SECONDARY SCHOOL

IMPROVEMENT
PROGRAMME (SSIP) 2024

MATHEMATICS:
Grade 11
Term 1

Learner Guide

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© Gauteng Department of Education

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Session 1 : Algebra: Exponents and Surds 03

Session 2 : Algebra: Equations and Inequalities 09

Session 3 : Algebra: Nature of the roots 14

Session 4 : Trigonometry: Definitions, Special Angles 20

and Reduction formulae and Identities

Session 5 : Trigonometry: General Solutions 36

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© Gauteng Department of Education

SESSION 01: ALGEBRA: EXPONENTS AND SURDS
p

Laws of exponents for Rational exponents where: x = x p ; x  0; q  0

q q

NUMBER SYSTEM

Rational number
A Rational Number is a number that can be expressed as the quotient or fraction of two
integers, where the denominator is not zero.

a
In other words, any number that can be written in the form , where a and b are integers
b
and b is not zero, is considered a Rational Number( )
Rational numbers include integers, fractions, and terminating or repeating decimals.
3 7 5
Examples of rational numbers include , − , 0, , and 1.5 (which can be expressed as
4 2 1
3
.
2

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© Gauteng Department of Education

 LAWS and DEFINITIONS APPLICATION or EXAMPLES
𝒎 𝒏 𝒎+𝒏
𝒂 ×𝒂 =𝒂 ➢ 𝑎2 . 𝑎7 . 𝑎5 = 𝑎2 + 7 + 5 = 𝑎14

➢ (63 )(6−8 ) = 63 +(−8) = 6−5

𝒎 𝑥 19
𝒂 ➢ = 𝑥19 −6 = 𝑥13
= 𝒂𝒎−𝒏 𝑥6
𝒂𝒏
➢ 57 ÷ 5−11 = 57−(−11) = 518
(𝒂𝒎 )𝒏 = 𝒂𝒎 × 𝒏 ➢ (𝑥 3 )5 = 𝑥 3 ×5 = 𝑥15

➢ (73 )𝑎 = 73 × 𝑎 = 73𝑎
(𝒂𝒃)𝒎 𝒎
= 𝒂 . 𝒃 𝒎
➢ (6)𝑥 = (2 . 3)𝑥 = 2𝑥 . 3𝑥

2 𝑐 2𝑐
➢ (3) = 3𝑐

𝒂𝟎 = 𝟏 ➢ 𝑘 . 𝑚0 = 𝑘 . 1 = 𝑘

➢ (𝑘 . 𝑚)0 = 1
𝒏
𝒂 = 𝒂 . 𝒂 . 𝒂 … 𝐭𝐨 𝐧 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡 ➢ 𝑎3 = 𝑎 . 𝑎 . 𝑎
𝒂𝟏 = 𝒂 ➢ 43 = 4 . 4 . 4 = 64
𝟏𝒏 = 𝟏 ; 𝒏 ∈ ℝ ➢ 12024 = 1
𝟏 1
𝒂−𝒏 = 𝒏 ➢ 3−1 = 3
𝒂
2 2
𝒌 ➢ 2 . 3−2 = =9
32
𝒌𝒂−𝒏 = 𝒏
𝒂
−3 3
𝒂 −𝒏 𝒃 𝒏 ➢ (
2
) =(
3
)
( ) =( ) 3 2
𝒃 𝒂

𝒏 𝒎⁄ 1⁄
√𝒂𝒎 = 𝒂 𝒏 ➢ √𝑝 = 𝑝 2
2⁄
3 −2 1 3
𝒎
√𝒂𝒎 =
𝒎
𝒂 ⁄𝒎 =𝒂 ➢ √𝑥 −2 = 𝑥 ⁄3 = (𝑥)

Tips:
✓ To apply the laws, the base numbers or variables must be the same.
✓ If the bases are different, make use of prime factors or manipulate the exponents to be
the same.
✓ For a one-term expression or numerator or denominator (i.e. the one without +/– in
between terms):
☺☺ Make the bases the same,
 Apply the laws.
✓ For expressions with more than one term (i.e. the ones with +/– in between terms)
 Factorise: check common factor, trinomial, difference of two squares, sum or
difference of cubes, and grouping.
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Surds:
✓ Surds are irrational numbers that are expressed as the root of an integer. These
numbers do not have an exact value and are better written in nth-root format such as
3 4
square roots, cube roots, fourth roots etc. e.g. √3 ; √7 ; √50 .
✓ Surd laws:
𝑛 𝑛 𝑛
❖ √𝑎 . √𝑏 = √𝑎𝑏 where 𝑎 > 0 ; 𝑏 > 0 and 𝑛 ≥ 2 .
𝑛
√𝑎 𝑛 𝑎
❖ 𝑛 = √𝑏 where 𝑎 > 0 ; 𝑏 > 0 and 𝑛 ≥ 2
√𝑏
𝑛 𝑛 𝑛 𝑛 𝑛
❖ √𝑘 . √𝑘 . √𝑘 … to 𝑛𝑡ℎ factor is equal to 𝑘 . Simply put, ( √𝑘 ) = 𝑘 .
3 3 3
e.g. √5 . √5 = 5 and √7 . √7 . √7 = 7 .

Worked examples:
Example 1: Exponents
Simplify:
25−𝑦 . 15𝑦+1
3𝑦 . 5−𝑦
Solution to Example 1 Method applied

(52 )−𝑦 . (3 . 5)𝑦+1 express the numerical bases as prime bases

=
3𝑦 . 5−𝑦

5−2𝑦 . 3𝑦+1 . 5𝑦+1 use exponential laws (𝑎𝑚 )𝑛 = 𝑎𝑚 × 𝑛

= and (𝑎𝑏)𝑚 = 𝑎𝑚 . 𝑏 𝑚
3𝑦 . 5−𝑦

= 5−2𝑦+𝑦+1+𝑦 . 3𝑦+1−𝑦 use exponential laws 𝑎𝑚 × 𝑎𝑛 = 𝑎𝑚+𝑛

𝑎𝑚
and = 𝑎𝑚−𝑛
𝑎𝑛

= 51 . 31 add the like terms

= 15 apply definition 𝑎𝟏 = 𝑎 and multiply

Example 2: Exponents
Simplify:
3𝑥 . 2𝑥−1 − 6𝑥
3 . 6𝑥−1

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 Solution to Example 2 Method applied

3𝑥 . 2𝑥 . 2−1 − 6𝑥 use the exponential law 𝑎𝑚+𝑛 = 𝑎𝑚 . 𝑎𝑛 to

= break down the powers with compound
3 . 6𝑥 . 6−1
exponents
1
(3 . 2)𝑥 . − 6𝑥 use exponential law 𝑎𝑚 . 𝑏 𝑚 = (𝑎𝑏)𝑚
= 2 and definition 𝑎−𝑛 = 𝑎𝑛
1
1
3 . 6𝑥 . 6

1 simplify by multiplication
6𝑥 . 2 − 6𝑥
=
1
6𝑥 . 2

1 factorise by taking out a common factor

6𝑥 ( − 1)
= 2
1
6𝑥 . 2

1 simplify by division
−2
=
1
2

= −1

Example 3: Exponents
Simplify:
52025 + 3 . 52023
3 . 52022 + 52024
Solution to Example 3 Method applied

52022+3 + 3 . 52022+1 create common powers by rewriting numeric

= exponents with a common value.
3 . 52022 + 52022+2

52022 . 53 + 3 . 52022 . 5 use the exponential law 𝑎𝑚+𝑛 = 𝑎𝑚 . 𝑎𝑛 to

= break down the powers with compound
3 . 52022 + 52022 . 52
exponents
52022 (125 + 15)
= factorise by taking out a common factor
52022 (3 + 25)
140 simplify by division
=
28
=5

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© Gauteng Department of Education

Example 4: Surds
5−√𝑥 7+√𝑥
If 𝑝 = and 𝑞 = , determine the value of (𝑝 + 𝑞)2 without using a calculator.
√3 √3

Solution to Example 4 Method applied

5−√𝑥 7+√𝑥
Given: 𝑝 = and 𝑞 =
√3 √3

2
5 − √𝑥 7 + √𝑥
(𝑝 + 𝑞)2 = ( + ) substitute the given expressions of p and q.
√3 √3
2
5 − √𝑥 + 7 + √𝑥
=( ) simplify by using the LCD
√3
2
12
=( ) add like terms together
√3
144 𝑏 𝑛 𝑏𝑛
= apply exponential law (𝑎) = and
𝑎𝑛
3 𝑛 𝑛
surd law ( √𝑘) = 𝑘
= 48

Activities:
QUESTION 1:
Simplify the following without using a calculator:
6𝑛+1 . 9𝑛+1
1.1
18𝑛 . 3𝑛+3

7 . 3𝑥+2
1.2
3𝑥+4 − 6 . 3𝑥+1

4𝑥 − 9
1.3
2𝑥 + 3

QUESTION 2:
Prove the following without using a calculator.
𝑛 4 6 12
2.1 ( √5𝑛 )(√250)( √160)( √640)( √10) = 1000

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© Gauteng Department of Education

Homework Activities:
QUESTION 1:
Simplify the following without using a calculator
9𝑥 . 3
1.1
16𝑥−3 . 64 −𝑥+1 .62𝑥

3𝑥+1 − 3 . 2𝑥
1.2
9 . 4 𝑥 − 9𝑥+1

𝟐
√𝟕2𝟎21 − √𝟕𝟐𝟎1𝟗
1.3 ( + √𝟕)
√𝟕𝟐𝟎18

1.4 (√3 − √2 )(√12 + √8)

QUESTION 2
2.1 Show that 5. 2𝑥+3 + 7. 3𝑦+2 is odd for all positive integer values of 𝑥 and 𝑦.
2.2 Prove, without using a calculator, that:
√2 4𝑥 0
+ = √2 + 2
1 + √2 √2

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SESSION 02: ALGEBRA: EQUATIONS AND INEQUALITIES

Topic Overview and Tips:

➢ There are mainly three types of equations: Linear (used in simultaneous equations),
Quadratic and Exponential.
➢ To solve quadratic equations:
✓ Write the equation in standard form, 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0.
−𝑏±√𝑏 2 −4𝑎𝑐
✓ Then factorise or use quadratic formula, 𝑥 = .
2𝑎
✓ Determine each root (𝑥-value) by equating each factor to zero or use a calculator if
you prefer the quadratic formula.
✓ Test the validity 𝑥-values by substituting in the original equation or using
restrictions. Especially for equations involving fractions or surds.
➢ To solve surd equations, firstly isolate the term with the surd, square both sides, simplify
and follow the tips/ steps above. Remember: √𝑥 ≠ negative value, but −√𝑥 = negative
value.
➢ To solve exponential equations, remember the rules below:
1. If 2𝑎 = 2𝑏 , then 𝑎 = 𝑏 . Therefore, the strategy is to have one power with the same
numerical bases on either side of the equation.
2. If 𝑝3 = 𝑞 3 , then 𝑝 = 𝑞 . Hence, the idea is to ensure that exponents are the same on
either side of the equation. NB: 2𝑎 = 3𝑏 implies that 𝑎 = 0 and 𝑏 = 0.
Also 𝑝5 = 𝑞 3 implies that 𝑝 = 1 and 𝑞 = 1.
➢ Simultaneous equations will usually be a set of two equations, linear and quadratic,
containing two variables. To solve simultaneous equations:
✓ Label the equations as (1) and (2).
✓ Start with the linear equation and write one of the variables as the subject of the
formula. Name this equation as (3)
✓ Substitute in the quadratic equation, simplify and solve according to tips on solving
quadratic equations above.
✓ Substitute the values/ roots obtained in equation named as (3) to obtain the values of
the other variable.
➢ Inequalities are different from equations since the inequality sign < or > or ≤ or ≥
sign is used instead of the equal sign =. To solve the quadratic inequalities:
✓ Write in standard form 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 < 0 or 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 > 0 or
𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 ≤ 0 or 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 ≥ 0 .
✓ Factorise and write down the critical values which are obtained by equating each
factor to zero.
✓ Use number line or graph to determine the solution.
✓ Write down the solution in inequality form or interval notation.

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Example 1: Quadratic Equations
Solve for 𝑥 .
2𝑥 2 = 7𝑥
Solution to Example 1 Method applied

2𝑥 2 − 7𝑥 = 0 write in standard form by adding −7𝑥 on

either side
𝑥(2𝑥 − 7) = 0 factorise
𝑥 = 0 or (2𝑥 − 7) = 0 equate each factor to zero
7 write down the roots
𝑥 = 0 or 𝑥 = 2

Example 2: Quadratic Equations

Solve for 𝑥 .
11 = 3𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 (Correct to TWO decimal places).
Solution to Example 2 Method applied

3𝑥 2 − 5𝑥 − 11 = 0 write in standard form by adding −11 on

either side
−𝑏 ± √𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 use quadratic formula since the instruction
𝑥= clearly indicates ‘TWO decimal places’.
2𝑎
−(−5)±√(−5)2 −4(3)(−11) substitute 𝑎 = 3 ; 𝑏 = −5 ; 𝑐 = −11 into
𝑥= 2(3) the formula
𝑥 = −1,25 or 𝑥 = 2,92 use a calculator to determine the roots

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Example 3: Quadratic Equations (Surds)
Solve for 𝑥 .

−2√𝑥 + 2 − 𝑥 = −1
Solution to Example 3 Method applied

isolate the surd by adding 𝑥 either side.

−2√𝑥 + 2 = 𝑥 − 1 Restriction: 𝑥 − 1 ≤ 0. ∴𝑥≤1
2 square both sides to ‘remove’ the square root
(−2√𝑥 + 2) = (𝑥 − 1)2
sign.
4(𝑥 + 2) = 𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 + 1 simplify by expansion and multiplication.
Remember laws of exponents and distributive
law.
4𝑥 + 8 = 𝑥 2 − 2𝑥 + 1
0 = 𝑥 2 − 6𝑥 − 7 write in standard form.
0 = (𝑥 + 1)(𝑥 − 7) factorise or use quadratic formula
𝑥 = −1 or 𝑥 ≠ 7 equate each factor to zero to obtain the roots.
Use the restriction above to check which root
is correct and reject the one that is not
applicable. Alternatively, substitute each value
in the original equation.

Example 4: Quadratic Inequalities

Solve for 𝑥 .
(2 − 𝑥)(2𝑥 + 3) > 𝑥 − 2
Solution to Example 4 Method applied
(2 − 𝑥)(2𝑥 + 3) + 2 − 𝑥 > 0 add 2 and −𝑥 on either side of the inequality
to create a common factor of 2 − 𝑥

(2 − 𝑥)(2𝑥 + 3 + 1) > 0 factorise by common factor method.

(2 − 𝑥)(2𝑥 + 4) > 0 add like terms

Critical Values: 𝑥 = −2 or 𝑥 = 2 equate each factor to zero to determine critical

values

−2 2 𝑥
−2 < 𝑥 < 2 use the graph or number line to obtain the
correct solution

ALTERNATIVE SOLUTION to example can be found by first multiplying out the

product of factors on the left side of the inequality. ☺ ☺

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Example 5: Simultaneous Equations (with exponents)
Solve for 𝑥 and 𝑦.
9𝑦
= 27 and 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 − 15 = −5𝑥𝑦
3𝑥

Solution to Example 5 Method applied

9𝑦 label the equations for convenience
= 27 … (1)
3𝑥
2 2
𝑥 + 𝑦 − 15 = −5𝑥𝑦 … (2)
From (1):
32𝑦 create powers with same prime bases
= 33
3𝑥
2𝑦 − 𝑥 = 3 apply laws of exponents to create a linear
equation
𝑥 = 2𝑦 − 3 … (3) write x as the subject of the formula

(2𝑦 − 3)2 + 𝑦 2 − 15 = −5(2𝑦 − 3)𝑦 Substitute (3) into (2):

4𝑦 2 − 12𝑦 + 9 + 𝑦 2 − 15 = −10𝑦 2 + 15𝑦 expand and simplify

15𝑦 2 − 27𝑦 − 6 = 0 write in standard form

5𝑦 2 − 9𝑦 − 2 = 0 simplify by dividing each term by 3

(5𝑦 + 1)(𝑦 − 2) = 0 factorise

1 write down the y values
𝑦 = − 5 or 𝑦 = 2

1
𝑥 = 2 (− 5 ) − 3 or 𝑥 = 2(2 ) − 3 substitute y values in equation (3)

17
𝑥=− or 𝑥 = 1 simplify
5

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© Gauteng Department of Education

Activities:
QUESTION 1:
Solve for 𝑥 .
1.1 (5 − 𝑥)𝑥 = 0

1.2 (5 − 𝑥)𝑥 = 4
1.3 6𝑥 2 − 𝑥 = 4𝑥 + 3 (correct to TWO decimal places)
1.4 𝑥 − 1 = 2 + √𝑥 − 1
1.5 √7 − 𝑥 = 2
1.6 √7 − 𝑥 = −2
1.7 0 ≥ (𝑥 − 4)(𝑥 + 7)

QUESTION 2:
Solve for 𝑥 and 𝑦
81𝑥 − 9𝑦+1 = 0 and 3𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2 − 4𝑥𝑦 = 0

Homework Activities:
QUESTION 1:
Solve for 𝑥 .
1.1 (3𝑥 − 4)(2𝑥 − 1) = 0
1.2 (3𝑥 − 4)(2𝑥 − 1) = 4
1.3 7𝑥(𝑥 + 3) = 2 (correct to ONE decimal place)
1.4 32𝑥 = 8 . 3𝑥+1 + 81
1.5 𝑥 2 − 𝑥 − 21 ≥ 21

QUESTION 2
Solve for 𝑥 and 𝑦
2𝑥 − 𝑦 = 3 and 𝑥 2 + 5𝑥𝑦 + 𝑦 2 = 15

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© Gauteng Department of Education

SESSION 03: ALGEBRA: NATURE OF THE ROOTS

Topic Overview and Tips:

➢ Nature of the roots of a quadratic equation is determined by using the discriminant,
∆= 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐
➢ Ensure that the quadratic equation is in standard form, 𝑎𝑥 2 + 𝑏𝑥 + 𝑐 = 0.
➢ The table below summarises important aspects to consider:

∆ (Delta/ Roots are … Graphical presentation

Discriminant)
Real
Equal Graph touches x-axis once.
∆=0 (ONE x-intercept)
Rational

Real
∆ = perfect Unequal
square Rational Graph passes through the
x-axis TWICE.
∆>0 (TWO x-intercepts)
Real
∆ ≠ perfect Unequal
square Irrational

Graph DOES NOT touch the

x-axis. (NO x-intercept)
∆<0 Non-Real

IMPORTANT TO NOTE: Nature of the roots is not limited to parabolic graphs only. Other
graphs such as hyperbola, exponential etc may be used to illustrate or determine the roots.

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Example 1: Nature of the roots
Determine the nature of the roots of −3𝑥 2 = 5𝑥 + 2
Solution to Example 1 Method applied

0 = 3𝑥 2 + 5𝑥 + 2 write in standard form by adding 3𝑥 2 on

either side
∆= 𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 use discriminant formula

∆= (5)2 − 4(3)(2) substitute 𝑎 = 3 ; 𝑏 = 5 ; 𝑐 = 2 into the

formula
∆= 1 use a calculator to determine the discriminant
∴ the roots are real, rational and unequal ∆> 0 and perfect square

Example 2: Nature of the roots

Determine the value of 𝑘 such that the equation 3𝑥 2 − 4𝑥 + 𝑘 − 3 = 0 will have equal
roots.
Solution to Example 2 Method applied

For equal roots: This based on the information given. Also the
∆= 0 equation is already in standard form.

𝑏 2 − 4𝑎𝑐 = 0 use formula for discriminant.

(−4)2 − 4(3)(𝑘 − 3) = 0 substitute 𝑎 = 3 ; 𝑏 = −4 ; 𝑐 = 𝑘 − 3 into

the formula

16 − 12𝑘 + 36 = 0 simplify

52
𝑘=
12
13
𝑘=
3

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Example 3: Nature of the roots

Solution to Example 3 Method applied

(a) Turning point of the graph: The line 𝑦 = 𝑘 (horizontal) must intersect the
−5 + 3 graph once. That will be at the turning point.
𝑥=
2 Critical points such as turning points and
= −1 intercepts with the axes are necessary.
𝑦 = −(−1)2 − 2(−1) + 15 For equal roots: 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝑘 must have one
𝑦 = 16 solution. This is exactly at turning point and
TP (−1; 16) 𝑦 = 16 at that point.
∴ 𝑘 = 16

(b) 𝑘 ≤ 16 Real roots imply that the horizontal line 𝑦 = 𝑘

must intersect the graph of 𝑓. This occurs at
and below the turning point

(c) 𝑘 > 16 Non-Real roots imply that the horizontal line

𝑦 = 𝑘 will not intersect with the graph of 𝑓.
This occurs above the turning point
(d) 𝑘 = 15 This is exactly at the 𝑦-intercept.

(e) 15 < 𝑘 < 16 For two negative roots (𝑥-values), the section
of the graph has to be found in the negative 𝑥-
axis. This section exists between 𝑦 = 15 and
𝑦 = 16 .

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Activities:
QUESTION 1:
Determine the nature of the roots of each of the following equations:
1.1 7𝑥 2 + 3(𝑥 − 3) = 0
1.2 3(𝑥 − 1)2 + 3 = 0
6
1.3 5𝑥 + 7 = 𝑥−1 ; 𝑥 ≠ 1

QUESTION 2:
2.1 Prove that the roots of the equation 𝑘𝑥(𝑥 − 4) + 4𝑘 = 0 are equal for all real values
of 𝑘.
2.2 For which values of 𝑚 will the equation 𝑥 2 + 𝑥 + 2 = 9𝑥 − 𝑚 have non-real
roots?

Homework Activities:
QUESTION 1:
Discuss the nature of the roots of each of the following equations:
1.1 5 = −(2𝑥 + 5)(𝑥 − 2)

2 7
1.2 = 𝑥2 − 4
𝑥−1

1.3 𝑥(𝑥 − 3𝑝) = −5𝑝𝑥 2 for 𝑝 ≠ 0.

QUESTION 2:

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CONSOLIDATION ACTIVITIES ON ALGEBRA

QUSTION 1
1.1 Solve for x in each of the following:

1.1.1 (2x − 1)(x + 4) = 0 (2)

1.1.2 3x 2 − x = 5 (Leave your answer correct to TWO decimal places.) (4)

1.1.3 x2 + 7x − 8  0 (4)
1.2 Given: 4 y − x = 4 and xy = 8

1.2.1 Solve for x and y simultaneously. (6)

− 2  2p + 5
1.3 The solutions of a quadratic equation are given by x =
7
For which value(s) of p will this equation have:
1.3.1 Two equal solutions (2)
1.3.2 No real solutions (1)
[19]

QUESTION 2
2.1 Solve for x, rounded off to TWO decimal places where necessary:

2.1.1 x2 = 5x − 4 (3)
2.1.2 x(3 − x) = −3 (5)

3 − x  2x2 (5)
2.1.3

2.1.4 x = 8− x + 2
(5)
2.2 Determine the values of x and y if they satisfy both the following equations
simultaneously:
2x + y = 3
x2 + y + x = y 2 (8)

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2.3 Solve for x:
1
2.3.1 3x + =4 (4)
x
2.3.2 5 x( x − 3) = 2 (5)

1.3.3 x2 − 2x  3 (4)

2.4 Solve simultaneously for x and y:

x − 3y = 1

x 2 − 2 xy + 9 y 2 = 17 (7)
2.5 Solve for x:

2.5.1 x(x − 1) = 30 (3)

2.5.2 3x 2 − 5 x + 1 = 0 (Correct to ONE decimal place) (4)

2.5.3 15 x − 4  9 x 2 (4)

2.6 Solve simultaneously for x and y in the following set of equations:

x− y =3 (5)
x − xy − 2 y − 7 = 0
2 2

2.7 Solve for x:

2.7.1 ( x − 3)( x + 5) = 9 (4)
2.7.2 2 x 2 − 2  3x (4)
2.8 Solve simultaneously for x and y:

2 + y = −2 x
− 2 x 2 + 8 xy + 42 = y (7)

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© Gauteng Department of Education

SESSION 4: TRIGONOMETRY
The branch of mathematics
Part A TRIGONOMETRY concerned with specific
functions of angles and their
application to calculations.

1. Theorem of Pythagoras

a. Right Angled triangles

2. Trigonometric Ratios
a. Right angled triangles
b. Ratios of sides of right-angled triangles

3. Fundamental Identities

4. Special Angles

5. Reduction Formulae (CAST diagram)

6. Determine for which values of a variable an identity holds

7. Determine the general solutions of trigonometric equations. Also determine solutions

in specific intervals.

2 Trigonometric Ratios 1. Theorem of

(SOH CAH TOA) Pythagoras

3 Trigonometric
Identities

4 Special Angles Trigonometry

Part A 8

5 Reduction
Formulae 6 Trigonometric 7
Equations

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© Gauteng Department of Education

1. Theorem of Pythagoras
Explains the
relationship between
the three sides of a
right-angled triangle.

Examples: Calculate the unknown side in the following right angled triangles

? 10 cm 20 cm
4cm ? 16 cm

3 cm 6 cm ?
𝑐 2 = 𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 𝑎2 = 𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑏 2 = 𝑐 2 −𝑎2
𝑐 = √𝑎2 + 𝑏 2 𝑎 = √𝑐 2 − 𝑏 2 𝑏 = √𝑐 2 − 𝑎2
= √(4)2 + (3)2 = √(10)2 − (6)2 = √(20)2 + (16)2
=5 cm = 8 cm = 12 cm

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© Gauteng Department of Education

Activities:
Calculate the missing side in the following right angled triangles
1 1

?
5 cm

3 cm
2 2

11 cm
?

7 cm
3
3

27 cm
13 cm

4 4

12,5 cm

?
5,5 cm

5 5

10,12 m
?

18,21 m

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© Gauteng Department of Education

 6

159

121

2. Trigonometric Ratios

Side opposite to a
90◦ angle

Ratios of sides/ lengths

of a right angled
triangle

𝑂𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 In a right angled triangle ABC; sin of an angle ( 𝜃)equals to the
sin(𝜃) =
𝐻𝑦𝑝𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑢𝑒𝑠 𝑆𝑖𝑑𝑒 opposite side to the angle ( 𝜃) over/ divided by the hypotenuse

𝐴𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 In a right angled triangle ABC; cos of an angle ( 𝜃)equals to the
cos(𝜃) =
𝐻𝑦𝑝𝑜𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑢𝑒𝑠 𝑆𝑖𝑑𝑒 adjacent side to the angle ( 𝜃) over/ divided by the hypotenuse

𝑂𝑝𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 In a right angled triangle ABC; tan of an angle ( 𝜃)equals to the
tan(𝜃) =
𝐴𝑑𝑗𝑎𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 opposite side to the angle ( 𝜃) over/ divided by the adjacent side
to the angle (𝜃).

NB!! Mnemonic: SOH CAH TOA must always be said

correctly as the above definitions

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© Gauteng Department of Education

 2.1 Cartesian Plane
sine ALL
• The Cartesian plane is divided into
FOUR quadrants.
R(-x ; y)

sin 𝜃, cos 𝜃 𝑎𝑛𝑑 tan 𝜃 Only sin 𝜃 is positive

in the second quadrant
Are all positive in
𝑦
the first quadrant sin 𝜃 = 𝑟 = sin 𝜃
𝑦
sin 𝜃 = 𝑟 cos 𝜃 =
−𝑥
= − cos 𝜃
𝑟 tan
cos 𝜃
𝑥
=𝑟 tan 𝜃
𝑦
= −𝑥 = − tan 𝜃 cos
𝑦
tan 𝜃 = 𝑥 cos 𝜃 𝑎𝑛𝑑 tan 𝜃 are R(-x ; -y) R(x ; -y)
negative

Only tan 𝜃 is positive in Only cos 𝜃 is positive in the

the third quadrant fourth quadrant
−𝑦 −𝑦
sin 𝜃 = 𝑟
= − sin 𝜃 sin 𝜃 = 𝑟
= − sin 𝜃
−𝑥 𝑥
cos 𝜃 = 𝑟
= − cos 𝜃 cos 𝜃 = 𝑟 = cos 𝜃
−𝑦 𝑦 −𝑦
tan 𝜃 = −𝑥 = 𝑥 = tan 𝜃 tan 𝜃 = 𝑥
= −tan 𝜃

sin 𝜃 𝑎𝑛𝑑 cos 𝜃 are sin 𝜃 𝑎𝑛𝑑 tan 𝜃 are negative

negative

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© Gauteng Department of Education

3. Trigonometric Identities
1. 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝟐 𝜽 + 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝟐 𝜽 = 𝟏

𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜽
2. 𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝜽 = 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜽

Proofs:

1. 𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝜃 + 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝜃
𝑦 2 𝑥 2
= ( 𝑟 ) + (𝑟 )
𝑦 2 +𝑥 2
= Pythagoras theorem: 𝑟 2 = 𝑥 2 + 𝑦 2
𝑟2
𝑟2
= 𝑟2
=1
sin 𝜃 𝑦 𝑥
2. = ( 𝑟 ) ÷ (𝑟 )
cos 𝜃
𝑦 𝑟
= ( 𝑟 ) × (𝑥)
𝑦
=𝑥
= tan 𝜃

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© Gauteng Department of Education

Examples of calculations involving Pythagoras theorem and angles in the Cartesian
plane

• Positive direction is the anticlockwise direction.

• Angles are calculated from a horizontal 0° line .

3
1. If sin 𝜃 = 5 and 𝜃 ∈ [0° ; 90°], calculate without the
use of a calculator and with the aid of a diagram the
value of:
a) cos 𝜃 y
b) 𝑡𝑎𝑛2 𝜃 5
3

θ
x

Solution
𝑥 =? 𝑦 = 3 𝑟 = 5
𝑥2 + 𝑦2 = 𝑟2
𝑥 2 + (3)2 = (5)2

𝑥 = ±√25 − 9 But x is positive in the first quadrant

∴𝑥=4
𝑥
a) cos 𝜃 = 𝑟
4
=5

b) 𝑡𝑎𝑛2 𝜃
𝑦 2
= (𝑥 )
3 2
= (4)

9
= 16

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© Gauteng Department of Education

2. If 25cos 𝜃 + 24 = 0 and 𝜃 ∈ (180° ; 360°), calculate without the use of a calculator and
with the aid of a diagram the value of:
c) 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝜃 + 𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝜃 y
d) 12 tan 𝜃 + 10 cos 𝜃
Solution -24 θ
24
cos 𝜃 = − 25
x
𝑥 = −24 𝑦 =? 𝑟 = 25 y 25
𝑥2 + 𝑦2 = 𝑟2
(−24)2 + 𝑦 2 = (25)2

𝑦 = ±√(25)2 − (−24)2 But y is negative in the third quadrant

∴ 𝑦 = −7
a) 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝜃 + 𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝜃
−24 2 −7 2
= ( 25 ) + ( 25 )
=1

b) 12 tan 𝜃 + 10 cos 𝜃
−7 −24
= 12 (−24) + 10 ( 25 )
=

61
= − 10

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© Gauteng Department of Education

 Activities:
Calculate without the use of a calculator and with the aid of a diagram
the value of:
1 If 13cos 𝜃 = 8 and 180° < 𝜃 < 360°

a) tan 𝜃

b) (sin 𝜃 + cos 𝜃)2

2 If 2tan 𝑥 − 7 = 0 and cos 𝑥 < 0

cos 𝑥
a) sin 𝑥
b) 3 sin 𝑥 − 14𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝑥
3 If sin 𝐴 =
2√5
and A∈ [90° ; 360°]
5

a) tan 𝐴 − cos 𝐴

b) 12 tan 𝐴. cos 𝐴
4 5
If sin 𝛼 = 12 with 𝛼 ∈ [90° ; 270°] 𝑎𝑛𝑑
15
cos 𝛽 = − 21 with 𝛽 ∈ [0° ; 180°]

a) sin 𝛽 + cos 𝛼

b) 12 tan 𝛼. tan 𝛽
5 In the diagram below, P(x ; 24) is the point such that OP = 25 and 𝑅𝑂̂𝑃 = 𝛽, where 𝛽 is
the obtuse angle

a) Calculate the value of x.

Determine the value of each of the following WITHOUT using a calculator:

b) sin 𝛽
c) 12 tan 𝛽

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© Gauteng Department of Education

4. Special Angles
Consider the following triangles.

𝜃 0° 30° 45° 60° 90° 180° 270° 360°

sin 𝜃 0 1 √2 1 0 0
2 2 √3
2

cos 𝜃 1 √3 √2 0 −1 1
1
2 2
2

tan 𝜃 0 √3 1 𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑑𝑒𝑓𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑑 0 0

3 √3

5. Reduction formulae
The formulae to used are:
1. 90° ± 𝜃

2. 180° ± 𝜃

3. 360° ± 𝜃

4. −𝜃

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© Gauteng Department of Education

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© Gauteng Department of Education

Negative angles
𝑦
y Positive direction sin 𝜃 = = sin 𝜃
𝑟
𝑥
cos 𝜃 = = cos 𝜃
𝑟
r y
𝑦
tan 𝜃 = = tan 𝜃
𝑥

𝜃
−𝜃 x
sin( −𝜃) =
−𝑦
= −sin 𝜃
𝑟
𝑥
cos(− 𝜃) = = cos 𝜃
r −𝑦 𝑟
−𝑦
tan(−𝜃) = = −tan 𝜃
𝑥
Negative direction
Examples: Calculations involving reduction formulae and
negative angles

Simplify the following:

1. sin(90° − 𝜃). tan (180° + 𝜃) − sin(360° − 𝜃)

= (cos 𝜃). (tan 𝜃) − (−sin 𝜃)
sin 𝜃
= cos 𝜃. cos 𝜃 − sin 𝜃

= sin 𝜃 − sin 𝜃
=0
𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝜃 = (cos 𝜃)2 = cos 𝜃 × cos 𝜃

𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 (180° − 𝜃) = (−cos 𝜃)2 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠2 𝜃

2. 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 (180° + 𝜃) + 𝑠𝑖𝑛2 (90° − 𝜃)
= (𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝜃) + (𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝜃)
= 2𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝜃

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© Gauteng Department of Education

 sin(360°−𝑥)
3. ÷ tan(𝑥 − 180°)
sin(90°−𝑥)

sin 𝑥
= − cos 𝑥 ÷ tan(𝑥 − 180 + 360)

= − tan 𝑥 ÷ tan (180 + 𝑥)

= tan 𝑥 ÷ tan 𝑥
= −1

Two functions are called co-

functions if f(A)=g(B) whenever
Co-functions A+B=90° (that is, A and B are
complementary angles). The
function value of an angle is
equal to the co-function of its
complement.

A + B = 90◦ • sin 𝐴 = cos 𝐵

A B • cos 𝐴 = sin 𝐵
1° 89° sin 1° = cos 89°
2° 88° cos 2° = sin 88°
3° 87° sin 3° = cos 87°
10° 80° cos 10° = sin 80°
20° 70° sin 20° = cos 70°
40° 50° cos 40° = sin 50°
55° 35° sin 55° = cos 35°
59° 31° cos 59° = sin 31°
60° 30° sin 60° = cos 30
71° 19° cos 71° = sin 19°

Example: Simplify the following as function values of acute angles

a) sin 310° = sin(360° − 50°) = − sin 50°
b) tan 110° = tan(180° − 70°) = − tan 70°
c) cos 304° = cos(360° − 56°) = cos 56°
d) cos 335° = cos(360° − 25°) = cos 25°

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© Gauteng Department of Education

Activities
1 Given that 5 tan 𝛼 + 4 = 0 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝛼 ∈ [180° ; 360°°]. Use a suitable diagram to determine
the following without using a calculator.

a) 2 cos(180° − 𝛼)
b) 𝑠𝑖𝑛2 (𝛼 − 90°) − 𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝛼
2 Simplify
𝑠𝑖𝑛2 (360°−𝑥).𝑐𝑜𝑠2 (360°−𝑥)
a) sin(180°+𝑥).sin(180°−𝑥)

sin(720°−𝑥).tan(−𝑥)
b) sin(720°+𝑥).cos(360°−𝑥)

sin(180°−𝛼).cos(360°−𝛼)−cos(−𝛼).sin(180°+𝛼)
c) sin(𝛼+720).cos(180°−𝛼)

3. Simplify
𝑠𝑖𝑛2 (180°+𝐴)
a) 1 −
1−cos(180°+𝐴)

1 𝑐𝑜𝑠2 (−𝑥)
b) − sin(180°−𝑥)
tan(−𝑥).cos(180°−𝑥)

sin(180°−𝜃).sin 𝜃−𝑐𝑜𝑠2 (360°−𝜃)

c) 1
tan(180°+𝜃)+
tan(−𝜃)
4 If cos 35° = 𝑚, determine in terms of m.

a) sin 305°

b) sin(− 325°)

c) tan 125°

d) sin 125
5. Determine
tan 225°.sin 240°.cos 330°
a) cos(−210°).tan 150°

sin 210°.cos 150°

b) tan(−60°).𝑡𝑎𝑛2 330

sin 210°.cos 790°.tan(−330°)

c)
sin(160°)

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© Gauteng Department of Education

 6 Simplify
sin(210°) cos(𝑥+90°)
a) cos 300° + sin(360°+𝑥)

cos(90°+𝑥).sin(180°+𝑥)
b) tan 225°−𝑐𝑜𝑠2 (−𝑥)

Proving trigonometric Identities

Recap: 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝟐 𝜽 + 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝟐 𝜽 = 𝟏
𝒔𝒊𝒏𝟐 𝜽 = 𝟏 − 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝟐 𝜽 = (𝟏 − 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝜽)(𝟏 + 𝒄𝒐𝒔𝜽)
𝒄𝒐𝒔𝟐 𝜽 = 𝟏 − 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝟐 𝜽 = (𝟏 − 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝜽)(𝟏 + 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝜽)
𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜽
𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝜽 =
𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜽
TIPS
a) Chose the most complicated side and use identities to simplify.
• Factorization helps.
b) Look for square identities.
sin 𝑥
c) Change tan 𝑥 = cos 𝑥
d) If the expression contains cos 𝑥 − 1 and cannot be simplified, then multiply the
cos 𝑥+1
expression by cos 𝑥+1

Examples: Prove the following

a) tan 𝐴. cos 𝐴 = sin 𝐴 b)

sin 𝐵−sin 𝐵𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝐵
= tan 𝐵
sin 𝐴 cos 𝐵−1+𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝐵
LHS: tan 𝐴. cos 𝐴 = cos 𝐴 . cos 𝐴
sin 𝐵−sin 𝐵𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝐵
LHS: =
cos 𝐵−1+𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝐵
= sin 𝐴 sin 𝐵(1−cos 𝐵)
∴ 𝐿𝐻𝑆 = 𝑅𝐻𝑆 cos 𝐵−(1−𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝐵)
sin 𝐵(1−cos 𝐵)
= cos 𝐵−𝑐𝑜𝑠2 𝐵
sin 𝐵(1−cos 𝐵)
= cos 𝐵(1−cos 𝐵)
sin 𝐵
= cos 𝐵
= tan 𝐵
∴ 𝐿𝐻𝑆 = 𝑅𝐻𝑆

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© Gauteng Department of Education

Activities:
Prove the following identities
1.
1 cos 𝜃
− = tan 𝜃
cos 𝜃 1 + sin 𝜃

2 cos 𝑥 cos 𝑥
− = 2 tan 𝑥
1 − sin 𝑥 1 + sin 𝑥

3. 1 2
𝑐𝑜𝑠 4 𝐴
− 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝐴 =
𝑡𝑎𝑛2 𝐴 𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝐴

4 1
(tan 𝑦 + ) (1 − 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝑦) = tan 𝑦
tan 𝑦

5.
1
tan 𝛼√ −1=1
𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝛼
6
𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝜃 1 − cos 𝜃
=
𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝜃 + 2 cos 𝜃 + 1 1 + cos 𝜃
2
1 1 − sin 𝑥
7 ( − tan 𝑥) =
cos 𝑥 1 + sin 𝑥

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© Gauteng Department of Education

SESSION 5 TRIGONOMETRIC EQUATIONS AND GENERAL
SOLUTIONS

Before dealing with this topic,

it is absolutely essential for
you to ensure that your
calculator is on “degrees”.
6. Trigonometric Equations
1.Simplify the equation using algebraic methods and trigonometric identities.
2. Determine the reference angle (use a positive value).
3. Use the CAST diagram to determine where the function is positive or negative (depending on
The given equation/information).
4. Restricted values: find the angles that lie within a specified interval by adding/subtracting
multiples of the appropriate period.
5. General solution: find the angles in the interval [0°;360°] that satisfy the equation and add
Multiples of the period to each answer.
6. Check answers using a calculator.

Examples
1
1. Solve for 𝜃 if sin 𝜃 = 3 , 𝜃 ∈ [0° ; 360°]
1
Reference angle = 𝑠𝑖𝑛−1 (3) = 19,47°
1
sin 𝜃 𝑖𝑠 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑙𝑠 𝑡𝑜 + 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑒 𝑖𝑠 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑠 1 𝑎𝑛𝑑 2
3
Quadrant 1 Quadrant 2
𝜃 = 19,47° 𝜃 = 180° − 19,47° = 160,53°

3
2. Solve for 𝜃 if cos 𝜃 = − 5 , 𝜃 ∈ [0° ; 360°]
3
Reference angle = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 (+ 5) = 53,13°
3
cos 𝜃 𝑖𝑠 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑙𝑠 𝑡𝑜 −𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑒 𝑖𝑠 𝑛𝑒𝑔𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑠 2 𝑎𝑛𝑑 3
5
Quadrant 3 Quadrant 2
𝜃 = 180° − 53,13° = 126,87° 𝜃 = 180° + 53,13° = 160,53 = 233,13°

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© Gauteng Department of Education

 12
3. Solve for 𝜃 if tan 𝜃 = − , 𝜃 ∈ [0° ; 360°]
7

12
Reference angle = 𝑡𝑎𝑛−1 ( 7 ) = 59,74°
12
tan 𝜃 𝑖𝑠 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑙𝑠 𝑡𝑜 − 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑖𝑠 𝑛𝑒𝑔𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑠 2 𝑎𝑛𝑑 4
7
Quadrant 2 Quadrant 4
𝜃 = 180° − 59,74° = 120,26° 𝜃 = 360° − 59,74° = 300,26°

General Solutions
The trigonometric functions sinθ and cosθ tanθ has
have a period of 360° a period of 180°.

This means for sin θ and cosθ the same numerical value will be obtained when
adding or subtracting 360° to the specific angle. For tan θ, the same numerical
value will be obtained when 180° is added or subtracted to the specific angle.

Illustrative Example for general solution:

Using the diagram below solve for x if sin x = 0.5 and x [−360;540]

• In the graph above there are 6 solutions to the given equation:

x = −330 or x = −210 or x = 30 or x = 150 or x = 390 or x = 510
• If we use a calculator to solve the problem, only one solution is obtained: x = 30
• This is known as the reference angle (RA).
• By adding and subtracting 360 from the reference angle we obtain the solutions:
x = 330 or x = 390
• To obtain the other solutions, take 180 − RA to obtain 150 .
• By adding and subtracting 360 from 150 , we obtain the solutions:
x = −210 or x = 510
• This is because the sine graph has a period of 360 and therefore repeats
itself every
360 .
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General Solutions: Method to follow when calculating the general solution for sin, cos, and tan.

If sin x = p, and −1  p  1 , then

x = sin −1 ( p) + 360.k and x = 180 − sin −1 ( p) + 360.k , k 

If cos x = p, and −1  p  1 then

x =  cos −1 ( p) + 360, k 

If tan x = p and p  then

x = RA + 180.k , k 

Illustrative Example

tan 2 x
−1 = 0
3

tan 2 x
=1
3
tan 2 x = 3
tan x = 1.73

y=1,73

y=tanx

x
−360 −270 −180 −90 90 180 270 360

y=−1,73

k -2 -1 0 1 2
x −300,03 −239,97 or 120,03 −59,97 or 59,97 120,03 or 239,97 300,03

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© Gauteng Department of Education

Example 1
2
(a) Determine the general solution of sin 𝑥 = 3

(b) Determine θ if 𝜃 ∈ [−360°; 360°]

Solutions

2
Reference angle = 𝑠𝑖𝑛−1 (3) = 41,81°

2
sin 𝜃 𝑖𝑠 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑙𝑠 𝑡𝑜 + 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑒 𝑖𝑠 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑠 1 𝑎𝑛𝑑 2
3
Quadrant 1 Quadrant 2
𝜃 = 41,81° + 𝑘. 360° 𝜃 = 180° − 41,81 + 𝑘. 360°
= 138,19° + 𝑘. 360°

𝑘 ∈ℤ The adding of k.360° means we are adding multiples of 360° in any

direction.

(b) Select interval values of k and calculate specific angles in the required interval.

𝑘 = −1 𝑘=0 𝑘=1
𝜃 = 41,81° + 𝑘. 360° −319,19° 41,81° 401,81 °Not in the
interval
𝜃 = 138,19° + 𝑘. 360° −221,81° 138,19° 498,19° Not in the
interval

∴ 𝜃 ∈ {−319,19° ; −221,81° ; 41,81° ; 138,19° }

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© Gauteng Department of Education

Example 2
18
(a) Determine the general solution of tan 2𝑥 = − 11

(b) Determine x if 𝑥 ∈ (−90°; 180°)

Solutions
18
Reference angle = 𝑡𝑎𝑛−1 (11) = 58,57°

18
tan 𝑥 𝑖𝑠 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑙𝑠 𝑡𝑜 + 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑖𝑠 𝑛𝑒𝑔𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑠 2 𝑎𝑛𝑑 4
11
Quadrant 2 Quadrant 4
2𝑥 = 180° − 58,57° + 𝑘. 180° 2𝑥 = 360° − 58,57 + 𝑘. 180°
2𝑥 = 121,43 + 𝑘. 180° 2𝑥 = 301,43° + 𝑘. 180°
𝑥 = 60,72° + 𝑘. 90° 𝑥 = 150,72° + 𝑘. 90°

𝑘 ∈ℤ
.

(b) Select interval values of k and calculate specific angles in the required interval.
𝑘 = −1 𝑘=0 𝑘=1
𝑥 = 60,72° + 𝑘. 90° −29,28° 60,72° 150,72 °
𝑥 = 150,72° + 𝑘. 90° −60,72° 150,72° 240,72° Not in the
interval

∴ 𝑥 ∈ {−60,72° ; −29,28° ; 60,72° ; 150,72° }

1. Trigonometric equations of the form 𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐧 𝜽 ± 𝒃 𝐜𝐨𝐬 𝜽 = 𝟎

Determine the general solution to the equations 4 sin 𝑥 = 5 cos 𝑥
4 sin 𝑥 = 5 cos 𝑥
4 sin 𝑥 5 cos 𝑥
= divide both sides by cos 𝑥 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 cos 𝑥 ≠ 0
cos 𝑥 cos 𝑥
5
tan 𝑥 = 4
5
Reference angle = 𝑡𝑎𝑛−1 (4) = 51,34°

Quadrant 1 Quadrant 3
𝑥 = 51,34° + 𝑘. 180° 𝑥 = 180° + 51,34° + 𝑘. 180°
𝑘 ∈ℤ 𝑘 ∈ℤ

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 2. Trigonometric equations for which factorization is necessary.
1 + sin 𝑥 − 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝑥 = 0
sin 𝑥 + 1 − 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝑥 = 0
sin 𝑥 − 𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝑥 = 0
sin 𝑥 (1 − sin 𝑥) = 0
sin 𝑥 = 0 𝑜𝑟 sin 𝑥 = 1
For sin 𝑥 = 0 sin 𝑥 = −1
Reference angle = 𝑠𝑖𝑛−1 (0) = 0° Reference angle = 𝑠𝑖𝑛−1 (1) = 90°
Quadrant 1 Quadrant 2 Quadrant 3 Quadrant 4
𝑥 𝑥 𝑥 = 270° + 𝑘. 360° 𝑥 = 270° + 𝑘. 360°
= 0° + 𝑘. 360° = 180° + 𝑘. 360° 𝑘 ∈ℤ 𝑘 ∈ℤ
𝑘 ∈ℤ 𝑘 ∈ℤ

3. Using co-functions to solve trigonometric equations.

Example 1: Determine the general solution of sin(2𝑥) = cos(𝑥 − 10°)

sin(2𝑥) = sin(90° − (𝑥 − 10°))
sin(2𝑥) = sin (100° − 𝑥)
sin 𝑥 𝑖𝑠 𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑡 1 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑡 2
Quadrant 1 Quadrant 2
2𝑥 = 100° − 𝑥 + 𝑘. 360° 2𝑥 = 180° − (100° − 𝑥) + 𝑘. 360°
3𝑥 = 100° + 𝑘. 360° 𝑥 = 80° + 𝑘. 360°
𝑥 = 33,33° + 𝑘. 120°

Example 2 Determine the general solution of cos(3𝑥) = −sin(𝑥 + 20°)

cos(3𝑥) = cos(90° − (𝑥 + 20°))
cos(3𝑥) = −cos (70° − 𝑥)
cos 𝑥 𝑖𝑠 𝑛𝑒𝑔𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑒 𝑖𝑛 𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑡 2 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑞𝑢𝑎𝑑𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑡 3
Quadrant 2 Quadrant 3
3𝑥 = 180° − (70° − 𝑥) + 𝑘. 360° 3𝑥 = 180° + (70° − 𝑥) + 𝑘. 360°
2𝑥 = 110° + 𝑘. 360° 4𝑥 = 250° + 𝑘. 360°
𝑥 = 55° + 𝑘. 180° 𝑥 = 62,5° + 𝑘. 90°

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© Gauteng Department of Education

 4. Trigonometric equations when identities are invalid.
An identity is a statement of equality that is true for all values (except those
values for which the identity is not defined). Previously, equations containing
fractions were solved. When solving these types of equations, we always stated
the restrictions to prevent division by zero.

We will now determine the restrictions for a trigonometric identity. In other

words, the value(s) for which the identity will be undefined.

• Identity with tan 𝜃is undefined for 𝜃 = 90° + 𝑘. 180°, 𝑘 ∈ ℤ

• Make an identity in the denominator equals to zero and solve.
Example
tan 𝑥.𝑐𝑜𝑠2 𝑥 1
Consider the identity : = cos 𝑥 For which values of x will the identity be
sin 𝑥
invalid?

• tan 𝑥 𝑥 = 90° + 𝑘. 180

• sin 𝑥 = 0

Reference angle = 𝑠𝑖𝑛−1 (0) = 0°

Quadrant 1 Quadrant 2
𝑥 = 0° + 𝑘. 360° 𝑥 = 180° + 𝑘. 360° Final answers can be summarised
𝑘 ∈ℤ 𝑘 ∈ℤ
𝑥 = 90° + 𝑘. 180°

• cos 𝑥 = 0 𝑥 = {−90° ; 90°}

Reference angle = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 −1 (0) = 90°

Quadrant 1 Quadrant 2
𝑥 = 90° + 𝑘. 360° 𝑥 = 270° + 𝑘. 360°
𝑘 ∈ℤ 𝑘 ∈ℤ

5. Solving Trigonometric equations without a calculator

√3
Example: Solve for 𝛼 if sin 𝛼 = − 𝛼 ∈ (0° ; 360°) without the use of a calculator.
2

√3
Reference angle = 𝑠𝑖𝑛−1 ( 2 ) = 60°

Quadrant 3 Quadrant 4
𝑥 = 180° + 60° + 𝑘. 360° 𝑥 = 360° − 60° + 𝑘. 360°
𝑥 = 240° + 𝑘. 360° 𝑥 = 300° + 𝑘. 360°
𝑘 ∈ℤ 𝑘 ∈ℤ

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© Gauteng Department of Education

Activities
1 Solve for x if 2 sin 2𝑥 − 1 = 0 where 𝑥 ∈ (0° ; 360°)

2 Determine the general solution of: 1 + 3 cos(𝐴 − 10°) = 0

3 Determine the general solution of : 2 sin 2𝑥 = 3 cos 2𝑥

4 (a) Determine the general solution of: 6𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝜃 − sin 𝜃 = 1

(b) Determine x if 𝑥 ∈ (−180° ; 360°)

5 Determine the general solution of: cos( 2𝑥) = sin(𝑥 − 30°)

6 Determine the general solution of: sin(2𝑥) = − cos(𝑥 − 62°)

7 Determine 𝜃 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝜃 ∈ [−180° ; 180°]

2𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝜃 − 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝜃 − 1 = 0
8 For which values of x in the interval 𝑥 ∈ [0° ; 360°] Will the identity be undefined
cos 𝑥 1 + sin 𝑥 2
+ =
1 + sin 𝑥 cos 𝑥 cos 𝑥

9
Determine the general solution WITHOUT using a calculator of: 4𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝐴 − 3 = 0

10 tan(2 x − 10) = 2,5 where x [−180;180]

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© Gauteng Department of Education

CONSOLIDATION ACTIVITIES

1. Given: 2 sin x − 3 = 0 and cos x  0

Determine the following by using a relevant diagram

a) cos2 x

sin(180 − x)
b)
tan (360 − x) )

c) cos(90 − x) . cos30

2. Simplify without using a calculator:

a) sin150.cos 240.tan 315

cos 210.tan 2 315

b)
sin 300.cos120

sin(180 + )
c)
cos360.cos(360 − )
sin(180°−𝐴).𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐴.sin (90°+𝐴)
d) tan(180°+𝐴).cos(−𝐴).sin (−𝐴)

tan(180 + x)cos(360 − x)
e) sin(180 − x)cos(90 + x) + cos(540 + x)cos(− x)

tan(180°−𝑥).sin (90°+𝑥)
f) − 𝑠𝑖𝑛. cos (90° − 𝑦)
sin (−𝑥)

3. Prove:

sin 2 x. cos x. tan x

a) = sin x
1 − cos2 x

b) sin4 θ − cos4 θ = 1 − 2 cos 𝜃 2

4. Determine the general solution:

a) 3sin2 𝜃 = 2sin𝜃

b) 9sin2 𝜃 = 25cos2 𝜃
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© Gauteng Department of Education