1. Introduction

In the previous session, we learnt how to find the solution using trigonometric ratios. In this session, let us learn how to find the heights and distances of objects by applying trigonometric ratios. The process of finding heights and distances is the best example of applying trigonometry in real-life situations. Now, let us learn some basic definitions.

 

 

 

The line of sight is defined as the straight line drawn from the eye of an observer to the object viewed by the observer.

 

 

 

Theodolite is an instrument used to measure the angle between an object and the eye of the observer. It consists of two wheels placed at right angles to each other and a telescope. The angle between the object and the observer's eye is determined by placing the telescope towards the object, thus reading the angle using the telescope scale.

 

 

 

The angle of elevation is defined as the angle formed by the line of sight and the horizontal line when the point being viewed is above the horizontal level.

 

That is the case when we raise our heads to look at the object.

 

 

 

The angle of depression is defined as the angle formed by the line of sight with the horizontal line when the point being viewed is below the horizontal level.

 

That is the case when we lower our heads to look at the object.

 

 

 

The angle of elevation and the angle of depression is measured using a device called a clinometer.