The Six Trigonometric Functions

and Reciprocals Functions

Topic Index | Algebra2/Trig Index | Regents Exam Prep Center

In a right triangle, there are actually six possible trigonometric ratios, or functions.
A Greek letter (such as theta or phi
) will now be used to represent the angle.

Notice that the three new ratios at the right are reciprocals of the ratios on the left.
Applying a little algebra shows the connection between these functions.

Reciprocal Functions

Also Important

Examples:
1. Given the triangle at the right, express the exact
value of the six trig functions in relation to theta.
Solution: Find the missing side of the right triangle using the Pythagorean Theorem.
Then, using the diagram, express each function as a ratio of the lengths of the sides.
Do not "estimate" the answers.

Be careful not to jump to the

conclusion that this is a 3-4-5 right
triangle. The 4 in on the
hypotenuse and must be the largest
side.

The following examples pertain to a right triangle in Quadrant I:

2. Given

, find

Solution: This is an easy problem, since cosine and secant are reciprocal functions.

3. Find

and

, given

and

Solution: Draw a diagram to get a better understanding of the given information.

Since sine is opposite over hypotenuse, position the 2 and the 3

accordingly in relation to the angle theta. Now, since cosine is
adjacent over hypotenuse, position these values (the 3 should
already be properly placed). Be sure that the largest value is on the
hypotenuse and that the Pythagorean Theorem is true for these
values. (If you are not given the third side, use the Pythagorean
Theorem to find it.)
Now, using your diagram, read off the values for the secant and the cotangent.
Secant:

Cotangent:

Check out how to use your TI83+/84+ graphing calculator

with reciprocal functions.
Click here.

Topic Index | Algebra2/Trig Index | Regents Exam Prep Center

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