The Essence of Trigonometry
THE TRIANGLE
Trigonometry is the study of triangles, most specifically, that of right triangles. In this right triangle, the following are true:
(a^2) + (b^2 = (c^2) [Pythagorean Theorem]
sin A = a/c [opposite side / hypotenuse]
cos A = b/c [adjacent side / hypotenuse]
tan A = a/b [opposite / adjacent]
cot A = b/a = 1/(tan A)
sec A = c/b = 1/(cos A)
csc A = c/a = 1/(sin A)
To remember the 3 main trigonometric functions - sine, cosine, and tangent - just remember "SOHCAHTOA," a pneumonic device taught to me in 9th grade. See if you can figure out why remembering this would help. These are the main things you must remember throughout your study of trigonometry.
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