Which Radians to Use in Calculating Phase Constants?

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In calculating phase constants for oscillations, the choice of radians depends on the context of the problem. For the equation sin(theta) = 1/2, both pi/6 and 5pi/6 are valid solutions, but their implications differ. At pi/6, the oscillation's displacement is increasing, while at 5pi/6, it is decreasing. The specific scenario of the oscillation can guide the selection of the appropriate phase constant. Ultimately, the details of the problem will determine which value to use.
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I just have a simple question as to which radians to use in calculating phase constants in oscillations.
For example in sin(theta) = 1/2, do I use the (pi)/6 or 5(pi)/6?

The exact question has a diagram and is difficult to explain, but I just want a general explanation.

Thank you!
 
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It's a little hard to answer this without more information. If you're just trying to solve the equation,

\sin \theta = 1/2

then there are more than one solution.

But you did say the problem deals with oscillations and phase constants. Can you use the information that:
1) at pi/6, the oscillation's displacement is increasing
2) whereas at 5 pi/6, the displacement is decreasing
to somehow decide on one value or the other? The answer would depend on details of the problem you are trying to solve.
 
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