Finding the Trigonometric Functions

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 58 views

Introduction

In trigonometry, the standard position of an angle is a crucial concept that helps us understand the relationships between the angle, its terminal ray, and the trigonometric functions. In this article, we will explore how to find the values of the trigonometric functions when the terminal ray of an angle in standard position passes through a given point.

What is Standard Position?

An angle in standard position is an angle whose vertex is at the origin of a coordinate plane and whose initial side lies along the positive x-axis. The terminal side of the angle is the side that extends from the vertex to the point where the angle intersects the coordinate plane.

Given Information

We are given that the terminal ray of angle $\theta$ passes through the point $(8, -15)$ . This means that the angle $\theta$ is in standard position, and the terminal ray intersects the coordinate plane at the point $(8, -15)$ .

Finding the Trigonometric Functions

To find the values of the trigonometric functions, we need to use the definitions of sine and cosine in terms of the coordinates of a point on the terminal ray.

Sine Function

The sine function is defined as the ratio of the y-coordinate of a point on the terminal ray to the distance from the origin to that point. In this case, the y-coordinate of the point $(8, -15)$ is $-15$ , and the distance from the origin to the point is $\sqrt{8^2 + (-15)^2} = \sqrt{64 + 225} = \sqrt{289} = 17$ .

\sin (\theta) = \frac{-15}{17}

Cosine Function

The cosine function is defined as the ratio of the x-coordinate of a point on the terminal ray to the distance from the origin to that point. In this case, the x-coordinate of the point $(8, -15)$ is $8$ , and the distance from the origin to the point is $\sqrt{8^2 + (-15)^2} = \sqrt{64 + 225} = \sqrt{289} = 17$ .

\cos (\theta) = \frac{8}{17}

Discussion

In this article, we have seen how to find the values of the trigonometric functions when the terminal ray of an angle in standard position passes through a given point. We have used the definitions of sine and cosine in terms of the coordinates of a point on the terminal ray to find the values of the trigonometric functions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the values of the trigonometric functions can be found using the definitions of sine and cosine in terms of the coordinates of a point on the terminal ray. By using these definitions, we can find the values of the trigonometric functions for any angle in standard position.

Additional Information

The values of the trigonometric functions can be used to solve problems in trigonometry, such as finding the lengths of sides of triangles and the measures of angles.
The values of the trigonometric functions can also be used to model real-world phenomena, such as the motion of objects and the behavior of waves.

References

[1] "Trigonometry" by Michael Corral
[2] "Trigonometry" by I. M. Gelfand

Glossary

Standard position: An angle whose vertex is at the origin of a coordinate plane and whose initial side lies along the positive x-axis.
Terminal ray: The side of an angle that extends from the vertex to the point where the angle intersects the coordinate plane.
Sine function: The ratio of the y-coordinate of a point on the terminal ray to the distance from the origin to that point.
Cosine function: The ratio of the x-coordinate of a point on the terminal ray to the distance from the origin to that point.
Trigonometric Functions in Standard Position: Q&A =====================================================

Introduction

In our previous article, we explored how to find the values of the trigonometric functions when the terminal ray of an angle in standard position passes through a given point. In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions about trigonometric functions in standard position.

Q: What is the standard position of an angle?

A: The standard position of an angle is an angle whose vertex is at the origin of a coordinate plane and whose initial side lies along the positive x-axis.

Q: How do I find the values of the trigonometric functions in standard position?

A: To find the values of the trigonometric functions in standard position, you need to use the definitions of sine and cosine in terms of the coordinates of a point on the terminal ray. The sine function is defined as the ratio of the y-coordinate of a point on the terminal ray to the distance from the origin to that point, while the cosine function is defined as the ratio of the x-coordinate of a point on the terminal ray to the distance from the origin to that point.

Q: What is the difference between the sine and cosine functions?

A: The sine function is the ratio of the y-coordinate of a point on the terminal ray to the distance from the origin to that point, while the cosine function is the ratio of the x-coordinate of a point on the terminal ray to the distance from the origin to that point.

Q: How do I use the values of the trigonometric functions to solve problems in trigonometry?

A: The values of the trigonometric functions can be used to solve problems in trigonometry, such as finding the lengths of sides of triangles and the measures of angles. For example, if you know the values of the sine and cosine functions for a given angle, you can use the Pythagorean identity to find the value of the tangent function.

Q: Can I use the values of the trigonometric functions to model real-world phenomena?

A: Yes, the values of the trigonometric functions can be used to model real-world phenomena, such as the motion of objects and the behavior of waves. For example, the sine and cosine functions can be used to model the motion of a pendulum or the behavior of a wave on a string.

Q: What are some common applications of trigonometric functions in standard position?

A: Some common applications of trigonometric functions in standard position include:

Finding the lengths of sides of triangles and the measures of angles
Modeling the motion of objects and the behavior of waves
Solving problems in physics and engineering
Analyzing data in fields such as economics and finance

Q: How do I find the values of the trigonometric functions for a given angle in standard position?

A: To find the values of the trigonometric functions for a given angle in standard position, you need to use the definitions of sine and cosine in terms of the coordinates of a point on the terminal ray. You can use a calculator or a trigonometric table to find the values of the trigonometric functions for a given angle.

Q: What are some common mistakes to avoid when working with trigonometric functions in standard position?

A: Some common mistakes to avoid when working with trigonometric functions in standard position include:

Confusing the sine and cosine functions
Failing to use the correct definitions of the trigonometric functions
Not checking the units of the trigonometric functions
Not using the correct values of the trigonometric functions for a given angle

Conclusion

In conclusion, trigonometric functions in standard position are an important concept in trigonometry. By understanding the definitions of the sine and cosine functions and how to use them to solve problems, you can apply trigonometric functions to a wide range of real-world phenomena. Remember to avoid common mistakes and to use the correct values of the trigonometric functions for a given angle.

**Additional Information