Use a calculator to approximate the value of each expression. Give answers to six decimal places. tan 11.7689°

Key Concepts

Tangent Function

The tangent function, denoted as tan(θ), is a fundamental trigonometric function defined as the ratio of the opposite side to the adjacent side in a right triangle. It can also be expressed in terms of sine and cosine as tan(θ) = sin(θ) / cos(θ). Understanding this function is crucial for solving problems involving angles and their corresponding ratios.

Calculator Functions

Using a scientific calculator effectively is essential for computing trigonometric values. Most calculators have dedicated buttons for sine, cosine, and tangent functions, and it's important to ensure that the calculator is set to the correct mode (degrees or radians) based on the angle provided. This ensures accurate results when approximating values.

Rounding and Precision

Rounding is the process of adjusting a number to a specified degree of accuracy. In this context, providing answers to six decimal places means that the result should be rounded to the nearest millionth. Understanding how to round numbers correctly is important for presenting precise answers in mathematical calculations.