Is trigonometry required for calculus

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SUMMARY

Understanding trigonometry is essential for mastering calculus, particularly concepts involving sine, cosine, and their identities. Key identities such as cos²(x) + sin²(x) = 1 and 2cos(x)sin(x) = sin(2x) are crucial for calculus applications. While advanced trigonometric formulas like the cosine rule are less frequently used, a foundational grasp of trigonometric functions is necessary for success in calculus.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of trigonometric functions (sine, cosine, tangent)
  • Familiarity with trigonometric identities
  • Knowledge of calculus fundamentals
  • Experience with mathematical problem-solving techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Study trigonometric identities in depth
  • Practice solving calculus problems that involve trigonometric functions
  • Explore the applications of trigonometry in calculus
  • Review the foundational concepts of sine and cosine functions
USEFUL FOR

Students preparing for calculus, educators teaching mathematics, and anyone seeking to strengthen their understanding of the relationship between trigonometry and calculus.

NewTrino
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Hello, I've recently been reading "Calculus made Easy" and realized that I've completely skipped over learning trigonometry. After the class I was taking (seventh grade advanced math, sadly) became completely insufficient for my desire to learn. I picked up the book at the local library, unfortunately forgetting about trigonometry until I ran into sine and cosine references. So I was wondering if knowing trigonometry is required for calculus or if I should just get the basic grasp on it.
 
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It's helpful to have a basic sense of what the sine and cosine represent. Most of trigonometry isn't used for calculus, though.
 
For better or worse if you are going to anything with calculus, it is hard to avoid trigonometry.
 
mathman said:
For better or worse if you are going to anything with calculus, it is hard to avoid trigonometry.

Never mind what I said earlier. This guy's right.
 
You'll need to know about sines, cosines, tangents, etc. You'll absolutely need to know about identities with those things. Identities like \cos^2(x)+\sin^2(x)=1 or 2\cos(x)\sin(x)=\sin(2x) are important.

Less important are the triangle-thingies. Formulas like sohcahtoa or the cosine rule are not so prevalent.
 

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