D) none of these
l l
30. If two vertical poles of height h1 and h2 standing at the (A) 2 2
(B)
cot y - cot x tan y - tan 2 x
2
middle point of the side BC and at the centroid of the
triangle ABC respectively, make the same angle at the 2l
(C) (D) none of these
h cot y - cot 2 x
2
vertex A, then 1 is equal to
h2 36. A pole stands vertically on the centre of a square.
2
(A) (B) 3 When α is the elevation of the sun, its shadow just
3 2
1 reaches the side of the square and is at a distance x and
(C) (D) none of these
3 y from the ends of that side. The height of the pole is
31. A tower AB leans towards west making an angle α
x 2 + y 2 tan α x2 + y2
with the vertical. The angular elevation of B, the top (A) (B) cot α
most point of the tower is β, as observed from a point 2 2
C due east of A at a distnace d from A. If the angular x2 - y2
elevation of B from a point due east of C at a distance (C) tan α (D) none of these
2
2d from C is γ, then
(A) 2tanα = 2 cotβ – cotγ 37. If from the top of a tower, 60 metre high, the angles
(B) 2tanα = 3 cotβ – cotγ of depression of the top and floor of a house are α
(C) tanα = cotβ – cotγ and β respectively and if the height of the house is
(D) none of these 60 sin(β − α )
, then x =
32. AB is a vertical pole with B at the ground level and A at x
the top. A man finds that the angle of elevation of the (A) sin α sin β (B) cos α cos β
point A from a certain point C on the ground is 60°. He (C) sin α cos β (D) cos α sin β
moves away from the pole along the line BC to a point 38. Due south of a tower which is leaning towards north
D such that CD = 7 m. From D the angle of elevation there are two stations at distances x and y respectively
of the point A is 45°. Then the height of the pole is from its foot. If α, β respectively be the angles of ele-
7 3 1 vation of the top of the tower at these stations, then the
(A) ⋅ m (B) 7 3 ⋅ ( 3 + 1) m
2 3 −1 2 inclination θ of the tower to the horizontal is given by
cot θ =
7 3 1
(C) 7 3 ⋅ ( 3 − 1) m (D) ⋅ y cot α − x cot β y cot α + x cot β
2 2 3 +1 (A) (B)
y−x y−x
33. At the foot of the mountain, the elevation of its summit y cot α − x cot β y tan α − x sin β
is 45º; after ascending 1000 m towards the mountain (C) (D)
y+x y−x
up a slope of 30º inclination, the elevation is found to
be 60º. The height of the mountain is 39. Two straight roads OA and OB intersect at O. A tower
3 + 1 m 3 -1 m is situated within the angle formed by them and sub-
(A) (B) tends angles of 45º and 30º at the points A and B where
2 2
 Heights and Distances 28.15
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
the roads are nearest to it. If OA = a and OB = b, then hsin(φ − θ)
the height of the tower is (C) h tan (φ – θ) (D)
sin(φ + θ)
a2 + b2
(A) (B) a2 + b2 45. A person standing at the foot of a tower walks a dis-
2 tance 3a away from the tower and observes that the
a2 - b2 angle of elevation of the top of the tower is α. He then
(C) (D) a2 - b2
2 walks a distance 4a perpendicular to the previous
direction and observes the angle of elevation to be β.
40. A and B are two points in the horizontal plane through Then height of the tower is
O, the foot of pillar OP of height h, such that ∠AOB = (A) 3a tan α or 5a tan β
θ. If the elevation of the top of the pillar from A and B (B) 5a tan α or 3a tan β
are also equal to θ, then AB is equal to (C) 4a tan β`
(D) 7a tan α
(A) hcotθ (B) h cos q sec q
2 46. A stationary balloon is observed from three points A,
(C) h cot q sin q (D) h cos q cosec q B and C on the plane ground and is found that its
2 2 angle of elevation from each point is α. If ∠ABC = β
and AC = b, the height of the balloon is
41. A flag is mounted on the semicircular dome of radius r.
The elevation of the top of the flag at any point on the (A) b tan α cosec β (B) b tan α sin β
ground is 30º. Moving d distance towards the dome, 2 2
when the flag is just visible, the angle of elevation is b
(C) cot α cosec β (D) b cot α sin β
45º. The relation between r and d is 2 2
d 2 2
(A) r = (B) r = d 47. An isosceles triangle of wood of base 2a and height
2 ( 3 - 1) 3 +1 h is placed with its base on the ground and vertex
d 2 2 directly above. The triangle faces the sun whose alti-
(C) r = (D) r = d tude is 30º. Then the tangent of the angle at the apex
2 ( 3 + 1) 3 -1
of the shadow is
42. A lamp post standing at a point A on a circular path 2ha 2ha 3
of radius r subtends an angle α at some point B on the (A) (B)
3 3h2 - a 2
path, and AB subtends an angle of 45º at any other
point on the path, then height of the lampost is a 2 + h2 2ah 3
(C) (D)
(A) 2 r cot a (B) ( r / 2 ) tan a 2 3 3h2 + a 2

(C) 2 r tan a (D) ( r / 2 ) cot a 48. OAB is a triangle in the horizontal plane through the
foot P of the tower at the middle point of the side OB
43. PQ is a vertical tower, P is the foot, Q the top of the of he triangle. If OA = 2 m, OB = 6 m, AB = 5 m and
tower, A, B, C are three points in the horizontal plane ∠AOB is equal to the angle subtended by the tower at
through P. The angles of elevation of Q from A, B, C A then the height of the tower is
are equal and each is equal to θ. The sides of the trian-
gle ABC are a, b, c and the area of the triangle ABC is 11´ 39 11´ 39
(A) (B)
∆. The height of the tower is 25 ´ 3 25 ´ 2
(A) (abc) tan θ /4∆ (B) (abc) cot θ /4∆
11´ 25
(C) (abc) tan θ /4∆ (D) none of these (C) (D) none of these
39 ´ 2
44. The angle of elevation of a cloud from a point h
metres above the surface of a lake is θ and the angles 49. A tower PQ subtends an angle α at a point A on the
of depression of its reflection is φ. Then the height of same level as the foot Q of the tower. It also subtends
the cloud is the same angle α at a point at a point B where AB sub-
hsin(φ + θ) h tends the angle α with AP then
(A) (B) (A) AB = BQ (B) BQ = 2AQ
sin(φ − θ) sin(φ − θ)
AB AB
(C) = 1 sin a (D) = 1 cosec a
BQ 2 BQ 2
28.16 Chapter 28
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
50. The angle of elevation of the top of a vertical pole (A) 2tanα = 2 cotβ – cotγ
when observed from each vertex of a regular hexagon (B) 2tanα = 3 cotβ – cotγ
p (C) tanα = cotβ – cotγ
is . If the area of the circle circumscribing the hexa-
3 (D) none of these
gon be A m2 then the height of the tower is 54. Two flagstaffs stand on a horizontal plane. A and B are
2A A two points on the line joining their feet and between
(A) m (B) m
3p 3p them. The angles of elevation of the tops of the flag-
staffs as seen from A are 30° and 60º and as seen from
A A B are 60° and 45°. If AB is 30 m, then the distance
(C) 2 m (D) m
3p 3p between the flagstaffs in metres is
51. From a point on a hill-side of constant inclination, the (A) 30 + 15 3 (B) 45 + 15 3
angle of elevation of the top of a flagstaff on its summit (C) 60 – 15 3 (D) 60 + 15 3
is observed to be α and a metre nearer the top of the
55. In a cubical hall abcdpqrs with each side 10 m, G is
hill, it is β. If h is the height of the flagstaff, the incli-
the centre of the wall bcrq and T is the mid point of the
nation of the hill to the horizontal is
side AB. The angle of elevation of G at the point T is

−1 a sin α sin β 

(A) sin   1 1
 h sin(β − α )  (A) sin–1 (B) cos–1
3 3
 a sin α sin β 
(B) cos  1 1
−1
 (C) tan–1 (D) cot–1
 h sin(β − α )  3 3
 a sin α sin β 
(C) tan 
−1
 56. Two objects P and Q subtend an angle of 30º at A.
 h sin(β − α )  Length of 20 m and 10 m are measured from A at right

(D) none of these angles to AP and AQ respectively to points R and S at
each of which PQ subtends angles of 30º, the length of
52. ABC is an equilateral triangular plot. An electric pole PQ is
stands at the vertex and makes an angle of 60º at either
(A) 300 - 200 3 (B) 500 - 200 3
of the other two vertices. If the height of the triangle is
100m, the height of the pole is (C) 500 3 - 200 (D) 300
(A) 200 m (B) 100 m
(C) 150 m (D) none of these 57. At each end of a horizontal base of length 2a, the
53. A tower AB leans towards west making an angle α angular height of a certain peak is 15º and that at the
with the vertical. The angular elevation of B, the top mid point of the base is 45º, the height of the peak is
most point of the tower is β, as observed from a point ( 3 -1)a 3 ( 3 -1)a
(A) (B)
C due east of A at a distnace d from A. If the angular 2 3 21/ 3
elevation of B from a point due east of C at a distance
3 -1 3 / 4 3 -1
2d from C is γ, then (C) .3 a (D) a
6 6

More than One Option Correct Type

58. From the top of a building of height h,a tower standing 59. A person standing on the ground observes the angle of
on the ground is observed to make an angle θ. If the elevation of the top of a tower to be 30º. On walking a
horizontal distance between the building and the tower distance a in a certain direction he finds the elevation
is h, then height of the tower is of the top to be the same as before. He then walks a
2hsin θ 2h tan θ distance 5a/3 at right angles to his former direction,
(A) (B) and finds that the elevation of the top has doubled. The
sin θ + cos θ 1 + tan θ
height of the tower is
2h 2h cos θ
(C) (D)
(A) 5 / 6 a (B) 85 / 48a
1 + cot θ sin θ + cos θ

(C) 6 / 5a (D) 48 / 85a
 Heights and Distances 28.17
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
Match the Column Type

60.

I. AB is a vertical pole and C is its mid-

dle point. The end A is on the level 61.
ground and P is any point on the level I. ABC is triangular park with AB = AC =
3
ground other than A. The portion CB (A) 100 m. A clock tower is situated at the
subtends an angle β at P. If AP : AB = 5 mid-point of BC. The angles of eleva-
(A) 2
2 : 1 then tanβ = tion of the top of the tower at A and
II. The angle of elevation of the top of B are cot–13.2 and cosec–12.6 respec-
a vertical pole when observed from tively. The height of the tower is

each vertex of a regular hexagon is p .

II. Each side of a square subtends an
3 angle of 60º at the top of a tower h
If the area of the circle circumscrib- (B) 3 metre high standing in the centre of the (B) 5
ing the hexagon be A square metre, 4 square. If a is the length of each side of
the square, then a2 = kh2, where k =
then the area of the hexagon is k 3 A III. A flag staff 5 m high is placed on a
square metres, where k = p building 25 m high. If flag and build-
ing both subtend equal angles on the
observer at a height 30 m, the distance (C) 16
III. The angular elevation of tower CD at between the observer and the top of
a point A due south of it is 60º and at 3
a point B due west of A, the elevation the flag is k , where k =
3 2
is 30º. If AB = 3 km, the height of the (C)
2 IV. Two vertical poles AL and BM of
tower is k 6 km, where k = height 20 m and 80 m respectively
stand apart on a horizontal plane. If A,
IV. If two vertical poles of heights h1 and (D) 25
B be the feet of the poles and AM and
h2 standing at the middle point of the
BL intersect at P, then the height of P
side BC and at the centroid of the tri-
2 is equal to
angle ∆ABC respectively, make the (D)
9
same angle at the vertex A, then =

Assertion-Reason Type
Instructions: In the following questions an Assertion (A) is slope is 30º, and when he moves up further a distance
given followed by a Reason (R). Mark your responses from c metres the angle of depression of that point is 45º.
the following options. The angle of inclination of the slope with the hori-
(A) Assertion(A) is True and Reason(R) is zontal is 75°.
True; Reason(R) is a correct explanation for Reason: In any ∆ABC, if BD : DC = m : n, ∠BAD =
Assertion(A) α, ∠CAD = β and ∠ADC = θ, then
(B) Assertion(A) is True, Reason(R) is True; (m + n) cot θ = m cot α – n cot β
Reason(R) is not a correct explanation for 63. Assertion: A pole of length h stands inside a trian-
Assertion(A) gular plot ABC and subtends equal angles α at its
(C) Assertion(A) is True, Reason(R) is False vertices, then 2h cos α sin A = a sin α.
(D) Assertion(A) is False, Reason(R) is True Reason: For circumscribed radius R of a ∆ABC,
62. Assertion: A man observes that when he moves up a
distance c metres on a slope, the angle of depression
of a point on the horizontal plane from the base of the
28.18 Chapter 28
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
64. Assertion: A tower leans towards west making an distance 2d from C is γ, then 2 tan α = 3 cot β – cot γ
angle α with the vertical. The angular elevation of B, Reason: In any ∆ABC, if BD : DC = m : n,
the top most point of the tower, is β as observed from ∠BAD = α, ∠CAD = β and ∠ADC = θ, then
a point C due east of A at a distance d from A. If the (m + n) cot θ = m cot α – n cot β
angular elevation of B from a point due east of C at a

Previous Year’s Questions

65. A person standing on the bank of a river observes 68. A bird is sitting on the top of a vertical pole 20 m high
that the angle of elevation of the top of a tree on the which makes an angle of elevation 45° from a point
opposite bank of the river is 60° and when he retires O on the ground. It flies off horizontally straight away
40 meter away from the tree the angle of elevation from the point O. After one second, the elevation of the
becomes 30°. The breadth of the river is [2004] bird from O is reduced to 30°. Then the speed (in m/s)
(A) 20 m (B) 30 m of the bird is  [2014]
(C) 40 m (D) 60 m (A) 40 ( 2 −1) (B) 40 ( 3− 2 )
66. A tower stands at the centre of a circular park. A and
B are two points on the boundary of the park such that
AB ( = a) subtends an angle of 60° at the foot of the
(C) 20 2 (D) 20 ( 3 −1 )
tower, and the angle of elevation of the top of the tower 69. If the angles of elevation of the top of a tower from
from A or B is 30°. The height of the tower is [2007] three collinear points A, B and C, on a line leading to
the foot of the tower, are 30°, 45° and 60° respectively,
(A) 2a (B) 2a 3 then the ratio, AB : BC, is: [2015]
3
(C) a (D) a 3 (A) 3 : 2 (B) 1 : 3
3
(C) 2 : 3 (D) 3 :1
67. AB is a vertical pole with B at the ground level and
A at the top. A man finds that the angle of elevation
of the point A from a certain point C on the ground is 70. A man is walking towards a vertical pillar in a straight
60°. He moves away from the pole along the line BC path, at a uniform speed. At a certain point A on the
to a point D such that CD = 7 m. From D the angle of path, he observes that the angle of elevation of the
elevation of the point A is 45°. Then the height of the top of the pillar is 3013. After walking for 10 minutes
pole is [2008] from A in the same direction, at a point B, he observes
that the angle of elevation of the top of the pillar is 60°.
(A) 7 3 ⋅ 1 m (B) 7 3 ⋅ ( 3 + 1)m Then the time taken (in minutes) by him, form B to
2 3 −1 2 reach the pillar, is: [2016]
(A) 5 (B) 6
(C) 7 3 ⋅ ( 3 −1)m (D) 7 3 ⋅ 1 (C)10 (D) 20
2 2 3 +1

ANSWER KEYS

Single Option Correct Type

1. (C) 2. (C) 3. (B) 4. (A) 5. (C) 6. (C) 7. (A) 8. (A) 9. (A) 10. (C)
11. (A) 12. (D) 13. (B) 14. (A) 15. (A) 16. (B) 17. (A) 18. (C) 19. (B) 20. (B)
21. (D) 22. (B) 23. (D) 24. (C) 25. (B) 26. (B) 27. (A) 28. (A) 29. (A) 30. (B)
31. (B) 32. (B) 33. (A) 34. (A) 35. (A) 36. (A) 37. (D) 38. (A) 39. (C) 40. (B)
41. (A) 42. (C) 43. (A) 44. (A) 45. (A) 46. (A) 47. (B) 48. (B) 49. (D) 50. (D)
51. (B) 52. (A) 53. (B) 54. (D) 55. (A) 56. (B) 57. (C)
 Heights and Distances 28.19
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
More than One Option Correct Type
58. (A),(B) and (C) 59. (A) and (B)

Match the Column Type

60. (A) → 4; (B) → 3; (C) → 2; (D) → 3; 61. (A) → 4; (B) → 1; (C) → 2; (D) → 3

Assertion-Reason Type
62. (A) 63. (A) 64. (A)

Previous Year’s Questions

65. (A) 66. (C) 67. (B) 68. (D) 69. (D) 70. (A)

HINTS AND SOLUTIONS

Single Option Correct Type

1. If the height of the pole is h metres, then 3. (b). OA = OB = h cot θ
h
= tan 60º
circumradius
∴ circumradius
h

= metres
3
2
 h 
∴ A = π  
 3  2
Now, AB = 2AN = 2 AO sin q

3  h  3 3 A 2
∴ Area of the hexagon = 6   =
4  3  sq. metres. cos q q
2 p = 2h .sin = h cos q sec q
The correct option is (C) sin q 2 2
2. Let PQ be the tower of height h. Let PA, PB be perpendicu-
The correct option is (B)
lars from P upon OA and OB respectively.
Then, ∠PAQ = 45º 4. In ∆ACP, we have tan45º = AC
AP
∠PBQ = 30º
OA = a, OB = b
PA
= cot 45º =1 ∴ PA = h
h
PB
= cot 30º = 3 ∴ PB = 3h
h

Now, OP2 = PA2 + OA2 = PB2 + OB2
⇒ h2 + a2 = 3h2 + b2 ⇒ 2h2 = a2 – b2 ⇒ AP = AC = r + h

Also, AM = MP = MC = r
a 2 - b2
⇒ h= ∴ PC = 2r
2
Now, from ∆ACP, we have


The correct option is (C)
28.20 Chapter 28
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
PC2 = PA2 + AC2 Also, CA = CB = r ⇒ AB =
2r
⇒ 4r2 = (r + h)2 + (r + h)2 ⇒ r + h = r 2
and then h cot α =
2r
⇒ h = r( 2 -1)
1 ⇒ h = 2 r tan a.
r + h = AQ tan 30º ⇒ r + h = ( r + h + d )

3
The correct option is (C)

⇒ 3( r + h) = (r + h) + d ⇒ d = ( r + h)( 3 − 1) 7. AQ = BQ = CQ = h cot θ

⇒ d = ( 3 - 1)r 2

d
∴ r=
2 ( 3 − 1)
The correct option is (A)
5. Let PQ be the tower of height h
∠PAQ = A, ∠PBQ = 45º and ∠PCQ = 90º – A
∴ Q is circumcentre of ∆ABC
AB = 3 and BC = 2
∴ AQ = BQ = CQ = R = abc
4D
∴ h = abc tan θ
4∆
The correct option is (A)
8. Let C be the cloud and D its reflection, PB is the surface of
lake
PC = PD = H, QA = (H – h) cot θ = (H + h) cot φ
 cot θ + cot φ 
 = [h sin(θ + φ)]/sin(φ – θ)
H = h 
 cot θ − cot φ 

⇒ 3 = AB = PA – PB = h cot A – h
and 2 = BC = PB – CP = h – h tan A
h+3 h-2
∴ = cot A, = tan A
h h
h+3 h−2
∴ . = 1 ⇒ h2 + h – 6 = h2 ⇒ h = 6m.
h h
The correct option is (C)
6. Let AP be the lampost of height h at a point A on a circular
path of radius r and centre C. Let B be the point on this path
The correct option is (A)
such that ∠PBA = α, AB = h cot α.
9. Let O be the foot of the tower
Since AB subtends an angle 45º at another point of the path, it
subtends an angle of 90º at the centre C so that ∠BCA = 90º
 Heights and Distances 28.21
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
OA = 3a, AB = 4a ∴ OB = 5a h
∴ In ∆AOP, 12. From ∆CDA, x = h cot 30º =
3
h
tan α =
∴ h = 3a tan α From ∆CDB, y = h cot 30º =
3h
3a
h From ∆ABC, by Pythagarous theorem,

and in ∆OPB, tanβ =
, ∴ h = 5α tanβ.
5a
Thus, h = 3a tan α or 5 a tan β.


The correct option is (A)

10. Let A be the top of the tree OA = h B, C, D be the three

points of observation such then ∠ABO = 60º, ∠ACO =30º
and ∠ADO = 15º

x2 + 32 = y2
 h 
⇒   + 32 = ( 3h) 2 ⇒ h = 3 6 km.
 3  4
 1 
Then, BC = BO + OC = h(cot 60º + cot30) = h  3 + 
The correct option is (D)
 3 
 4  13. Height of the triangular shadow = DE = h cot 30º = h 3
=   h
 3  ∴ tan α =
a
;
CD = h cot 15º – h cot 30º = h( 2 + 3 − 3 ) = 2h h 3
4 2 tan α

So that 23 × 32 × 19 × 11 = ´ 2h 2
tan (2α) =
3 1 − tan 2 α
4 × 2 ×11 2  19 

= h � 3 = 
19  11 
⇒ h2 = 32 × 192 ⇒ h = 57
The correct option is (C)
11. Let PQ be vertical and at its end Q there is a balloon P is on
the ground
PA = PB = PC = h cot α
∴ P is circumcentre of ∆ABC and its
a
circumradius (R) = h cot α 2
h 3 2 3 ah

= =
a2 3h2 - a 2
1- 2
3h
The correct option is (B)
14. By Sine Rule

b b
⇒ 2R = ⇒ 2h cotα =
sin b sin b

∴ h = b tan α cosecβ
2

The correct option is (A)
28.22 Chapter 28
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
 2.05 11´ 39
= ⇒ h2 =
sin 38” sin ÐBSA 25 ´ 2
sin 38”× 2.05 The correct option is (B)
∴ =
sin 42” 17. From ∆ABC and ∆ABD, we have
The correct option is (A) (H – h) cot 15º = (H + h) cot45º
15. Let AE be a vertical lamp-post. Given AE = 12m.

AE

tan 45º =
AC h(cot 15” + 1)

or H =
⇒ AC = AE = 12m (cot 15” − 1)
AE 4 3
Since h = 2500
tan 60º = AE ⇒ AB =
=
AB 3
and cot 15º = 2 + 3 , we get, H = 2500 3 .
The correct option is (B)
BC = AC 2 - AB 2 = 144 - 48 = 96 = 4 6 18. The distance between the objects
= 100 [cot (45º – A) – cot (45º + A)]
Area = AB × BC = 4 3 ´ 4 6 = 48 2sq.m

1 + tan A 1 − tan A 
= 100 
− 
The correct option is (A) 1 − tan A 1 + tan A 
16. Let PQ be the tower of height h at the middle point P of the
side OB of the triangle OAB.  2 2

100  (1 + tan A) − (1 − tan A) 

=  
 1 − tan 2 A 

4 tan A
= 100.
= 200 tan2A
1- tan 2 A
∴ 200 = 200 tan 2A

OA = 2, OB = 6, AB = 5 and ∠AOB = ∠PAQ = α, then

AP = h cot α, OP = 3
2 2 + 6 2 − 52 5

From triangle OAB, cosα = =
2× 2×6 8
and from ∆ OAP
⇒ tan 2A = 1 = tan45º
°
22 + 32 − h2 cot 2 α ∴ 2A = 45º ⇒ A = 22 1
cos α = 2
2× 2×3

The correct option is (C)
25
5 13 − h2 × 11´ 39 19. DP is a clock tower standing at the middle point D of BC.
⇒ = 39 ⇒ h2 =
8 12 25 ´ 2 ∠PAD = α = cot–13.2 ⇒ cot α = 3.2
 Heights and Distances 28.23
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
and ∠PBD = β = cosec–12.6 ⇒ cosec β = 2.6
⇒ ∠ABQ = ∠AQB = 90º – α
⇒ ABQ is an isosceles triangle.
∴ cot β = cosec 2 β − 1 = 5.76 = 2.4
AB BQ
⇒ AB = AQ, and =
sin(90 ” − α ) sin 2a
⇒ 2AB sin α = BQ.
AB 1
⇒ = = 1 cosec α.
BQ 2 sin a 2
The correct option is (D)
22. In ∆OBC, we have

In ∆PAD, AD = h cot α = 3.2 h

In ∆PBD, BD = h cot β = 2.4 h

In the right angled ∆ABD, AB2 = AD2 + BD2

⇒ (100)2 = (3.2) + ( 2.4)  h = 16 h2
2 2 2

⇒ h = 25 m

The correct option is (A) 5

tanα = ...(1)
20. Let ABCD be a square of each side of length a. It is given x
30
that ∠BPC = 60º.
Also, tan 2α = ...(2)
Let M be the midpoint of BC. x
Then ∠BPM = ∠CPM = 30º
Dividing (1) & (2), we have
In ∆BMP, right angled at M, 30 2 tan α

tan 2α = tan a ⇒ = 6 tan α
we have 5 1 − tan 2 α
tan(∠BPM) = BM
PM 2 2
⇒ tan2α = ⇒ tan α =
2 2 3 3
⇒ 3a = a + h2
4 4 3
∴ x = 5 cot α = 5.
∴ a2 = 2h2 2
The correct option is (B) The correct option is (B)
21. Since ∠PAQ = ∠PBQ = α(angles in the same segment are 23. Let a be the side of the regular hexagon
equal) PQAB is a cyclic quadrilateral
Now, for the equilateral triangle FOA, we have
Also, since ∠PAB = α (given), ∠PQB = α(angles in the same
OF = OA = AF = a
segment.)
Hence, Area of Circle = A = πa2
Α
⇒ a= ...(1)
π

Now ∠PBQ = α = ∠PQB

28.24 Chapter 28
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL

In right angled triangle AOT, right angled at O, we have a sin β
OA ∴ PR = ...(1)
sin (β − α )
 π  OA π 1 A
tan   = ⇒ OT = tan   = Also, ∠PQR = π + θ
 3  OT  3  3 p
∴ from ∆POR,2
∴ A PR
Height of Tower =
3π PO
=  π 

The correct option is (D) sin a sin  + θ
 2 
20 z h cos θ
24. = ∴ PR = ...(2)
x+y y sin α
z( x + y) a sin β h cos θ
⇒ y=
From (1) and (2), =
20 sin (β − α ) sin α
80 z a sin α sin β

Also, = ∴ cosθ =
x+y x h sin(β − α )
z( x + y) 
−1 a sin α sin β

⇒ x= ⇒ θ = cos  
 h sin(β − α ) 
80  
 z z
∴ x + y = (x + y)  +  ⇒ z = 16
 20 80 
The correct option is (B)
h
26. We have, = tan α
x

= a(say)
3h

tan 2α = = 3a
x
2 tan α
⇒ = 3a.
1 − tan 2 α
2a 1
⇒ 2 = 3a ⇒ 2 = 3 – 3a ⇒ 3a = 1 ⇒ a =
2 2

The correct option is (C) 1- a 3
25. Let OP be the flagstaff of height h and θ be the inclination of ∴ h : x = 1: 3
the hill.

The correct option is (B)

27. AB = 9 cot 45º = 9m.
Diagonal, AD = 9 cot 30º
Then, ∠ORP = α, ∠OQP = β

= 9 3m.

and RQ = a
∴ ∠RPQ =β–α ∴ BD = (9 3 ) 2 - 92
From ∆PQR, we have

= 9 2 m.

PQ PR RQ Thus, area of the field = 9 ´ 9 2 = 81 2 sq.m

= =
sin a sin(180 ” − β) sin(β − α )
 Heights and Distances 28.25
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL

= l(cosβ–cosα)

= 2l cos α + β sin α − β

2 2

Also, b = BA – BC

= l sinα – lsinβ = l(sinα – sinβ)

= 2l cos α + β sin α − β

2 2
a
∴ = tan α + β
b 2
The correct option is (A) The correct option is (A)
28. Let AP be the electric pole of height h. 30. Let ABC be the given triangle with D as the mid point of BC.
let G be the centoid of the triangle ABC.
h

Then, AB = h cot 60º = The poles of height h1 at D and h2 at G subtend the same
3 angle α at A.
h
∴ AB = BC = AC =
3
2 2
1 h   h 
 =   − (100)
∴ BD2 = AB2 – AD2 ⇒  .
2

 2 3   3 

h2 h2 2 Thus, AD = h1 cot α and AG = h2 cot α,

⇒ - = (100)2 ⇒ h = (100)2
3 12 4 2

Since AG = AD
∴ h = 200m. 3

The correct option is (A) 2 h1
∴ h2cot α = h1 cot a ⇒ = 3
29. Let the length of the ladder = l 3 h2 2
The correct option is (B)
31. By mn-theorem at C

∴ AD = EC = l

Now, a = BE – BD

= l cosβ – l cosα
28.26 Chapter 28
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
(d + 2d) cotβ = d cot γ – 2d cot (90° + α)
⇒ 3d cotβ = d cotγ + 2d tanα
⇒ 3 cotβ = cotγ + 2 tanα
∴ 2 tanα = 3 cotβ – cotγ
32. BD = AB = 7 + x
A
⇒ AP = AB cos 30º

∴ AP = 10 × 3 =5
3 cm.
2
Also BP = sin 30º.

45° 60° AB
7 ∴ BP =AB sin 30º = 10 × 1 = 5 cm.
D C x B

Also AB = x tan 60°= x 3
2
∴ x 3 =7+x From right ∠d ∆BPC, we have BP2 + PC2 = BC2

7 ⇒ 52 + PC2 = 62

x= ⇒ PC2 = 62 – 52 = (6 – 5) (6 + 5) = 11
3 -1
∴ PC = 11 cm
AB = 7 3 ( 3 + 1)

2 ∴ longer diagonal

The correct option is (B) AC = AP + PC = 5 3 + 11 cm.
33. Let P be the summit of the mountain and Q be the foot. Let A The correct option is (A)
be the first position and B the second position of observation. 35. Let OP be the tower of height h.
BN and BM are ⊥s from B to PQ and AQ respectively. In right ∠d ∆OAP,
Then AB = 1000 m = 1km, ∠OAP = x
∠MAB = 30º, OA
= cot x
∠MAP = 45º, ∠NBP = 60º h
Now, ∠BAP = ∠MAP – ∠MAB = 45º – 30º = 15º ⇒ OA = h cot x   ...(1)
∠APB = ∠APN – ∠BPN = 45º – 30º = 15º In right ∠d ∆OBP, ∠OBP = y

∴ ∆ABP is isosceles and ∴ AB = BP OB
∴ = cot y ⇒ OB = h cot y ...(2)
h
In right ∠d ∆OAB, AB2 + OA2 = OB2

∴ l2 + h2 cot2 x = h2 cot2 y
⇒ h2 (cot2 y – cot2 x) = l2
l
∴ h= .
cot y - cot 2 x
2

The correct option is (A)

36. Let O be the centre of the square, OP the pole. Shadow of the
But AB = 1 kilometre, ∴ BP = 1 kilometre.
pole OP is OQ. From question, BQ = y and CQ = x. Then, BC

Now, PQ = PN + NQ = PN + BM =x+y
= BP sin 60º + AB sin 30º Let OR ⊥ BC.

3 + 1⋅ 1 = 3 + 1 m. ∴ OR = x + y
= 1⋅ 2
2 2 2
and BQ = y
The correct option is (A)
34. Draw BP ⊥ AC, the longer diagonal. From right ∠d ∆APB, ∴ RQ = x + y – y = x - y .
we have 2 2
AP
Let h be the height of the pole.
= cos 30º
AB
 Heights and Distances 28.27
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL

From right angled triangle POQ, (x + y – x) cotα = x cot β – (y – x) cot(π – θ)

h y cot α − x cot β
tan α =
∴ cot θ

OQ y−x
∴ OQ = h cot α. The correct option is (A)
Now, from right angled ∆ORQ, OQ2 = OR2 + RQ2
39. Let PQ be the tower of height h. Let PA, PB be perpendicu-
2 2
lars from P upon OA and OB respectively.
  
x + y  x− y  Then, ∠PAQ = 45º
⇒ h2 cot2α =   +  

 2   2  ∠PBQ = 30º
2 2 OA = a, OB = b.
⇒ h2 cot2 α = 2(x + y )
4 PA = cot 45º =1 ∴ PA = h
x +y2 2 h
∴ h= tan α.
2 PB
= cot 30º = 3 ∴ PB = 3h
The correct option is (A) h
37. Let d be the distance between the tower and house
Now, OP2 = PA2 + OA2 = PB2 + OB2
⇒ h2 + a2 = 3h2 + b2 ⇒ 2h2 = a2 – b2

a 2 - b2
⇒ h=
2
The correct option is (C)
40. OA = OB = h cot θ

∴ d = 60 cot β
⇒ d = (60 – h) cot α
⇒ 60 cotβ = (60 – h) cot α
60 (cot α − cot β)
⇒ h=
cot α
q
60 sin(β − α ) Now, AB = 2AN = 2 AO sin

⇒ h= (given) 2
x cos q q q
= 2h .sin = h cos q sec
60[sin(β − α )] sin q 2 2
⇒ h= × sin α
sin α sin β cos α
The correct option is (B)
∴ x =cosα sinβ 41. In ∆ACP, we have tan45º = AC
The correct option is (D) AP
38. By (m – n) theorem, we have

⇒ AP = AC = r + h

Also, AM = MP = MC = r
∴ PC = 2r
28.28 Chapter 28
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
Now, from ∆ACP, we have 44. Let C be the cloud and D its reflection, PB is the surface of lake
PC2 = PA2 + AC2 PC = PD = H, QA
⇒ 4r2 = (r + h)2 + (r + h)2 ⇒ r + h = r 2 = (H – h) cot θ
⇒ h= r 2 –1 = (H + h) cot φ
1
r + h = AQ tan 30º ⇒ r + h = ( r + h + d )  cot θ + cot φ 
3 H = h  
 cot θ − cot φ 
⇒ 3( r + h) = (r + h) + d ⇒ d = ( r + h)( 3 − 1)
= (h sin(θ + φ))
⇒ d = ( 3 - 1)r 2 sin(φ – θ)

d
∴ r=
2 ( 3 − 1)
The correct option is (A)
42. Let AP be the lamp post of height h at a point A on a circular
path of radius r and centre C. Let B be the point on this path
such that ∠PBA = α, AB = h cot α.
Since AB subtends an angle 45º at another point of the path, it
subtends an angle of 90º at the centre C so that ∠BCA = 90º
Also, CA = CB = r ⇒ AB =
2r
and then h cot α =
2r The correct option is (A)
⇒ h= 2 r tan a. 45. Let O be the foot of the tower

The correct option is (C)

43. AQ = BQ = CQ = h cot θ OA = 3a, AB = 4a ∴ OB = 5a
∴ Q is circumcentre of ∆ABC ∴ In ∆AOP,
∴ AQ = BQ = CQ = R = abc tan α =

h
∴ h = 3a tan α
4D 3a
h
and in ∆OPB, tanβ =
, ∴ h = 5α tanβ.
5a
Thus, h = 3a tan α or 5a tan β.
The correct option is (A)
46. Let PQ be vertical and at its end Q there is a balloon. P is on
the ground
PA = PB = PC = h cot α
∴ P is circumcentre of ∆ABC and its
circumradius (R) = h cot α
∴ h = abc tan θ b b
4∆ ⇒ 2R = ⇒ 2h cotα =
sin b sin b

The correct option is (A)
 Heights and Distances 28.29
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
2 25
5 13 − h × 39 11´ 39
⇒ = ⇒ h2 =
8 12 25 ´ 2
11´ 39
⇒ h2 = .
25 ´ 2
The correct option is (B)
49 Since ∠PAQ = ∠PBQ = α(angles in the same segment are
b equal) PQAB is a cyclic quadrilateral
∴ h= tan α cosecβ Also, since ∠PAB = α (given), ∠PQB = α(angles in the same
2
segment.)
The correct option is (A)
47 Height of the triangular shadow = DE = h cot 30º = h 3
a
∴ tan α = ;
h 3
2 tan α

tan (2α) =
1 − tan 2 α
a
2

= h 3 = 2 3 ah
a2 3h2 - a 2
1- 2
3h
Now ∠PBQ = α = ∠PQB

⇒ ∠ABQ = ∠AQB = 90º – α
⇒ ABQ is an isosceles triangle.
AB BQ
⇒ AB = AQ and =
sin(90 ” − α ) sin 2a
⇒ 2AB sin α = BQ.
AB 1
⇒ = = 1 cosec α.
BQ 2 sin a 2
The correct option is (D)
The correct option is (B) 50. Let a be the side of the regular hexagon
48. Let PQ be the tower of height h at the middle point P of the Now, for the equilateral triangle FOA, we have
side OB of the triangle OAB. OF = OA = AF = a
Hence, area of circle = A = πa2

A
⇒ a= ...(1)
p

OA = 2, OB = 6, AB = 5 and ∠AOB = ∠PAQ = α, then

AP = h cot α, OP = 3
2 2 + 6 2 − 52 5
From triangle OAB, cosα = =
2× 2×6 8
and from ∆ OAP
In right angled triangle AOT, right angled at O, we have
2 2
2 + 3 − h cot α 2 2
 π  OA OA
cos α = 1 A

2× 2×3 tan   = ⇒ OT = π =
 3  OT tan   3 p
 3 
28.30 Chapter 28
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
A h
∴ Height of tower =
Then, AB = h cot 60º = .
3p 3

The correct option is (D) h
∴ AB = BC = AC = .
51 Let OP be the flagstaff of height h and θ be the inclination of 3
the hill. ∴ BD2 = AB2 – AD2
Then, ∠ORP = α, ∠OQP = β 2 2
 1 h   h 
and RQ = a ⇒  .  =   − (100) 2
∴ ∠RPQ = β – α.
 2 3   3 
h2 h2 2
⇒ - = (100)2 ⇒ h = (100)2
3 12 4
∴ h = 200 m.

The correct option is (A)

53. By mn-theorem at C

From ∆PQR, we have

PQ PR RQ
= =
sin a sin(180° − β) sin(β − α )
a sin β
∴ PR = ...(1)
sin (β − α )
π (d + 2d) cotβ = d cot γ – 2d cot (90° + α)

Also, ∠PQR =
+θ
2 ⇒ 3d cotβ = d cotγ + 2d tanα
∴ from ∆POR, ⇒ 3 cotβ = cotγ + 2 tanα
PR ∴ 2 tanα = 3 cotβ – cotγ.
PO h cos θ
= π  ⇒ PR = ...(2)
The correct option is (B)
sin a sin  + θ sin α
 2  54. Let x and y be the heights of the flagstaffs at P and Q
a sin β h cos θ respectively

From (1) and (2), = x 3
sin (β − α ) sin α
Then, AP = x cos 60º = , AQ = y cot 30º = y
3
a sin α sin β y
∴ cosθ = BP = x cot 45º = x, BQ = y cot 60º =
h sin(β − α ) 3
x
 a sin α sin β  ⇒ AB = BP – AP = x – [ ∴ AB = 30 m]
⇒ θ = cos 
−1
 3
 h sin(β − α )  .
  ⇒ 30 3 = ( 3 –1) x ⇒ x = 15 (3 + 3 )m

The correct option is (B)
52. Let AP be the electric pole of height h.
 Heights and Distances 28.31
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
 ∠ RAS = 90º – ∠ raq = ∠ paq = 30º
1 
Similarly, 30 = y  3 −
 ⇒ y = 15 3 Also, it is given
 3 
AR = 20 m, AS = 10 m.
y Then pq and rs are chords of the same circle making an angle

so that PQ = BP + BQ = x + = 15 (3 + 3 ) + 15
3 of 30º at points on the circumference of the circle and hence
= (60 + 15 3 ) m. are equal in length.
The correct option is (D) Now, from ∆ sar,
55. Let H be the mid point of BC since RS2 = 202 + 102 – 2 × 20 × 10cos30º
∠ tbh = 90º, TH2 = BT2 + BH2 = 52 + 52 = 50 ⇒ PQ2 = 500 – 200 3 ⇒ PQ = 500 - 200 3
Also, since ∠thg = 90º, TG2 = TH2 + GH2 = 50 + 25 = 75 The correct option is (B)
57 Let OP be the peak of height h.
AB be the horizontal base of height 2a with C as its middle
point then AC = CB = a. Also ∠ PAO = ∠ pbo = 15º and
∠ pco = 45º, then oa = ob = h cot 15º, oc = h cot 45º = h

Let θ be the required angle of elevation of G at T.

GH 5 1
Then, sin θ =
= =
TG 5 3 3
1
⇒ sin–1
3

The correct option is (A)
56. Since PQ subtends the same angle of 30º at each of the Since ∆oab is isosceles, oc is perpendicular on AB and from

points A, R and S, the points P, Q, A, R and S lie on a circle right angled triangle ocb, ob2 = oc2 + bc2
and AR ⊥ AQ ⇒ h2 cot2 15º = h2 + a2
⇒ h2 [cot 15º – 1] = a2
a2
2 a 2 ( 3 -1) 2
⇒ h2 =  3 + 1 =
  −1 2( 2 3 )
 3 −1 

a 3 −1 3 / 4
⇒ h = ( 3 −1) = ×3 a
2 × 31/ 2 6

The correct option is (C)

More than One Option Correct Type

58. From the figure, in triangle PBQ,
2h x
=
sin(135°−θ) sin θ

2hsin θ 2hsin θ
⇒x= =
cos( 45°− θ) cos θ + sin θ
2h tan θ 2h

= =
1 + tan θ 1 + cot θ
∴ (a), (b), (c) hold.
28.32 Chapter 28
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
59. Let PQ be the tower of height h and A, B,C be the positions
From right angled triangle BMQ,
of the person from initial to final (fig). Then, 2
a 2
∠ paq =∠ pbq = 30º and ∠ pcq = 60º QM2 = BQ2– BM2 = 3h2 –   = 3h2– a
 2  4
⇒ AQ = BQ = h cot 30º = h 3

and from right angled triangle CLQ,
h2 a 2
QL2 = QC2 – CL2 = -
3 4

Since, QM = QL + LM
h2 a 2 25a 2 10 a  h
2
2 a2
⇒ 3h2 – a = − + +  −
4 3 4 9  3  3 4

25a 2 10 a  h
2
8h2 a2
⇒ – = 
 −
3 9  3  3 4
a 2 h2 a4 a 2 h2
⇒ 64h4 – 400 + 625 = 100 – 25a4
h 3 9 3

and CQ = h cot 60º =
3 ⇒ 576h4 – 1500 a2h2 + 850a4 = 0

Let QM be perpendicular to AB and CL be perpendicular to ⇒ 288h4 – 750a2h2 + 425a4 = 0
QM ⇒ (48h2 – 85a2) (6h2 – 5a2) = 0
5a

Now, AB = a and BC = and ∠ ABC = 90º
3  85   5 
⇒ h=   a or   a
⇒ ML = BC =
5a
and CL = BM = a
 48   6 
3 2 ∴ (a), (b) holds.

Match the Column Type

h
60 I Given that AC = CB = h (say) ∴ circumradius = metres
∠CPA = α, ∠BPC = β 2
3
 h 
∴ A = π  
and AP = 2 .  3 
AB 1 2
3  h 
⇒ AP = 2AB = 4h ∴ Area of the hexagon = 6  
4  3 
h
In ∆APC, tan α =
4h = 3 3 A square metres.
⇒ tan α = 1 2 p
4 2h h
In ∆ABP, tan (α + β) = = 1 III From ∆CDA, x = h cot 30º =
4h 2 3
1 From ∆CDB, y = h cot 30º = 3h
+ tan β
4 From ∆ABC, by Pythagorous theorem,
tan α + tan β
⇒ = 1 ⇒ 1− 1 tan β = 1
1− tan α ⋅ tan β 2 4 2
1 + 4 tan β 1
⇒ = ⇒ 2 + 8 tan β = 4 – tan β
4 − tan β 2
2
⇒ 9 tan β = 2 ⇒ β = tan β = .
9
II If the height of the pole is h metres, then
h
= tan 60º
circumradius
 Heights and Distances 28.33
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
x2 + 32 = y2
⇒ (100)2 = (3.2) 2 + ( 2.4) 2  h2 = 16 h2
 h   
⇒   + 32 = ( 3h) 2 ⇒ h = 3 6 km. ⇒ h = 25 m
 3  4 II 
Let ABCD be a square of each side of length a. It is
IV 
Let ABC be the given triangle with D as the mid point of given that ∠BPC = 60º.
BC. let G be the centoid of the triangle ABC. Let M be the midpoint of BC.
Then ∠BPM = ∠CPM = 30º
In ∆BMP, right angled at M, we have

tan(∠BPM) = BM
PM
2 2
⇒ 3a = a + h2
4 4
∴ a2 = 2h2
III In ∆OBC, we have
5
tanα = ...(1)
x

The poles of height h1 at D and h2 at G subtend the same
angle α at A.
Thus, AD = h1 cot α and AG = h2 cot α,

2

Since AG = AD
3
2 h1
∴ h2cot α = h1 cot a ⇒ = 3
3 h2 2 30
Also, tan 2α= ...(2)
61 I DP is a clock tower standing at the middle point D of BC. x
∠PAD = α = cot–13.2 ⇒ cot α = 3.2 Dividing (1) & (2), we have
and ∠PBD = β = cosec–12.6 ⇒ cosec β = 2.6 30 2 tan α
tan 2α = tan a ⇒ = 6 tan α
∴ cot β = 2
cosec β − 1 = 5 1 − tan 2 α
5.76 = 2.4
2 2
⇒ tan2α = ⇒ tan α =
3 3
3
∴ x = 5 cot α = 5.
2
20 z
IV =
x+y y
z( x + y)
⇒ y=
20
80 z
Also, =
x+y x
z( x + y)
⇒ 1x =
In ∆PAD, AD = h cot α = 3.2 h 80
In ∆PBD, BD = h cot β = 2.4 h  z z
∴ x + y = (x + y)  +  ⇒ z= 16
In the right angled ∆ABD, AB2 = AD2 + BD2   20 80 
28.34 Chapter 28
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
Assertion-Reason Type
62. Applying m – n theorem of trigonometry, we get

(c + c) cot (θ – 30º) = c cot 15º – c cot 30º 64. By (m – n) theorem, we have

1 sin (30°−15°)

or cot (θ – 30º) =
2 sin 15° sin 30°
1 1
or cot (θ – 30º)=
= 1 = cot 45º 2 sin 30°
⇒ θ – 30º = 45º ∴ θ = 75º.
63. From the figure (if PQ is the pole of height h),
BQ = h cot α = CQ = AQ
π 
∴ Q is the circumcentre of ∆ABC. (d + 2d)cotβ = d cot γ – 2d cot  + α 
 2 
a

Hence, = 2R = 2h cot α ⇒ 3 cotβ = cotγ + 2tanα
sin A
⇒ a sin α = 2h cos α sin A. ∴ 2 tan α = 3 cot β – cot γ

Previous Year’s Questions

h
65. From fig. tan30° =
40 + b

⇒ 3h = 40 + b …..(1)

Also, tan60° = h/b ⇒ h = 3b ….(2)

67. According to fig.

BD = AB = 7 + x
⇒ b = 20 m
Also, AB = x tan 60° = x 3

66. From the figure, ∆OAB is equilateral ∴x 3 =7+x
∴ OA = OB = AB = a
7
h x=

Now, tan30° =
3 −1
a
7 3
a AB = ( 3 + 1)
∴h= 2
3
 Heights and Distances 28.35
AIM : FREE EDUCATION TO ALL APUL
A
AB 3x − x 3
= =
∴ BC
x 1 .
x−
3
70.
45° 60°
D 7 C x B

20 1
68. tan 30� = =
20 + x 3

20 + x = 20 3

x = 20 ( 3 −1 ) h

∆QPA : = tan30°⇒ 3h = x + y  ....(i)
x+y
⇒ Speed is
20 ( 3 −1) m/sec. h

∆QPB : = tan60°⇒ h = 3  ....(ii)
69. AB = 3 x − x y
x
From (i) and (ii), we have, 3y = x + y ⇒ y =

x 2
BC = x −
since the speed is uniform,

3

Distance x in 10 mins
x
⇒ Distance
in 5 mins
2