Finding Acute Angles in Right Triangles Using Inverse Tangent Function

This video tutorial teaches how to find the measure of an acute angle in a right triangle using the inverse tangent function. It begins with an introduction to the problem of determining acute angles when side lengths are known. The lesson reviews the mnemonic SOHCAHTOA to explain the relationships between side lengths and trigonometric functions. It then introduces inverse trigonometric functions, focusing on the inverse tangent function to calculate angle P. The tutorial provides a step-by-step guide to using a calculator for this purpose and clarifies the notation for inverse tangent. The lesson concludes by summarizing the key points covered.

What is the primary function used to find an acute angle in a right triangle when given the opposite and adjacent sides?

• Cosine

• Sine

• Secant

• Tangent

What does the 'S' in SOHCAHTOA stand for?

• Sine and Tangent

• Sine and Cosine

• Secant

• Sine

Which trigonometric function is used to find the ratio of the adjacent side to the hypotenuse?

• Sine

• Cosine

• Tangent

• Cotangent

If the tangent of angle P is 3/4, what is the measure of angle P?

• 60 degrees

• 30 degrees

• 36.9 degrees

• 45 degrees

What is a common mistake when using the inverse tangent function?

• Applying it to non-right triangles

• Using it without a calculator

• Using it to find the hypotenuse

• Confusing it with the reciprocal of tangent