Why can't I get the same cosine answer? ?

Question

Here is what the answer key says

(3.9 m/s) cos 50.0 degres =2.5 m/s

I assume on my calculater I punch in 3.9 * cos 50 but I get 3.763367511 ???

How did they get that answer?

Thanks!!!!

Answer 1

check your calculator, I get 2.506872

I think you are calculating cos 50 radians.

.

Answer 2

Your calculator is in radian mode not degrees.

Answer 3

Hi, Your calculator is in Radians mode and it needs to be in degrees mode. Your calculator is calculating the angle as being 50 rad and not 50 deg.

Look for a setup button on your calculator then try to change the angle to degrees.

Answer 4

Your calculator is is set to Radians instead of degrees.

50 degrees in radians is 50/360 * 2pi