Log In Sign Up
Sign Up
All Topics
maths-ai-sl | ib
Responsive Image
1. Statistics and Probability
2. Geometry and Trigonometry
3. Number and Algebra
4. Calculus
5. Functions
6. Experimental Investigation (Internal Assessment)
Sine, cosine and tangent functions

Topic 2/3

left-arrow
left-arrow
archive-add download share
  • Study Guides Revision Notes
  • Past Paper Analysis Past Paper Analysis
  • Exam Questions Questions
  • Flashcards Flashcards
  • Videos Videos

Sine, Cosine and Tangent Functions

Introduction

Trigonometric functions, namely sine, cosine, and tangent, play a pivotal role in the study of mathematics, particularly within the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum for Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches Standard Level (AI SL). These functions are fundamental in understanding periodic phenomena, modeling real-world scenarios, and solving various geometric and algebraic problems. Mastery of sine, cosine, and tangent functions is essential for students to excel in advanced mathematical concepts and applications.

Key Concepts

1. Definitions and Fundamental Concepts

Trigonometric functions are ratios derived from the angles and sides of right-angled triangles. The primary functions—sine (sin), cosine (cos), and tangent (tan)—are defined as follows:
  • Sine ($\sin$): For an acute angle $\theta$ in a right-angled triangle, $\sin(\theta) = \dfrac{\text{Opposite Side}}{\text{Hypotenuse}}$.
  • Cosine ($\cos$): $\cos(\theta) = \dfrac{\text{Adjacent Side}}{\text{Hypotenuse}}$.
  • Tangent ($\tan$): $\tan(\theta) = \dfrac{\text{Opposite Side}}{\text{Adjacent Side}} = \dfrac{\sin(\theta)}{\cos(\theta)}$.
These functions are foundational in trigonometry and are essential for describing oscillatory and wave-like phenomena.

2. The Unit Circle and Trigonometric Functions

The unit circle, a circle with a radius of one unit centered at the origin of a coordinate system, provides a comprehensive framework for understanding trigonometric functions beyond acute angles. Any angle $\theta$ can be represented as a point $(x, y)$ on the unit circle, where:
  • $x = \cos(\theta)$
  • $y = \sin(\theta)$
The tangent function can be understood as the slope of the line formed by the terminal side of the angle $\theta$: $$\tan(\theta) = \dfrac{y}{x}$$ This representation allows trigonometric functions to be extended to all real numbers, accommodating angles greater than 90 degrees and negative angles.

3. Graphs of Sine, Cosine, and Tangent Functions

Understanding the graphical behavior of trigonometric functions is crucial for analyzing periodic patterns and solving equations. Here's an overview of each function's graph:
  • Sine Function ($y = \sin(\theta)$):
    • Domain: All real numbers.
    • Range: $[-1, 1]$.
    • Period: $2\pi$ radians.
    • Amplitude: 1.
    • Key Features: Starts at the origin (0,0), reaches maximum at $\pi/2$, crosses zero at $\pi$, reaches minimum at $3\pi/2$, and completes a cycle at $2\pi$.
    • Graph Shape: Smooth, continuous wave oscillating above and below the x-axis.
  • Cosine Function ($y = \cos(\theta)$):
    • Domain: All real numbers.
    • Range: $[-1, 1]$.
    • Period: $2\pi$ radians.
    • Amplitude: 1.
    • Key Features: Starts at (0,1), crosses zero at $\pi/2$, reaches minimum at $\pi$, crosses zero at $3\pi/2$, and returns to (2$\pi$,1).
    • Graph Shape: Similar to the sine curve but shifted $\pi/2$ radians to the left.
  • Tangent Function ($y = \tan(\theta)$):
    • Domain: All real numbers except odd multiples of $\pi/2$ (where $\cos(\theta) = 0$).
    • Range: All real numbers.
    • Period: $\pi$ radians.
    • Key Features: Passes through the origin, has vertical asymptotes at $\theta = \pi/2 + k\pi$ where $k$ is an integer.
    • Graph Shape: Repeating pattern of upward and downward branches between asymptotes.

4. Trigonometric Identities Involving Sine, Cosine, and Tangent

Trigonometric identities are equations that hold true for all values of the variables involved and are essential for simplifying expressions and solving equations. Key identities involving sine, cosine, and tangent include:
  • Pythagorean Identity: $$\sin^2(\theta) + \cos^2(\theta) = 1$$
  • Tangent in Terms of Sine and Cosine: $$\tan(\theta) = \dfrac{\sin(\theta)}{\cos(\theta)}$$
  • Reciprocal Identities:
    • $$\csc(\theta) = \dfrac{1}{\sin(\theta)}$$
    • $$\sec(\theta) = \dfrac{1}{\cos(\theta)}$$
    • $$\cot(\theta) = \dfrac{1}{\tan(\theta)}$$
  • Double Angle Identities:
    • $$\sin(2\theta) = 2\sin(\theta)\cos(\theta)$$
    • $$\cos(2\theta) = \cos^2(\theta) - \sin^2(\theta)$$
    • $$\tan(2\theta) = \dfrac{2\tan(\theta)}{1 - \tan^2(\theta)}$$
These identities are fundamental tools for solving complex trigonometric equations and proving other mathematical concepts.

5. Solving Trigonometric Equations

Solving equations involving sine, cosine, and tangent functions requires a solid understanding of their properties and identities. The general approach involves:
  1. Isolating the Trigonometric Function: Rearrange the equation to have the trigonometric function on one side.
  2. Applying Identities: Use trigonometric identities to simplify the equation.
  3. Finding General Solutions: Determine the general form of the solutions based on the periodicity of the function.
  4. Determining Specific Solutions: If within a particular interval, substitute values to find specific solutions.
Example: Solve $$\sin(\theta) = \dfrac{1}{2}$$ for $0 \leq \theta < 2\pi$.
  • Known solutions where sine is $1/2$ are at $\theta = \pi/6$ and $\theta = 5\pi/6$.
  • Thus, the solutions are $\theta = \pi/6, 5\pi/6$.

6. Applications of Sine, Cosine, and Tangent Functions

Trigonometric functions have widespread applications across various fields:
  • Physics: Describing oscillatory motion, waves, and alternating current circuits.
  • Engineering: Signal processing, structural analysis, and electrical engineering.
  • Architecture: Designing structures with specific angles and understanding stress distributions.
  • Navigation: Calculating distances and plotting courses using angles and bearings.
  • Computer Graphics: Modeling periodic movements and rotations in digital animations.
Understanding these functions enables students to model real-world phenomena and solve practical problems efficiently.

7. Advanced Topics: Inverse Trigonometric Functions

Inverse trigonometric functions, such as arcsine ($\sin^{-1}$), arccosine ($\cos^{-1}$), and arctangent ($\tan^{-1}$), allow the determination of angles from known trigonometric ratios. These functions are essential in solving equations where the angle is the unknown variable.
  • Definition: For $y = \sin^{-1}(x)$, $x = \sin(y)$ where $-\dfrac{\pi}{2} \leq y \leq \dfrac{\pi}{2}$.
  • Similar definitions apply for $\cos^{-1}(x)$ and $\tan^{-1}(x)$ with appropriate domains and ranges.
  • Applications: Solving triangles, physics problems involving angles of inclination, and engineering designs.
Mastery of inverse trigonometric functions enhances problem-solving capabilities in both pure and applied mathematics.

8. Real-World Problem Solving

Applying sine, cosine, and tangent functions to real-world problems reinforces understanding and demonstrates their practical utility. Consider the following example: Problem: A ladder is leaning against a wall, making an angle of $75^\circ$ with the ground. If the ladder is 10 meters long, how high up the wall does it reach?
  • Identify the relevant trigonometric function: cosine relates the adjacent side (height) to the hypotenuse (ladder).
  • Apply the cosine function:
    • $$\cos(75^\circ) = \dfrac{\text{Height}}{10}$$
  • Solve for Height:
    • $$\text{Height} = 10 \times \cos(75^\circ) \approx 10 \times 0.2588 = 2.588 \text{ meters}$$
This example illustrates how trigonometric functions facilitate the calculation of unknown quantities in practical scenarios.

9. Trigonometric Function Transformations

Transformations of trigonometric functions involve changes to the amplitude, period, phase shift, and vertical shift of their graphs. Understanding these transformations is essential for modeling complex periodic behaviors.
  • Amplitude ($A$): Vertical stretching or compressing. $$y = A \sin(\theta)$$
  • Period ($T$): Horizontal stretching or compressing. $$y = \sin(B\theta) \quad \text{where} \quad T = \dfrac{2\pi}{|B|}$$
  • Phase Shift ($C$): Horizontal shifting. $$y = \sin(\theta - C)$$
  • Vertical Shift ($D$): Moving the graph up or down. $$y = \sin(\theta) + D$$
Example: Graph the function $$y = 3\cos\left(2\theta - \dfrac{\pi}{3}\right) + 1$$.
  • Amplitude: 3 (stretched vertically).
  • Period: $\dfrac{2\pi}{2} = \pi$ radians (compressed horizontally).
  • Phase Shift: $\dfrac{\pi}{6}$ radians to the right.
  • Vertical Shift: Upward by 1 unit.
Understanding these transformations aids in creating accurate models of periodic phenomena.

10. Solving Triangles Using Trigonometric Functions

Trigonometric functions are instrumental in solving triangles, especially in determining unknown sides and angles. This is particularly useful in navigation, engineering, and physics.
  • Right-Angled Triangles: Utilize sine, cosine, and tangent ratios directly.
  • Oblique Triangles: Apply the Law of Sines and the Law of Cosines.
    • Law of Sines: $$\dfrac{\sin(A)}{a} = \dfrac{\sin(B)}{b} = \dfrac{\sin(C)}{c}$$
    • Law of Cosines: $$c^2 = a^2 + b^2 - 2ab\cos(C)$$
Example: Solve for side $c$ in a triangle where sides $a = 7$, $b = 10$, and angle $C = 45^\circ$.
  • Apply the Law of Cosines:
    • $$c^2 = 7^2 + 10^2 - 2 \times 7 \times 10 \times \cos(45^\circ)$$
  • Calculate:
    • $$c^2 = 49 + 100 - 140 \times 0.7071 \approx 149 - 98.994 = 50.006$$
  • Thus, $c \approx \sqrt{50.006} \approx 7.071$ units.

11. Periodicity and Symmetry of Trigonometric Functions

Trigonometric functions exhibit periodicity and symmetry, which are key to their behavior and applications.
  • Periodicity:
    • Sine and Cosine: Both have a period of $2\pi$ radians.
    • Tangent: Has a period of $\pi$ radians.
  • Symmetry:
    • Sine: Odd function, symmetric about the origin. $$\sin(-\theta) = -\sin(\theta)$$
    • Cosine: Even function, symmetric about the y-axis. $$\cos(-\theta) = \cos(\theta)$$
    • Tangent: Odd function, symmetric about the origin. $$\tan(-\theta) = -\tan(\theta)$$
Understanding these properties aids in graphing the functions and solving equations involving them.

12. Calculus of Trigonometric Functions

In the realm of calculus, sine, cosine, and tangent functions are integral to differentiation and integration:
  • Derivatives:
    • $$\dfrac{d}{d\theta} \sin(\theta) = \cos(\theta)$$
    • $$\dfrac{d}{d\theta} \cos(\theta) = -\sin(\theta)$$
    • $$\dfrac{d}{d\theta} \tan(\theta) = \sec^2(\theta)$$
  • Integrals:
    • $$\int \sin(\theta) \, d\theta = -\cos(\theta) + C$$
    • $$\int \cos(\theta) \, d\theta = \sin(\theta) + C$$
    • $$\int \tan(\theta) \, d\theta = -\ln|\cos(\theta)| + C$$
These concepts are fundamental in solving optimization problems, modeling dynamic systems, and performing analyses in various scientific fields.

13. Euler's Formula and Trigonometric Functions

Euler's Formula bridges trigonometric functions with exponential functions using complex numbers: $$e^{i\theta} = \cos(\theta) + i\sin(\theta)$$ This profound relationship facilitates the analysis of oscillatory systems, signal processing, and quantum mechanics. It also leads to Euler's Identity, considered one of the most beautiful equations in mathematics: $$e^{i\pi} + 1 = 0$$ Understanding Euler's Formula enhances the comprehension of the interconnectedness of different mathematical domains.

Comparison Table

Function Definition Period Range Key Characteristics
Sine ($\sin$) Ratio of Opposite Side to Hypotenuse in a right-angled triangle $2\pi$ radians [-1, 1] Starts at 0, odd function, smooth wave
Cosine ($\cos$) Ratio of Adjacent Side to Hypotenuse in a right-angled triangle $2\pi$ radians [-1, 1] Starts at 1, even function, smooth wave shifted left by $\pi/2$
Tangent ($\tan$) Ratio of Opposite Side to Adjacent Side in a right-angled triangle $\pi$ radians All real numbers Slope function, has vertical asymptotes, repeats every $\pi$ radians

Summary and Key Takeaways

  • Sine, cosine, and tangent functions are fundamental trigonometric ratios essential for understanding and solving geometric and real-world problems.
  • The unit circle provides a comprehensive framework for extending these functions beyond acute angles.
  • Graphing these functions reveals their periodic and symmetrical nature, crucial for modeling oscillatory phenomena.
  • Trigonometric identities and transformations enable the simplification and manipulation of complex equations.
  • Applications span various fields, including physics, engineering, navigation, and computer graphics, highlighting their practical significance.

Coming Soon!

coming soon
Examiner Tip
star

Tips

To excel in trigonometry, use the mnemonic SOH-CAH-TOA to remember the definitions of sine, cosine, and tangent: Sine = Opposite/Hypotenuse, Cosine = Adjacent/Hypotenuse, and Tangent = Opposite/Adjacent. Additionally, practice sketching unit circle graphs regularly to internalize the periodicity and symmetry of each function. When solving equations, always consider the function's period to find all possible solutions within the specified interval. Finally, leverage trigonometric identities to simplify complex expressions, making problem-solving more manageable during exams.

Did You Know
star

Did You Know

Trigonometric functions are not just abstract mathematical concepts—they have surprising real-world applications. For instance, sine and cosine waves are fundamental in music and sound engineering, shaping the tones we hear. Additionally, the ancient Greeks used trigonometry to build the pyramids, ensuring precise angles and stability. Another fascinating fact is that Euler's Formula, which connects trigonometric functions with exponential functions, is a cornerstone in electrical engineering and quantum physics, enabling the analysis of oscillating currents and wave functions.

Common Mistakes
star

Common Mistakes

Students often make errors when working with trigonometric functions. One common mistake is confusing the definitions of sine and cosine, leading to incorrect calculations of sides in a triangle. For example, mistakenly identifying the adjacent side as the opposite side when calculating $\sin(\theta)$ instead of $\cos(\theta)$. Another frequent error is misapplying trigonometric identities, such as incorrectly simplifying $\tan(\theta)$ as $\sin(\theta) \cdot \cos(\theta)$ instead of $\dfrac{\sin(\theta)}{\cos(\theta)}$. Lastly, forgetting to consider the periodic nature of these functions can result in overlooking additional valid solutions in equations.

FAQ

What is the difference between sine and cosine functions?
Sine and cosine are both fundamental trigonometric functions. Sine relates the opposite side to the hypotenuse in a right-angled triangle, while cosine relates the adjacent side to the hypotenuse. Graphically, the cosine function is a sine wave shifted $\pi/2$ radians to the left.
How do you determine the period of a tangent function?
The period of the tangent function is $\pi$ radians. This means the function repeats its values every $\pi$ radians, unlike sine and cosine, which have a period of $2\pi$ radians.
Can trigonometric functions be negative?
Yes, trigonometric functions can take on negative values depending on the angle's quadrant in the unit circle. For example, sine is negative in the third and fourth quadrants, while cosine is negative in the second and third quadrants.
What is Euler's Formula and its significance?
Euler's Formula states that $e^{i\theta} = \cos(\theta) + i\sin(\theta)$. It beautifully connects exponential functions with trigonometric functions and is fundamental in fields like electrical engineering and quantum mechanics.
How do inverse trigonometric functions work?
Inverse trigonometric functions, such as $\sin^{-1}(x)$, $\cos^{-1}(x)$, and $\tan^{-1}(x)$, allow you to determine the angle that corresponds to a given trigonometric ratio. They are essential for solving equations where the angle is the unknown.
1. Statistics and Probability
2. Geometry and Trigonometry
3. Number and Algebra
4. Calculus
5. Functions
6. Experimental Investigation (Internal Assessment)
Download PDF
Get PDF
Download PDF
PDF
Share
Share
Explore
Explore