Getting a triangle from trigonometric function

AI Thread Summary
To derive a right triangle from trigonometric functions, start by setting the hypotenuse to 1, allowing you to express the opposite side as sin(x) and the adjacent side as cos(x). The triangle will have one angle as x and a right angle, making the third angle 90 - x. By using these relationships, you can calculate all sides of the triangle based on the chosen angle. Additional trigonometric identities can also provide alternative methods for solving the triangle. Understanding these fundamentals is essential for working with trigonometric functions effectively.
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How can I get a right triangle from the inputs and outputs of trigonometric functions?
For example: sin(x) = y
The triangle would have one angle as x and the opposite edge of the triangle would be y/hyp etc.
How can I get all of these values from any trigonometric function?
Please tell me if I am missing some needed values and if I need extra inputs.
Thank you in advance.
 
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Since the sin(x) is a ratio of sides y/hypotenuse, you can pick the value of one side say the hypotenuse to be 1 and the side opposite the angle x is what?

So now you have two sides of a right triangle what does that suggest to get the third side?

This is the most basic way to solve it, however there are other ways to solve this using trig identities too.
 
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I don't understand, can you format this like:
hyp =
a =
b =
?
 
Okay, draw a right triangle. You know angle x and you know there's a 90 degree angle too.

so what is the third angle in terms of x?
 
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enter said:
I don't understand, can you format this like:
hyp =
a =
b =
?

Use this diagram:

trigfunc.gif
Set the length of the hypotenuse, c = 1

sin θ = b then. What is a?
 
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jedishrfu said:
Okay, draw a right triangle. You know angle x and you know there's a 90 degree angle too.

so what is the third angle in terms of x?
90-x?
 
yes now follow @SteamKing 's diagram and you should be able to work out the other trig function values.
 
Ok, thank you!
 
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