Trigonometry Basics 6De80A
1. Let's start with the basics of trigonometry. Trigonometry studies the relationships between the angles and sides of triangles, especially right triangles.
2. The primary functions are sine ($\sin$), cosine ($\cos$), and tangent ($\tan$). For an angle $\theta$ in a right triangle:
$$\sin(\theta) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{hypotenuse}}, \quad \cos(\theta) = \frac{\text{adjacent}}{\text{hypotenuse}}, \quad \tan(\theta) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{adjacent}}$$
3. Important rules include the Pythagorean identity:
$$\sin^2(\theta) + \cos^2(\theta) = 1$$
4. Also, the tangent can be expressed as:
$$\tan(\theta) = \frac{\sin(\theta)}{\cos(\theta)}$$
5. Let's solve an example: Find $\sin(30^\circ)$, $\cos(30^\circ)$, and $\tan(30^\circ)$.
6. Using known values:
$$\sin(30^\circ) = \frac{1}{2}, \quad \cos(30^\circ) = \frac{\sqrt{3}}{2}$$
7. Then,
$$\tan(30^\circ) = \frac{\sin(30^\circ)}{\cos(30^\circ)} = \frac{\frac{1}{2}}{\frac{\sqrt{3}}{2}} = \frac{1}{\sqrt{3}} = \frac{\sqrt{3}}{3}$$
8. These values are fundamental and often used in solving trigonometric problems.
9. Remember, angles can be in degrees or radians, and conversion is:
$$\text{radians} = \frac{\pi}{180} \times \text{degrees}$$
10. Practice these basics to build a strong foundation in trigonometry.