If θ is an acute angle and cos θ = 1/3, find csc (𝜋/2 - θ).
Table of contents
- 0. Review of College Algebra4h 45m
- 1. Measuring Angles40m
- 2. Trigonometric Functions on Right Triangles2h 5m
- 3. Unit Circle1h 19m
- 4. Graphing Trigonometric Functions1h 19m
- 5. Inverse Trigonometric Functions and Basic Trigonometric Equations1h 41m
- 6. Trigonometric Identities and More Equations2h 34m
- 7. Non-Right Triangles1h 38m
- 8. Vectors2h 25m
- 9. Polar Equations2h 5m
- 10. Parametric Equations1h 6m
- 11. Graphing Complex Numbers1h 7m
2. Trigonometric Functions on Right Triangles
Trigonometric Functions on Right Triangles
Problem 82
Textbook Question
Give all six trigonometric function values for each angle θ. Rationalize denominators when applicable. See Examples 5–7.
csc θ = ―3 , and cos θ > 0
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the given information: \( \csc \theta = -3 \) and \( \cos \theta > 0 \). Recall that \( \csc \theta = \frac{1}{\sin \theta} \), so use this to find \( \sin \theta \).
Calculate \( \sin \theta \) by taking the reciprocal of \( \csc \theta \): \( \sin \theta = \frac{1}{\csc \theta} = \frac{1}{-3} = -\frac{1}{3} \).
Determine the quadrant of \( \theta \) using the signs of \( \sin \theta \) and \( \cos \theta \). Since \( \sin \theta < 0 \) and \( \cos \theta > 0 \), \( \theta \) lies in the fourth quadrant.
Use the Pythagorean identity \( \sin^2 \theta + \cos^2 \theta = 1 \) to find \( \cos \theta \). Substitute \( \sin \theta = -\frac{1}{3} \) and solve for \( \cos \theta \), choosing the positive root because \( \cos \theta > 0 \).
Find the remaining trigonometric functions using the definitions: \( \tan \theta = \frac{\sin \theta}{\cos \theta} \), \( \cot \theta = \frac{1}{\tan \theta} \), \( \sec \theta = \frac{1}{\cos \theta} \), and rationalize denominators where necessary.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Reciprocal Trigonometric Functions
The six trigonometric functions include sine, cosine, tangent, cosecant, secant, and cotangent. Cosecant (csc θ) is the reciprocal of sine (sin θ), so if csc θ = -3, then sin θ = -1/3. Understanding these reciprocal relationships is essential to find all function values.
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Introduction to Trigonometric Functions
Sign of Trigonometric Functions in Quadrants
The sign of trigonometric functions depends on the quadrant where the angle θ lies. Given csc θ = -3 (sin θ negative) and cos θ > 0 (cosine positive), θ must be in the fourth quadrant. Knowing quadrant signs helps determine the correct values and signs of all functions.
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Quadratic Formula
Pythagorean Identity and Rationalizing Denominators
The Pythagorean identity sin²θ + cos²θ = 1 allows calculation of unknown function values once one is known. After finding cos θ, tangent and other functions can be derived. Rationalizing denominators ensures answers are in simplified, standard form, improving clarity and precision.
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Rationalizing Denominators
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