Mastering Trigonometry | Understanding and Applying the SOHCAHTOA Principle in Right Triangles

SOHCAHTOA

SOHCAHTOA is a mnemonic device used in trigonometry to remember the relationships between the sides and angles in a right triangle

SOHCAHTOA is a mnemonic device used in trigonometry to remember the relationships between the sides and angles in a right triangle. Each letter represents a trigonometric function:

– Sine (sin): The sine of an angle is equal to the ratio of the length of the side opposite the angle to the length of the hypotenuse. It is represented by sin(theta).

– Cosine (cos): The cosine of an angle is equal to the ratio of the length of the adjacent side to the length of the hypotenuse. It is represented by cos(theta).

– Tangent (tan): The tangent of an angle is equal to the ratio of the length of the side opposite the angle to the length of the adjacent side. It is represented by tan(theta).

To use SOHCAHTOA, you need to identify the relationship you want to find (sin, cos, or tan), and then use the corresponding formula to find the ratio of the sides. Remember that these functions only apply to right triangles.

For example, if you want to find the sine of an angle, you would use the formula sin(theta) = opposite/hypotenuse. Similarly, if you want to find the cosine of an angle, you would use the formula cos(theta) = adjacent/hypotenuse. And if you want to find the tangent of an angle, you would use the formula tan(theta) = opposite/adjacent.

SOHCAHTOA serves as a useful tool to remember these formulas and apply them in trigonometric calculations involving right triangles.

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