Prove the Height of the Pyramid of Khafre

• Find the height of a square based pyramid knowing the base dimensions and angle of incline.

aa

• Start by splitting the base in half with a right angled line.

a/2 a/2

• Second, split one of the side up the middle.

a/2 a/2

ө

• Thirdly, draw a line from the tip of the pyramid to the center of the base. This is the height.

h

a/2 a/2

ө

• There now exists a right angled triangle with a known base and angle of incline.

ө

h

a/2

• Therefore, the height of the Pyramid of Khafre is 143.8m

ө

h

a/2

Calculate h when:a = 215.5mө = 53.16°

tan ө = opposite / adjacent

tan 53.16° = h / (215.5/2)

h = tan(53.16°) x 215.5 / 2 = 143.8

Prove the Height of the Pyramid of Khafre

Calculate the height of the Pyramid of Khufu

• Measure the base dimensions of Pyramid of Khufu using in Google Earth.

• The angle of incline is 53°50’40” (53.84°)

• Verify your answer by using the measure tool in Google Earth.