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High SchoolGeometry

Trigonometry

Sin, Cos, Tan and the Pythagorean Theorem

Use trigonometric ratios to find missing sides and angles in right-angled triangles.

SOH: Sin = Opposite/HypotenuseCAH: Cos = Adjacent/HypotenuseTOA: Tan = Opposite/Adjacent

📖 Understanding Trigonometry

Trigonometry studies relationships between angles and sides in triangles. In a right-angled triangle, we label sides relative to the angle θ: Opposite (across from θ), Adjacent (next to θ), Hypotenuse (longest side, opposite right angle).

The three main ratios: Sin θ = Opposite/Hypotenuse, Cos θ = Adjacent/Hypotenuse, Tan θ = Opposite/Adjacent. Remember: SOH CAH TOA.

Pythagoras' Theorem: In a right triangle, a² + b² = c² where c is the hypotenuse. Use this to find a missing side when you know two sides.

To find an angle, use inverse functions: θ = sin⁻¹(O/H), θ = cos⁻¹(A/H), θ = tan⁻¹(O/A).

🔑 Key Points to Remember

  • SOH: Sin = Opposite/Hypotenuse
  • CAH: Cos = Adjacent/Hypotenuse
  • TOA: Tan = Opposite/Adjacent
  • Pythagoras: a² + b² = c²
  • Use inverse trig to find angles
#trigonometry#sin#cos#tan#pythagoras#high school

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