Trigonometric functions
Definition
Trigonometric functions relate angles in a right triangle to ratios of side lengths. The six main trigonometric functions are sine (sin), cosine (cos), tangent (tan), cosecant (csc), secant (sec), and cotangent (cot).
Analogy
Trigonometric functions are like tools in your toolbox that help you measure angles and sides in triangles. Each tool has its own specific purpose, just like each trigonometric function has its own unique ratio relationship.
Related terms
Unit circle: A circle with radius 1 centered at the origin used to define trigonometric values for any angle.
Periodicity: The property of trigonometric functions that repeats their values after certain intervals.
Inverse trigonometric functions: Functions that "undo" the effects of trigonometric functions by finding angles given specific ratios.
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