This problem is solely on right triangles, wherein the Pythagorean theorem may be applied. We must first find the angle of elevation of the flagpole using Tim's height and the difference between the shadow of the flagpole and Tim's distance from the flagpole. Therefore tan a = 1.65/(16.6-12.5) where a=21.68 degrees. We use this angle to determine the height of the flagpole. tan 21.68 = x/ 16.6 where x=height of flagpole=6.6 meters.
