INTRODUCTION TO TRIGONOMETRY

Angles……………..…………………………………………..……367
Coterminal Angles…………….…..…………………….……..…..372
Conversions…………...……………………………………………377
Basic Trigonometric Functions…………..…………..…….……..381
Reference Angles…..……………………………………..………..385
Trigonometric Functions of Any Angle………………….………388
The Unit Circle……………………………………………..……..399
Using the Unit Circle……………………………………….……..406
Trigonometric Equations…………………………………..……..414

365
 Objectives

The following is a list of objectives for this section of the workbook.

By the time the student is finished with this section of the workbook, he/she should be able
to…
• Give a graphical representation of any angle.
• Find positive and negative coterminal angles.
• Convert an angle measured in degrees to radians.
• Convert an angle measured in radians to degrees.
• Evaluate the basic trigonometric functions.
• Use reference angles to evaluate the basic trigonometric functions.
• Construct a unit circle.
• Use the unit circle to evaluate basic trigonometric functions.
• Use the unit circle to solve trigonometric equations.

Math Standards Addressed

The following state standards are addressed in this section of the workbook.

Trigonometry

1.0 Students understand the notion of angle and how to measure it, in both degrees and radians. They can convert
between degrees and radians.

2.0 Students know the definition of sine and cosine as y- and x- coordinates of points on the unit circle and are
familiar with the graphs of the sine and cosine functions.

3.0 Students know the identity cos2 (x) + sin2 (x) = 1:

3.1 Students prove that this identity is equivalent to the Pythagorean theorem (i.e., students can
prove this identity by using the Pythagorean theorem and, conversely, they can prove the
Pythagorean theorem as a consequence of this identity).

3.2 Students prove other trigonometric identities and simplify others by using the identity cos2 (x)
+ sin2 (x) = 1. For example, students use this identity to prove that sec2 (x) = tan2 (x) + 1.

366
 Angles

In trigonometry, we study angles and triangles. Before discussing angles, however, there are
a few vocabulary terms that will be necessary. Each angle has an initial side and a terminal
side. It will help to think of an angle in the following manner.

Begin by picturing a standard Cartesian Plane with two rays resting on the positive side of the
x axis. As one of the sides moves in a counterclockwise direction, the other stays put. As the
ray moves, an angle is being created at their vertex. The line segment that remains on the
positive side of the x axis is called the Initial Side of the angle. The line segment that is
moving is known as the Terminal Side of the angle.

Notice the symbol used in the picture above. That symbol ( θ ) is the Greek letter theta. In
trigonometry, Greek letters are often used to represent angles.

There are also some basic geometric terms that will be used in the study of trigonometry.

Recall that an Acute Angle is an angle that is less than 90 degrees, while an Obtuse Angle is
an angle whose measure is between 90 and 180 degrees.

Supplementary Angles are two angles whose sum is 180 degree. ComplimentaryAngles are
angles whose sum is 90 degrees.
In trigonometry, a plane is divided into four quadrants.

367
An angle whose initial side is on the positive side of the x axis is said to be in Standard
Position. An angle is positive if the terminal side is moving in a counterclockwise direction.
An angle is negative if the terminal side is moving in a clockwise direction.

In trigonometry, a plane is divided into four quadrants.

According to the diagram above, the terminal side of a 20° angle would reside in quadrant I.
However, an angle that measures 380° would also share the same terminal side. The only
difference being, the terminal side of the 380° angle makes a complete revolution before
finally coming to a stop.

368
Here are a couple of examples of how to give a graphical representation of an angle.

Give a graphical representation of an angle that measures 390°.

In the above example, a 390° angle moves in a counterclockwise direction, and makes one
complete revolution where the terminal side ends up in quadrant I.

Give a graphical representation of an angle that measures -120°.

In the above example, a -120° moves in a clockwise direction, and the terminal side resides in
quadrant III.

369
Give a graphical representation of each of the following angles.

A) 130° B) 45° C) −30°

D) −172° E) 200° F) 135°

G) −700° H) −300° I) 290°

J) 695° K) −200° L) −540°

M) −382° N) 810° O) −830°

370
Determine the quadrant in which the terminal side of each of the following angles resides.

A) 172° B) −315° C) 718°

D) 415° E) −63° F) 135°

G) −700° H) 1020° I) −284°

J) 615° K) −200° L) −540°

M) −450° N) −700° O) 840°

371
 Coterminal Angles

Coterminal Angles are angles who share the same initial side and terminal sides. Finding
coterminal angles is as simple as adding or subtracting 360° or 2π to each angle, depending
on whether the given angle is in degrees or radians. There are an infinite number of
coterminal angles that can be found. Following this procedure, all coterminal angles can be
found. This is the basis for solving trigonometric equations which will be done in the future.

Radians are often used in trigonometry to represent angle measures. Radian measures are
very common in calculus, so it is important to have an understanding of what a radian is.

Definition of a Radian
A radian is the measure of a central angle θ that intercepts an arc s equal in length to the
radius r of the circle. There are 2π , or approximately 6.28318, radians in a complete circle.
Thus, one radian is about 57.296 angular degrees.

In other words, if we were to take the length of the radius of a circle, and lay in on the edge
of a circle, that length would be one radian.

The number π is often used when describing radian measure. The approximate value of π is
3.14159... A plane, in trigonometry, can not only be divided into quadrants using degree
measures, but radian as well. Observe the following moving in a counterclockwise direction.

372
When studying trigonometry, angles are usually measured in radians.

In relation to degrees, 180° is π radians. This means 2π radians is 360°. Since the
approximate value of π is 3.14159..., it follows that 360° is approximately 6.28318...radians.
When evaluating angles in trigonometry or calculus, always be aware of whether the question
is given in terms of degrees or radians. If no degree symbol is given, the problem is in
radians.

Examples of finding coterminal angles

Find one positive angle that is coterminal to 50°.

Since the terminal side of a 50° angle resides in quadrant I, the terminal side of its coterminal angle
must share that side. This means the new angle would make one complete revolution before having its
terminal side come to rest at the same place.

Therefore, to find the coterminal angle to a 50° angle, just add 360°.

50° + 360° = 410°

Below is the graphical representation of a 50° angle. To find the coterminal angle of a 50° angle, add 360°.
Since its coterminal angle must share the same It would follow that 50°+360°=410°. A 410° angle is
terminal side, it is reasonable to create a new angle that illustrated below. From the graphical representation
makes one complete revolution and ends up in the same of the angle, we can conclude that these two angle do
place. indeed share the same terminal side, meaning they are
coterminal.

373
Find one positive angle that is coterminal to 110°.
110° + 360° = 470°

Find two positive angles that are coterminal to -30°.

-30°+ 360° = 330°
330°+ 360° = 690°
In this case, the two positive coterminal angles to -30° are 330° and 690°.

If more than one positive coterminal angle needs to be found, simply add another 360°. This
would essentially make the new angle complete two full revolutions before its terminal side
comes to rest.

Find one negative angle that is coterminal to 30°.

A negative angle moves in a clockwise direction. In this case, to find the negative coterminal angle,
subtract 360° from 30°.

30° - 360° = -330°

Below is a 30° angle in standard position. This angle Here is a -330° angle. As the angle opens clockwise, it
opens in a counterclockwise direction. shares the same terminal side as the 30° angle.

374
Find one negative angle that is coterminal to 150°.
150° - 360° = -210°

Find one negative angle that is coterminal to 415°.

415° - 360° = 55°
Although 55° is a coterminal angle to 415°, this is not a solution to the problem. The problem
specifically asked for a negative angle, so the process needs to take place one more time.

55° - 360° = -305°

These were all examples of finding coterminal angles. If the initial

angle is given in the form or radians, add or subtract 2π instead of
360°.
π
Find a positive and negative angle that is coterminal to an angle that is radians.
6
π π
+ 2π − 2π
6 6
π 12π π 12π
+ −
6 6 6 6
13π 11π
−
6 6
Adding 2π to the original angle yields the positive By subtracting 2π from the original angle, the
coterminal angle. negative coterminal angle has been found.

11π
Find two positive angles that are coterminal to an angle that is radians.
2
11π 7π
− 2π − 2π
2 2
11π 4π 7π 4π
− −
2 2 2 2
7π 3π
2 2
11π
Since is more than one complete revolution, 2π was subtracted from the initial angle yielding a coterminal
2
7π
angle of . This is still at least one full revolution, so 2π was subtracted yet again. This process resulted in
2
7π 3π
the two positive coterminal angles of and .
2 2

375
Find one positive and one negative coterminal angle of each of the following. There is no need
to graph the angles.

A) 30° B) -40° C) 150° D) 220°

π 5π 2π
E) -330° F) G) H) −
3 2 3

5π 5π 4π
I) − J) K) − L) 300°
6 3 3

17π 7π
M) 700° N) − O) P) −410°
6 3

31π 15π 5π
Q) 1000° R) S) − T)
6 4 6

376
 Conversions

Since both degrees and radian measures will be dealt with in trigonometry, it will sometimes
be necessary to convert degrees to radians, or radians to degrees.

The following formulas are used for such conversions.

Degrees to Radians Radians to Degrees

π 180°
Degrees × Radians ×
180° π

Example
3π
Convert 80° to radians. Convert − radians to degrees.
4
π
80° ⋅ 3π 180°
180° − ⋅
4 π
80π
540°
180 −
4
4π
−135°
9
Notice the negative sign is kept in the
problem. Once the final product is
Once the final product is reduced, it is
4π 3π
evident that 80° is equal to radians. reduced, it can be concluded that −
9 4
radians is equal to -135°

Convert 3 radians to degrees.

In this example, there is no degree symbol next to the
180° 540° 3. This means we are looking at 3 radians. Once 3 is
3⋅ = ≈ 171.887° multiplied by 180°, divide the result by π . This will
π π result in a decimal estimate of the measure of the
angle.

Why are these conversion formulas necessary?

There are certain formulas used in trigonometry such as the, arc-length formula, where the
angle used in the calculations must be in radians. These conversion formulas will allow this
to be done. Also, it is sometimes difficult to tell in which quadrant the terminal side of an
angle lies when it is written in radians. Converting from radians to degrees will make this
process easier.

377
Convert each of the following to Radians.

A) 120° B) 210° C) −60° D) 420°

E) −110° F) 330° G) −45° H) 150°

I) 300° J) −135° K) 450° L) −210°

M) 720° N) 315° O) −30° P) 60°

Q) −15° R) 45° S) 225° T) 360°

378
Convert each of the following from Radians to Degrees.
π 5π π 3π
A) B) C) − D)
6 3 2 4

π 5π 7π π
E) − F) − G) H) −
4 6 6 6

11π 2π
I) 2.3 J) K) −1.28 L) −
6 3

7π 4π 5π
M) N) − O) P) π
4 3 4

13π 11π
Q) R) 4.3 S) 2π T) −
6 3

9π 31π 11π 23π

U) − V) W) X)
4 6 2 6

379
Determine the quadrant in which the terminal side of following angles resides.

π 5π π 3π
A) B) C) − D)
6 3 2 4

π 5π 7π π
E) − F) − G) H) −
4 6 6 6

11π 2π
I) 2.3 J) K) −1.28 L) −
6 3

7π 4π 5π
M) N) − O) P) π
4 3 4

13π 11π
Q) R) 4.3 S) 2π T) −
6 3

9π 31π 11π 23π

U) − V) W) X)
4 6 2 6

380
 Basic Trigonometric Functions

There are six basic trigonometric functions used in trigonometry.

Below are the names of the six functions and their three letter abbreviation.

Sine (sin) Cosecant (csc)

Cosine(cos) Secant (sec)
Tangent (tan) Cotangent (cot)

These six trigonometric functions are used to evaluate acute angles in a right triangle. The
ratio of the lengths of two sides of a right triangle will be used to evaluate a given angle θ .
We will go back to something introduced in geometry for this.

Soh-Cah-Toa
opposite adjacent opposite
sin θ = cos θ = tan θ =
hypotenuse hypotenuse adjacent

The second set of trigonometric functions, are reciprocal functions.

1 1 1
csc θ = sec θ = cot θ =
sin θ cos θ tan θ

Therefore, it follows that...

hyp hyp adj

csc θ = sec θ = cot θ =
opp adj opp

Exercises that require finding the exact value of the six trigonometric functions follow on the
next few pages. Sometimes, only two of the three sides of a triangle will be given requiring the
student to find the third.

When given the lengths of two sides of a right triangle, how can the length of the third side
be found?

381
Example
Find the exact values of the six trigonometric functions of θ .

In this example, the length of the side adjacent to the

angle θ measures 5 units, while the opposite side
measures 6 units. In order to find the missing side, the
Pythagorean Theorem must be used.

a2 + b2 = c2
(5) + ( 6 ) = c2
2 2

Using the Pythagorean Theorem, the length of the

25 + 36 = c 2 hypotenuse is 61 units.
61 = c 2

61 = c

Once the value of the hypotenuse is found, we can find

the exact value of the six trigonometric functions of the
angle θ .

6 6 61 61
sin θ = = csc θ = Evaluate the first three functions using
61 61 6 Soh-Cah-Toa.
5 5 61 61 opp adj opp
cos θ = = sec θ = sin θ = cos θ = tan θ =
61 61 5 hyp hyp adj
Evaluate second set of functions by finding the
6 5
tan θ = cot θ = reciprocals of the first three.
5 6 Do not forget to rationalize any denominators if
needed.

6 61 61
sin θ = csc θ =
61 6 Here are the exact values of the six trigonometric
5 61 61 functions of the angle θ . Radicals are left in the
cos θ = sec θ = solutions because we need the exact values, not
61 5 estimates.
6 5
tan θ = cot θ =
5 6

382
Find the exact values of the six trigonometric functions of θ .

A) B)

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

C) D)

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

E) F)

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

383
Continued

G) H)

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

I) J)

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

K) L)

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

384
 Reference Angles

The angles we will evaluate in trigonometry will always rest between the terminal side of that
angle, and the x axis. Below is a graphical representation of a 150° angle.

In the illustration above, the terminal side of a 150° angle, in standard position, resides in
quadrant II. In order to evaluate the six trigonometric functions of an angle θ , we are
required to use a reference angle.

A reference angle is the acute angle θ ' (read as theta prime) formed by the
terminal side of the angle θ , and the x axis.

REFERENCE ANGLES ARE ALWAYS DRAWN IN RELATION TO THE X AXIS.

Therefore, to evaluate the six trigonometric functions of a 150° angle in standard position, a
30° angle will be used.

Since the horizontal in quadrant II represents 180°,

evaluate 180° - 150° to find θ , which is this case is
'

30°. This is not the same method that will be used for
every angle.

385
If for example, we need to find a reference angle of a 200° angle, evaluate 200° - 180° = 20°.

Here are some guidelines for finding reference angles. The method used to find a reference
angle depends on the quadrant in which the terminal side of the angle resides.

• If the terminal side of an angle θ rests in quadrant I, θ ' = θ .

• If the terminal side of an angle θ rests in quadrant II, θ ' = 180° − θ or θ ' = π − θ .

• If the terminal side of an angle θ rests in quadrant III, θ ' = θ − 180° or θ ' = θ − π .

• If the terminal side of an angle θ rests in quadrant IV, θ ' = 360° − θ or θ ' = 2π − θ .

Example 1
The angle θ = −150° . Find the reference angle θ ' .

Begin by finding the positive coterminal angle to a -150° angle.

-150° + 360° = 210°

The terminal side of a 210° angle resides in quadrant III. Therefore, to find the reference
angle use θ ' = θ − 180° .

210° - 180° = 30°

θ ' = 30°

Example 2
The angle θ = 2.5 . Find the reference angle θ ' .

In this case, there is no degree symbol. This means the measure of angle θ is 2.5 radians.

First use the formula to convert radians to degrees.

180°
2.5 ⋅ ≈ 143.239°
π

Since the question was asked in terms of radians, the answer must be given in the same way.
Converting the angle measure to degrees allows us to get a clear picture of where the terminal
side of the angle will lie. In this case, the terminal side of an angle that measures 2.5 radians
lies in quadrant II.

To find the reference angle, evaluate θ ' = π − θ .

θ ' = π − 2.5
θ ' ≈ 0.642 radians

386
As illustrated in example 1 on the previous page, it is sometimes necessary to find a coterminal
angle first. If θ is negative, first find the coterminal angle, then use that to find the reference
angle. If the measure of the original angle is given in degrees, its reference angle must also be
in degrees. If the measure of the original angle is given in radians, then the reference angle
found must also be in radians. Exact solutions should be found whenever possible. In
example 2 on the previous page, it was impossible to give an exact solution, because the
measure of angle θ did not include π . Therefore, a decimal approximation had to be made.

For each of the following, find the reference angle θ ' .

7π 5π
A) θ = 57° B) θ = 113° C) θ = D) θ =
6 3

2π
E) θ = − F) θ = −230° G) θ = 300° H) θ = 2.3
3

I) θ = 280° J) θ = 1.2 K) θ = 420° L) θ = −60°

4π 11π
M) θ = −2 N) θ = 100° O) θ = − P) θ =
3 6

17π π 5π
Q) θ = −135° R) θ = S) θ = T) θ = −
6 3 3

387
 Trigonometric Functions of any Angle

When evaluating any angle θ , in standard position, whose terminal side is given by the
coordinates (x,y), a reference angle is always used. Notice how a right triangle has been
created. This will allow us to evaluate the six trigonometric functions of any angle.

Notice the side opposite the angle θ has a length of the y value of the given coordinates. The
adjacent side has a length of the x value of the coordinates. The length of the hypotenuse is

given by x2 + y2 .

Lets say, for the sake of argument, the length of the hypotenuse is 1 unit. This would mean
the following would be true.

1
sin θ = y csc θ =
y
1
cos θ = x sec θ =
x
y x
tan θ = cot θ =
x y
You must think of the sine function as giving you the y value, whereas the cosine function
yields the x value. This is how we will determine whether the sine, cosine, tangent, cosecant,
secant or cotangent of a given angle is a positive or negative value.

If the angle to be evaluated is in quadrant IV, for instance, the sine of the angle θ will be
negative. The cosine of θ , in this instance, will be positive, while the tangent of the angle θ
will be negative.

388
Example
Evaluate the six trigonometric functions of an angle θ , in standard position, whose
terminal side has an endpoint of (-3,2).

The angle with terminal side is first drawn.

Remember, in order to evaluate the six trigonometric
functions for θ , use the reference angle θ .
'

From the endpoint of the terminal side of the angle, a

line is drawn to the x axis. This is the reason reference
angles are always drawn in relation to the x axis. It
will always create a right triangle with which to work.
Now all that is needed to solve the problem, is to find
the length of the hypotenuse then the values of the six
trigonometric functions can be found.

Using the Pythagorean Theorem, the length of the

hypotenuse may be found.
2 2 + 32 = c 2
4 + 9 = c2
13 = c 2
13 = c

The first three functions are evaluated using

2 2 13 13 Soh-Cah-Toa.
sin θ = = csc θ =
13 13 2 opp adj opp
sin θ = cos θ = tan θ =
3 3 13 13 hyp hyp adj
cos θ = − =− sec θ = − To find the second set of functions take the reciprocals
13 13 3 of the first three. Rationalize any denominators if
2 3 needed. Note the terminal side to this angle is in
tan θ = − cot θ = − quadrant II. This means cosine, tangent, secant and
3 2 cotangent are all negative values.

389
Example
Evaluate the six trigonometric functions of the angle θ , in standard position, whose
terminal side has an endpoint of (-4,-3).

Begin by drawing the angle θ in standard position

whose terminal side has the endpoint of (-4,-3).

A right triangle is formed by drawing a line segment

to the x axis. Now use the reference angle that is
drawn in relation to the x axis to evaluate the six
trigonometric functions.

Since this is obviously a 3-4-5 right triangle, there is

no need to use the Pythagorean Theorem in this case.

3 5
sin θ = − csc θ = − Since this angle resides in quadrant III, sine, cosine,
5 3
cosecant and secant are negative values. Tangent is
4 5
cos θ = − sec θ = − y
and cotangent is
x
. This means both tangent
5 4 x y
3 4
tan θ = cot θ = and cotangent will be positive values.
4 3

390
Evaluate the six trigonometric functions of the angle θ , in standard position, that has a
terminal side with the following endpoints. (Remember, reference angles are always drawn in relation
to the x axis.)

A) ( 3,5) B) ( 2, −1)

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

C) ( −4, 2 ) D) ( −3, −5)

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

E) (1, −7 ) F) ( −6,1)

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

391
 1  1 2
G)  ,8  H)  , − 
2  4 5

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

I) ( −2, −9 ) J) ( −1, 6 )

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

3 4
K) ( 4, −3) L)  , 
4 5

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

392
Once again, think of the sine of an angle θ as yielding the y value, while the cosine yields the
x value when the hypotenuse is 1. Since the tangent of an angle is y over x, as sin θ = y and
sin θ
cos θ = x ; it is a trigonometric identity that tan θ = .
cos θ

If the hypotenuse is any other length, the following is true.

y h
sin θ = csc θ =
h y
x h
cos θ = sec θ =
h x
y x
tan θ = cot θ =
x y

These are the actual equations used for evaluating the six trigonometric functions. The
reason we think of sine being the y value, cosine being the x value, and tangent being sine
divided by cosine is to determine whether the value of a trigonometric function is positive or
negative. This of course all depends on where the terminal side of the angle lies.

The following questions will require evaluating the six trigonometric functions of an angle θ
given different types of information. Understand that these are the same types of questions
encountered on the previous pages, just asked in a different manner.

Evaluate the six trigonometric functions of an angle θ , in standard position,

2
where sin θ = and cos θ < 0.
3

This question will be done shortly. Since the sine of an angle can be thought of as the y value
there are two quadrants in which sine is positive. It is therefore necessary to have one more
piece of information to answer the question. There is some vital information that is needed to
answer this type of question.

The following guidelines will help determine in which quadrant an angle lies.

• Sine is positive in quadrants I and II.

• Sine is negative in quadrants III and IV.
• Cosine is positive in quadrants I and IV.
• Cosine is negative in quadrants II and III.
• Tangent is positive in quadrants I and III.
• Tangent is negative in quadrants II and IV.

For this particular problem, sin θ > 0 and tan θ < 0 , this means the angle θ must reside in
quadrant II. This information tells us where to construct our triangle.

393
Before we answer the sample question, here is some practice using this information.

Given the following information, determine the quadrant in which the angle θ resides.

A) cos θ > 0 and sin θ < 0 B) tan θ > 0 and cos θ < 0

C) sin θ > 0 and tan θ < 0 D) tan θ < 0 and cosθ <0

E) sec θ > 0 and csc θ > 0 F) cot θ > 0 and sec θ > 0

G) csc θ < 0 and cos θ < 0 H) cot θ > 0 and sec θ < 0

Example
2
Evaluate the six trigonometric functions of an angle θ , in standard position, where sin θ =
3
and cos θ < 0.

According to the information given, the sine of the

angle is positive and cosine is negative. This means
the terminal side of the angle to be evaluated must
be in quadrant II.

394
 From here, we will use the reference angle drawn
in relation to the x axis. A right triangle is then
constructed. Since the sine of an angle is opposite
over hypotenuse, the 2 and the 3 can be placed on
the appropriate sides of the triangle.

Using the Pythagorean Theorem, the adjacent side

is found to be 5 units.
x + 2 = 32
2 2

x2 + 4 = 9
x2 = 5
x= 5

2 3
sin θ = csc θ = At the beginning of the problem, the value of sine
3 2 was given. Therefore, we can fill in the values of
sine and cosecant right away. From that point, the
5 3 3 5
cos θ = − sec θ = − =− other values can be found using:
3 5 5 Soh-Cah-Toa.
opp adj opp
2 2 5 5 sin θ = cos θ = tan θ =
tan θ = − =− cot θ = − hyp hyp adj
5 5 2

2 3
sin θ = csc θ =
3 2
Here are the values of the six trigonometric
5 3 5
cos θ = − sec θ = − functions of the angle θ .
3 5
2 5 5
tan θ = − cot θ = −
5 2

395
Find the exact value of the six trigonometric functions of an angle θ , in standard position,
given the following information.
1 3
A) cos θ = , sin θ < 0 B) sin θ = − , tan θ > 0
2 4

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

1
C) sin θ = , cos θ > 0 D) sec θ = 3, csc θ < 0
4

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

5 3
E) tan θ = − , sin θ < 0 F) cos θ = , sin θ < 0
2 2

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

396
Continued
3
G) csc θ = , cos θ < 0 H) cot θ = 2, cos θ > 0
2

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

1 2
I) sec θ = − , cot θ < 0 J) cot θ = , sin θ < 0
5 3

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

2 3 3 5
K) csc θ = , cos θ > 0 L) sec θ = − , tan θ < 0
3 5

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =
tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

397
Answer the following questions, keeping the following information in mind.

y h
sin θ = csc θ =
h y
x h
cos θ = sec θ =
h x
y x
tan θ = cot θ =
x y
Describe all angles that satisfy the questions below in the interval 0° ≤ θ ≤ 360° .

What angle would cause the value of tan θ to be undefined?

What angle would cause the value of tan θ equal zero?

What angle would cause cot θ to be undefined?

What angle would cause the value of cot θ to be equal to zero?

What angle would cause the value of sin θ to be equal to zero?

What angle would cause the value of csc θ to be undefined?

What angle would cause the value of cos θ to be equal to zero.

What angle would cause the value of sec θ to be undefined?

398
 The Unit Circle

The unit circle is without a doubt the most critical topic a student must understand in
trigonometry. The unit circle is the foundation on which trigonometry is based. If someone
were to look at the unit circle and try to memorize it, they may find it difficult. In this section,
we will discuss how to construct the unit circle, and exactly where those numbers on the unit
circle come from.

This is called the unit circle, because the radius of the circle is exactly one unit. The numbers
on the outside of the circle represent coordinates. These will be the x and y values with which
various trigonometric functions can be evaluated. The numbers on the inside represent the
radian measure of the angle. The construction of the unit circle entails the use of a
conversion formula, and two different triangles. The two triangle used in the construction of
a unit circle are a 30°-60°-90° right triangle, and a 45°-45°-90° right triangle. The lengths of
the sides of the 30°-60°-90° triangle can be derived from a standard equilateral triangle.

399
The 30°-60°-90° triangle

To the right is a standard equilateral triangle. In this

particular triangle, the length of each side is one unit.

If the equilateral triangle is bisected, a 30°-60°-90°

right triangle is formed. Since the triangle is bisected,
the base is cut in half. The find the height of the
triangle, use the Pythagorean Theorem.
2

x +
 1  = 12

2

2
1
x + =1
2

4
3
x =
2

4
3
x=
2
3
As a result, the side opposite the 60° angle has a length of units, while the side opposite the 30° angle has a
2
1
length of units. The hypotenuse was never touched, so the length of the hypotenuse remains 1 unit.
2

The 45°-45°-90° triangle

The lengths of the legs of a 45°-45°-90° triangle can be
found using the Pythagorean Theorem. Since this is
an isosceles triangle, the length of the two legs are
equal to each other.
x + x =1
2 2 2

2x = 1
2

1
x =
2

2
2
x=
2

2
When dealing with a 45°-45°-90° triangle, the length of the sides opposite the 45° angles is
2

400
Building the Unit Circle
The first objective when building the unit circle is to use the conversion formula to find out the radian measures
for a 30° angle, and a 45° angle. All of the angles used on the unit circle are multiples of the 30° angle and the
45° angle. Therefore, all that is needed it to add the required set. In other words, 120° is made up by 4 30°
π 4π 2π
angles. A 30° angle is radians. Adding four of these together results in radians which reduces to .
6 6 3
π π
30° ⋅ 45° ⋅
180° 180°
30π 45π
180 180
π π
6 4
π π
Using the conversion formula, a 30° angle is radians, and a 45° angle is radians.
6 4

π
Begin at the 30° angle. Place at that location and move around the circle in a counterclockwise direction
6
π
adding by at every 30° increment. Make sure to reduce the totals when possible. For example, in the above
6
π 2π π
diagram, to find the radian measure for 60°, add together twice. The results in which is reduced to .
6 6 3

401
In the diagram on the right,
all multiples of the 30°
angles have been completed.

The next step is to continue

moving counterclockwise,
inputting all 45° angles.

π
A 45° angle is radians.
4

Remember to reduce any

fractions if possible.

402
If a diagonal is drawn at
the 30° angle, it will
intercept the circle the
first point. From there,
a line is drawn to the x
axis. This creates a 30°-
60°-90° triangle. As
demonstrated before:

The side opposite the 30°

1
angle has a length of .
2

The side opposite the 60°

angle has a length of
3
.
2

Since the length of the

hypotenuse is 1 unit, we
have found the x and y
π
values at . This yields
6
 3 1
to coordinates  , .
 2 2

In this instance, a
diagonal is drawn at the
45° angle to intercept the
arc of the circle. The
second line is then drawn
to the x axis creating a
45°-45°-90° triangle.

The hypotenuse of the

triangle has a length of 1
unit.

The length of the legs of

the 45°-45°-90° triangle
2
is units.
2
The x and y values here
can be put together to
find the coordinates of
 2 2
 , .
 2 2 

403
 The same process is done
π
for .
3

Once again, a triangle is

formed from which the
lengths of the sides of the
triangle are determined.

The coordinates here are

1 3
 , .
2 2 

To fill in the remaining

coordinates use reflections
of the triangle. As
illustrated here, the lengths
of the sides of the triangle
formed at 11π are the same
6
as those for π .
6

When labeling the

coordinate here, however,
the y value must be negative
because the angle is in
quadrant IV.

Once the coordinates are

found in quadrant I, all
others are reflections. Just
take care with the sign
being used.

Since the hypotenuse is

always one, the coordinates
on the axes are simple to
find.

404
Complete the unit circle. Label all required radians and the coordinates for each.

405
 Using the Unit Circle

The hypotenuse of the unit circle has a length of one unit. Therefore, whenever any angle
needs to be evaluated using any of the trigonometric functions, the following will be used.

1
sin θ = y csc θ =
y
1
cos θ = x sec θ =
x
y x
tan θ = cot θ =
x y

Think of the sine of an angle being the y value of the coordinate, the cosine of an angle as
being the x value of the coordinate, and the tangent of an angle being x over y. Then the
reciprocals will be taken for the second set of functions.

406
When reading through the following examples, refer to the unit circle on the previous page.

Examples
4π
Find the exact value of the six trigonometric functions for .
3
sin
4π
=−
3
csc
4π
=−
2
=−
2 3 Locate the coordinates at 4 π . The y value at
3 2 3 3 3 3

4π 1 4π 4π 4π 1
cos =− sec = −2 is −
3
. The x value at is − .
3 2 3
3 2 3 2
4π  3 1   3  4π 1 3
tan = − ÷− =− ⋅ −2  = 3 cot = =
3  2   3 3 3 4π 3 4π 1
=− =−
2 2
Therefore, sin , and cos .
3 2 3 2
4π 3 4π 2 3
sin =− csc =− Tangent is y over x, so the quotient of the two
3 2 3 3
4π 1 4π is found. The remaining three are evaluated
cos =− sec = −2
3 2 3 using the reciprocal. All denominators must be
4π 4π 3 rationalized. The exact value of the function
tan = 3 cot =
3 3 3 means do not use decimal approximations..
11π
Find the exact value of the six trigonometric functions for − .
6
11π 1 11π
sin − = csc − =2
6 2 6
11π 3 11π 2 2 3
cos − = sec − = = In this case, − 11π is located in quadrant I.
6 2 6 3 3
6
11π  1 3 1 2  1 3 11π Moving in a clockwise direction, it is evident
tan − = ÷ = ⋅ = = cot − = 3
6  2 2   2 3  3 3 6 that − 11π is the same as π . This can also be
11π 1 11π 6 6
sin − = csc − =2 found using coterminal angles. If we add
6 2 6
2π to − 11π , the result is π . From this point,
11π 3 11π 2 3 6 6
cos − = sec− =
6 2 6 3 evaluate the six trigonometric functions.
11π 3 11π
tan − = cot − = 3
6 3 6
19π
Find the exact value of the six trigonometric functions for
6
In this example, it is obvious that 19π is
6
19π 1 19π greater than 2π . This is called a periodic
sin =− csc = −2 function. This means the angle makes at least
6 2 6
one complete revolution before coming to rest.
19π 3 19π 2 3 To find the angle that must be used, in this
cos =− sec =− case, subtract 2π from 19π . The result of
6 2 6 3 6
19π 3 19π this operation is 7 π . Therefore, in order to
tan = cot = 3 6
6 3 6 find the exact value of the six trigonometric
functions of 19π use the angle 7 π .
6 6

407
Use the unit circle above to find the exact value of the six trigonometric functions for each
of the following angles.

3π
A) B) 300°
4

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =

tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

408
 5π 2π
C) − D)
6 3

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =

tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

13π
E) F) −240°
3

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =

tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

7π
G) − H) 135°
2

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =

tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

13π 2π
I) J) −
6 3

sin θ = csc θ = sin θ = csc θ =

cos θ = sec θ = cos θ = sec θ =

tan θ = cot θ = tan θ = cot θ =

409
Use the unit circle above to find the exact value of each of the following.

π 2π
A) tan = B) cos = C) cos π =
4 3

11π  2π  π
D) sin = E) tan  − = F) csc =
6  3  3

4π  11π  13π
G) sec = H) cos  − = I) sin =
3  6  4

410
  5π   π 2π
J) csc  − = K) tan  −  = L) cot =
 6   6 3

 19π  π 11π
M) sec  − = N) cot = O) cot =
 3  4 6

 9π  21π 7π
P) cos  − = Q) sin = R) cot =
 2  4 4

26π π
S)  7π 
s in  − T) cot = U) cos =
 = 3 3
 6 

V)  1 1π 
sec  −  =
W) sin ( −7π ) = X) cot 2π =
 6 

Y)  2π 
cot  −  =
Z) csc 5π = a)  3π 
sec  −  =
 3  3  2 

b)  2 3π 
sec  − =
c) tan 3π = d) csc 7 π =
 6  4 6

e) sin 14π = f)  1 7π 
cos  −  =
g) cot 3π =
3  6  2

411
It is also possible to use the unit circle going backwards. The previous exercises require a
student to evaluate the trigonometric function of an angle using the unit circle. The samples
below require the student to work backwards. Given the value of the trigonometric function of
an angle θ , refer to the unit circle, and find the angle θ that makes the statement true. Given
a statement such as sin θ = 1 , we will work backwards to try to determine the angle θ that
2
would make the statement true.

For Example

1
Find all values of θ in the interval ( 0, 2π ] that make the statement cos θ = true.
2

Referring to the unit circle, look for x coordinates of

1 . This happens in two places, π and 5π .
2 3 3
π 5π
As a result, θ = ,
3 3

Find all values of θ in the interval ( 0, 2π ] that make the statement tan θ = − 3 true.

3
The only coordinate that has 3 in it is . That rules out any and all of the 45° angles or multiples thereof.
2
 3 1 1 3
It would therefore follow, that the 3 is a result of either  ÷  or  ÷ .
 2 2 2 2 
Working backwards will reveal what the result is.
 3 1  3 2 1 3  1 2  1 3
 ÷  = ⋅ = 3 2÷ =2÷ = =
 2 2  2 1  2   3 3 3

3 1
According to the work above a y value of divided by an x value of would yield a result of 3.
2 2
π 2π 4π 5π
This occurs at , , . and
3 3 3 3
Since tangent is y divided by x, and in this case, the tangent of θ is negative, it would stand to reason
that one of the coordinates used will be a negative, while the other is a positive. As discussed earlier, the tangent
of θ will be negative in quadrants II and IV.

2π 5π
The solution to this problem is: θ = ,
3 3

412
For each of the following, find all values of θ in the interval ( 0, 2π ] that make the
following statements true.

1 3
A) sin θ = B) cos θ = − C) cos θ = −1
2 2

3
D) sin θ = − E) csc θ = 2 F) cot θ = −1
2

2 3
G) tan θ = undefined H) csc θ = − I) tan θ = −1
3

3 1
J) tan θ = K) csc θ = undefined L) sin θ = ±
3 2

413
 Trigonometric Equations

Many of the skills used for solving algebraic equations will be used to solve trigonometric
equations. Trigonometric equations are solved using inverse operations. The ultimate
objective of solving trigonometric equations is to find the angle that makes the statement true.

Examples

Solve the following equations in the interval ( 0, 2π ] .

2 sin θ + 1 = 0

2 sin θ + 1 = 0
2sin θ = −1 Begin solving a trigonometric equation by
isolating the trigonometric function
1 involved.
sin θ = −
2

7π 11π At this point, find all angles in the interval

θ= , ( 0 , 2 π ] which make the equation true.
6 6

Solve the following equations in the interval ( 0, 2π ] . When dealing with trigonometric equations,
sin θ is the same type of thing as x
2 2
sin 2 θ − 1 = 0
In other words, ( sin 30° ) is written as
2

2
sin 30° .
sin 2 θ − 1 = 0
Solve the equation by isolating the
sin 2 θ = 1 trigonometric function, then taking the
square root of both sides. Do not forget to
sin 2 θ = ± 1 use ± when finding the solution.
sin θ = ±1

π 3π Here are the angles in the interval ( 0 , 2 π ]

θ= ,
2 2 that satisfy the equation.

Every algebraic equation that was solved previously will play into your ability to solve some of
the trigonometric equations you may face.

For example, the trigonometric equation csc 2 θ + 3csc θ + 2 = 0 is very similar to the quadratic
equation x 2 + 3 x + 2 = 0 . This trigonometric equation would be solved in the same manner as
the algebraic. Factor the equation out to ( csc θ + 1)( csc θ + 2 ) = 0 . Then, proceed to set each
factor equal to zero and solve.

414
Here are a couple of examples of trigonometric equations involving the reciprocal functions.

Solve the following equations in the interval ( 0, 2π ] .

sec θ + 2 = 0

sec θ + 2 = 0
sec θ = −2 Begin by isolating the trigonometric function.
Once that is done, raise both sides of the
1
= −2 equation to the negative first power essentially
cos θ taking the reciprocal of both sides. This yields
1 one of the basic three trigonometric functions.
cos θ = −
2

2π 4π The angles in the interval ( 0 , 2 π ] that satisfy

θ= ,
3 3 the equation are here.

Solve the following equations in the interval ( 0, 2π ] .

3csc2 θ + 6 = 10

3csc2 θ + 6 = 10
3csc 2 θ = 4
4
csc 2 θ = Once again, the trigonometric function is
3
isolated.
4
csc 2 θ = ± Taking the square root of both sides always
3 results in ± answers.
2
csc θ = ± Since the cosecant function is really the
3 reciprocal of the sine function, both sides are
1 2 flipped over.
=±
sin θ 3
3
sin θ = ±
2

π 2π 4π 5π Here are the angles in the interval ( 0 , 2 π ]

θ= , , ,
3 3 3 3 that satisfy the equation.

415
Solve each of the following trigonometric equations in the interval ( 0, 2π ] .

A) 2 sin θ − 1 = 0 B) cos θ + 1 = 0 C) tan θ + 1 = 0

D) 4 cos 2 θ − 3 = 0 E) 5 tan θ + 4 = 4 F) csc θ + 2 = 0

416
G) 4sin 2 θ − 2 = 0 H) 3csc2 θ − 4 = 0 I) 3 cot θ + 1 = 0

H) 2 sin 3 θ + sin 2 θ − 2sin θ − 1 = 0 J) sin 2 θ + sin θ = 0 K) sec θ − 1 = 0

L) sec 2 θ − 3sec θ + 2 = 0 M) csc 2 θ + 3csc θ + 2 = 0 N) tan 2 θ − 1 = 0

O) 4 cos3 θ − 2 cos θ = 0 P) csc 2 θ − 2 = 0 Q) cot 2 θ − 3 = 0

417
R) 4 sin 2 θ − 4sin θ + 1 = 0 S) 2 sin θ cos θ − cos θ = 0 T) 9sec 2 θ − 12 = 0

U) 4 sin θ cos θ + 2 cos θ − 2sin θ − 1 = 0 ( )

V) tan 2 θ − 1 + 3 tan θ + 3 = 0

418
 Checking Progress

You have now completed the “Introduction to Trigonometry” section of the workbook. The
following is a checklist so that you may check your progress. Check off each of the objectives
you have accomplished.

The student should be able to…

Give a graphical representation of any angle

Find positive and negative coterminal angles
Convert an angle measured in degrees to radians
Convert an angle measured in radians to degrees
Evaluate the basic trigonometric functions
Use reference angles to evaluate the basic trigonometric functions
Construct a unit circle
Use the unit circle to evaluate basic trigonometric functions
Use the unit circle to solve trigonometric equations

419