Question:medium

If \(\cos P = 1/7\) and \(\cos Q = 13/14\), where P and Q both are acute angles. Then the value of \(P - Q\) is

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\(\cos(P - Q) = 1/2 \rightarrow P - Q = 60°\) for acute angles.
Updated On: Jun 16, 2026
  • 30°
  • 60°
  • 45°
  • 75°
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

To find the value of \(P - Q\), given that both \(P\) and \(Q\) are acute angles and \(\cos P = \frac{1}{7}\) and \(\cos Q = \frac{13}{14}\), we proceed as follows:

  1. Since \(P\) and \(Q\) are acute angles, their cosine values must be positive and less than or equal to 1. The angles must also lie between 0° and 90°.
  2. Determine \(P: \cos^{-1}(\frac{1}{7})\).
    • Using a calculator or trigonometric table, find the angle whose cosine is \(\frac{1}{7}\).
  3. Determine \(Q: \cos^{-1}(\frac{13}{14})\).
    • Similar to step 2, find the angle whose cosine is \(\frac{13}{14}\).
  4. Calculate \(P - Q\).
    • Since this involves inverse trigonometric functions, precise values can be computed using a calculator.
    • By calculation or lookup, find \(\cos^{-1}(\frac{1}{7}) \approx 81.8°\) and \(\cos^{-1}(\frac{13}{14}) \approx 21.8°\).
    • Then, compute \(P - Q = 81.8° - 21.8° = 60°\).
  5. Verify the correct answer: The computation yields \(P - Q = 60°\), which matches the given correct answer option.

Hence, the value of \(P - Q\) is \(60^\circ\).

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