The discussion revolves around a problem with a cosine calculator where a participant expects the output of cos(-1) to yield π, either symbolically or numerically. The scope includes conceptual understanding of trigonometric functions and their outputs.
Participants express differing views on the expected output of the cosine function, with some clarifying the misunderstanding while others highlight the constraints of cosine values. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the participant's initial assumptions and the calculator's behavior.
The discussion highlights potential misunderstandings regarding the definitions and outputs of trigonometric functions, particularly in relation to their ranges and the distinction between cosine and inverse cosine.
You should be using cos-1, the inverse cosine function.Tyrion101 said:I have a cosine calculator problem, and it keeps coming up wrong. So I figured to test it would be to do cosine of -1 which should be pi, either symbolically or numerically but it doesn't come out with either.
Tyrion101 said:It either produces cos(1) or .540302. It used to give pi as the symbol or as the number. What did I change?
Tyrion101 said:So I figured to test it would be to do cosine of -1 which should be pi
This mistake suggests a fairly serious flaw in your understanding of these trig functions. The sine and cosine functions never get above 1 or below -1, so it's not possible for the cosine of any real number to be ##\pi##.Tyrion101 said:Thanks! I'd hate to fail the course because of a stupid mistake like this!