Trig: Find Missing Side

Front

What is the Pythagorean Theorem?

Back

The Pythagorean Theorem states that in a right triangle, the square of the length of the hypotenuse (c) is equal to the sum of the squares of the lengths of the other two sides (a and b). Formula: a² + b² = c².

Front

How do you find the length of a missing side in a right triangle?

Back

To find the length of a missing side in a right triangle, use the Pythagorean Theorem. Rearrange the formula to solve for the missing side.

Front

What is the sine function in relation to a right triangle?

Back

The sine function (sin) is defined as the ratio of the length of the opposite side to the length of the hypotenuse. Formula: sin(θ) = opposite/hypotenuse.

Front

What is the cosine function in relation to a right triangle?

Back

The cosine function (cos) is defined as the ratio of the length of the adjacent side to the length of the hypotenuse. Formula: cos(θ) = adjacent/hypotenuse.

Front

What is the tangent function in relation to a right triangle?

Back

The tangent function (tan) is defined as the ratio of the length of the opposite side to the length of the adjacent side. Formula: tan(θ) = opposite/adjacent.

Front

How do you use trigonometric ratios to find a missing side?

Back

Identify the known angle and the sides involved. Use the appropriate trigonometric ratio (sine, cosine, or tangent) to set up an equation and solve for the missing side.

Front

What is the relationship between the angles and sides in a right triangle?

Back

In a right triangle, the angles determine the ratios of the sides. The larger the angle, the longer the opposite side relative to the adjacent side.

Front

What is the importance of rounding in trigonometric calculations?

Back

Rounding is important in trigonometric calculations to provide a practical answer that is easy to interpret, especially when dealing with measurements.

Front

How do you estimate the height of an object using trigonometry?

Back

To estimate the height of an object, measure the distance from the object and the angle of elevation to the top of the object. Use the tangent function to calculate the height.

Front

What is the formula for finding the height of a tree using trigonometry?

Back

Height = Distance × tan(angle of elevation). This formula uses the tangent function to relate the height of the tree to the distance from the observer.