Oblique Triangle Side Calculation

Home > Mathematics > Geometry > Trigonometry

Oblique Triangle Side Calculation

Oblique Triangle Side Calculation
\[a = \frac{b\sin(A)}{\sin(B)}\]

Variables

a = unknown triangle side (m)
b = known triangle side (m)
A = angle opposite side a (rad or °)
B = angle opposite side b (rad or °)

Description

What is this formula?


This trigonometric formula calculates an unknown side of an oblique triangle using the Law of Sines.


An oblique triangle is any triangle that does not contain a 90° angle. The Law of Sines relates side lengths to the sines of their opposite angles.


This method allows the determination of unknown sides when one side and two angles are known.


When to use it


Use this formula when:


- The triangle is not a right triangle

- One side length is known

- Two angles are known

- An unknown side must be calculated

- Solving geometry, surveying, or navigation problems


This formula is especially useful for ASA and AAS triangle configurations.


Example


If:


b = 12 m

A = 40°

B = 65°


Then:


a = (12*sin(40°))/sin(65°)


a ≈ 8.51 m


Applications


- Trigonometry and geometry

- Civil engineering

- Surveying and mapping

- Navigation calculations

- Physics and mechanics

- Educational mathematics


Download the fCalc app to calculate this formula and thousands more:


Language

English | Spanish |