Trigonometric Functions: Definition & Examples

In mathematics, trigonometric functions are functions of angles. This lesson will describe the 6 main trigonometric functions, use them to solve problems, and give some examples. The quiz at the end of the lesson will allow you to practice what you’ve learned.
Main Trigonometric Functions
There are six main trigonometric functions:
Sine (sin)
Cosine (cos)
Tangent (tan)
Secant (sec)
Cosecant (csc)
Cotangent (cot)
These functions are used to relate the angles of a triangle with the sides of that triangle. Trigonometric functions are important when studying triangles and modeling periodic phenomena such as waves, sound, and light.
To define these functions for the angle theta, begin with a right triangle. Each function relates the angle to two sides of a right triangle. First, let’s define the sides of the triangle.
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The hypotenuse is the side opposite the right angle. The hypotenuse is always the longest side of a right triangle.
The opposite side is the side opposite to the angle we are interested in, theta.
The adjacent side is the side having both the angles of interest (angle theta and the right angle).
The relationship between the trigonometric functions and the sides of the triangle are as follows:
sine(theta) = opposite / hypotenuse
cosecant(theta) = hypotenuse / opposite
cosine(theta) = adjacent / hypotenuse
secant(theta) = hypotenuse / adjacent
tangent(theta) = opposite / adjacent
cotangent(theta) = adjacent / opposite
Real-World Examples
These trigonometric functions have practical applications in surveying, building, engineering, and even medicine. Here’s one practical way to use these functions to solve a problem:
The angle of elevation of an airplane is 23 degrees, and its altitude is 2500 meters. How far away is it?
We are trying to solve this right triangle for the hypotenuse x. Since the side length we know is opposite the angle we know, we can use the sine function.
Sin(23) = 2500m / x
x = 6398.3 meters
How to Solve Problems
You can use these ratios to solve for any side or angle of a right triangle. The information you are given will help you determine which function to use.
Example:
Solve for b if you know that c is 2.5 km and B is 15.7 degrees.
 
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