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Find the exact value of \( \tan 30^{\circ} \) \( \tan 30^{\circ}=\square \) (Simplify your answer, including any radicals. Use integers or fractions for any numbers in the expression.)

Ask by Gross Lawson. in the United States
Feb 03,2025

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Answer

\[ \tan 30^{\circ} = \frac{\sqrt{3}}{3} \]

Solution

The exact value of \( \tan 30^{\circ} \) can be found using the properties of a 30-60-90 right triangle. In such a triangle, the sides are in the ratio \( 1 : \sqrt{3} : 2 \), where: - The side opposite the 30° angle is \( 1 \). - The side opposite the 60° angle is \( \sqrt{3} \). - The hypotenuse is \( 2 \). The tangent of an angle in a right triangle is the ratio of the length of the opposite side to the length of the adjacent side. Therefore, \[ \tan 30^{\circ} = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{adjacent}} = \frac{1}{\sqrt{3}} \] To rationalize the denominator, multiply the numerator and the denominator by \( \sqrt{3} \): \[ \tan 30^{\circ} = \frac{1}{\sqrt{3}} \times \frac{\sqrt{3}}{\sqrt{3}} = \frac{\sqrt{3}}{3} \] \[ \tan 30^{\circ} = \frac{\sqrt{3}}{3} \] **Answer:** \[ \tan 30^{\circ} = \frac{\sqrt{3}}{3} \]

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The exact value of \( \tan 30^{\circ} \) is given by the formula: \[ \tan 30^{\circ} = \frac{1}{\sqrt{3}} \] You can also express this in a more simplified fractional form: \[ \tan 30^{\circ} = \frac{\sqrt{3}}{3} \] So, \[ \tan 30^{\circ} = \frac{\sqrt{3}}{3} = \square \] Now, let’s keep the fun going! This value comes from the geometry of a 30-60-90 triangle. In such a triangle, the side opposite the 30-degree angle is half the hypotenuse, while the side opposite the 60-degree angle is \( \sqrt{3}/2 \) of the hypotenuse. Thus, \( \tan 30^{\circ} \) is equal to the opposite over the adjacent, leading to our exact value. If you ever want to impress friends at a party, let them know you can derive the values of all trigonometric functions just by drawing right triangles! It’s a classic way of showcasing why trigonometry can be not just useful but also fun. Plus, a little sketch can go a long way in making complex concepts feel simple and relatable.

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