Understanding the Sine Function in Different Quadrants

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 2 views

Introduction

Trigonometry is a branch of mathematics that deals with the relationships between the sides and angles of triangles. It is a fundamental subject that has numerous applications in various fields, including physics, engineering, and navigation. One of the most important trigonometric functions is the sine function, denoted by $\sin(\theta)$ . In this article, we will explore the concept of the sine function and determine the correct value of $\sin(\theta)$ .

What is the Sine Function?

The sine function is a trigonometric function that relates the ratio of the length of the side opposite an angle to the length of the hypotenuse in a right-angled triangle. It is defined as the ratio of the length of the side opposite the angle to the length of the hypotenuse. Mathematically, it can be represented as:

\sin(\theta) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{hypotenuse}}

Understanding the Sine Function in Different Quadrants

The sine function has different values in different quadrants of the unit circle. The unit circle is a circle with a radius of 1, centered at the origin of the coordinate plane. The sine function is positive in the first and second quadrants, and negative in the third and fourth quadrants.

Determining the Value of $\sin(\theta)$

To determine the value of $\sin(\theta)$ , we need to consider the angle $\theta$ . If $\theta$ is an acute angle, then the sine function is positive. If $\theta$ is an obtuse angle, then the sine function is negative.

Case 1: $\theta$ is an Acute Angle

If $\theta$ is an acute angle, then the sine function is positive. In this case, the value of $\sin(\theta)$ is given by:

\sin(\theta) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{hypotenuse}}

For example, if $\theta = 30^\circ$ , then the value of $\sin(\theta)$ is:

\sin(30^\circ) = \frac{1}{2}

Case 2: $\theta$ is an Obtuse Angle

If $\theta$ is an obtuse angle, then the sine function is negative. In this case, the value of $\sin(\theta)$ is given by:

\sin(\theta) = -\frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{hypotenuse}}

For example, if $\theta = 150^\circ$ , then the value of $\sin(\theta)$ is:

\sin(150^\circ) = -\frac{1}{2}

Case 3: $\theta$ is a Right Angle

If $\theta$ is a right angle, then the sine function is equal to 1. In this case, the value of $\sin(\theta)$ is:

\sin(90^\circ) = 1

Case 4: $\theta$ is a Straight Angle

If $\theta$ is a straight angle, then the sine function is equal to 0. In this case, the value of $\sin(\theta)$ is:

\sin(180^\circ) = 0

Conclusion

In conclusion, the value of $\sin(\theta)$ depends on the angle $\theta$ . If $\theta$ is an acute angle, then the sine function is positive. If $\theta$ is an obtuse angle, then the sine function is negative. If $\theta$ is a right angle, then the sine function is equal to 1. If $\theta$ is a straight angle, then the sine function is equal to 0.

Answer

Based on the above discussion, the correct value of $\sin(\theta)$ is:

\sin(\theta) = -\frac{\sqrt{2}}{2}

Therefore, the correct answer is:

B. $-\frac{\sqrt{2}}{2}$

Final Answer

$The final answer is $\boxed{-\frac{\sqrt{2}}{2}}$.<br/> **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Sine Function**$

Q: What is the sine function?

A: The sine function is a trigonometric function that relates the ratio of the length of the side opposite an angle to the length of the hypotenuse in a right-angled triangle.

Q: What is the formula for the sine function?

A: The formula for the sine function is:

\sin(\theta) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{hypotenuse}}

Q: What is the value of $\sin(\theta)$ for an acute angle?

A: For an acute angle, the value of $\sin(\theta)$ is positive. The exact value depends on the angle, but it can be calculated using the formula:

\sin(\theta) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{hypotenuse}}

Q: What is the value of $\sin(\theta)$ for an obtuse angle?

A: For an obtuse angle, the value of $\sin(\theta)$ is negative. The exact value depends on the angle, but it can be calculated using the formula:

\sin(\theta) = -\frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{hypotenuse}}

Q: What is the value of $\sin(\theta)$ for a right angle?

A: For a right angle, the value of $\sin(\theta)$ is equal to 1.

Q: What is the value of $\sin(\theta)$ for a straight angle?

A: For a straight angle, the value of $\sin(\theta)$ is equal to 0.

Q: How do I calculate the value of $\sin(\theta)$ ?

A: To calculate the value of $\sin(\theta)$ , you can use a calculator or a trigonometric table. Alternatively, you can use the formula:

\sin(\theta) = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{hypotenuse}}

Q: What are some common values of $\sin(\theta)$ ?

A: Some common values of $\sin(\theta)$ include:

$\sin(0^\circ) = 0$
$\sin(30^\circ) = \frac{1}{2}$
$\sin(45^\circ) = \frac{\sqrt{2}}{2}$
$\sin(60^\circ) = \frac{\sqrt{3}}{2}$
$\sin(90^\circ) = 1$

Q: Can I use the sine function to solve real-world problems?

A: Yes, the sine function can be used to solve a wide range of real-world problems, including:

Calculating the height of a building or a mountain
Determining the distance between two points on a map
Calculating the angle of elevation or depression of a object
Solving problems involving waves and vibrations

Q: What are some common applications of the sine function?

A: Some common applications of the sine function include:

Navigation and surveying
Physics and engineering
Computer graphics and game development
Medical imaging and diagnostics

Conclusion

In conclusion, the sine function is a fundamental concept in trigonometry that has numerous applications in various fields. By understanding the sine function and its properties, you can solve a wide range of problems and make informed decisions in your personal and professional life.