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OpenStax, Algebra and Trigonometry 2e §10.2 Non-right Triangles: Law of Cosines · Example 2 · Trigonometry · Laws of sines & cosines

Using the Law of Cosines to Solve a Communication Problem

On many cell phones with GPS, an approximate location can be given before the GPS signal is received. This is accomplished through a process called triangulation, which works by using the distances from two known points. Suppose there are two cell phone towers within range of a cell phone. The two towers are located 6000 feet apart along a straight highway, running east to west, and the cell phone is north of the highway. Based on the signal delay, it can be determined that the signal is 5,050 feet from the first tower and 2,420 feet from the second tower. Determine the position of the cell phone north and east of the first tower, and determine how far it is from the highway.

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OpenStax, Algebra and Trigonometry 2e · §10.2 Non-right Triangles: Law of Cosines · Example 2

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