Unit circle trigonometry

Lisa Chen
6 min read
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Study Guide Overview
This study guide covers the unit circle, focusing on its basics (radius, origin, angles in radians and degrees, coordinates using cos(θ) and sin(θ)). It details the relationship between angles and coordinates, emphasizing initial and terminal sides. Key sine, cosine, and tangent values for common angles are highlighted, along with trigonometric ratios (SOHCAHTOA, ASTC). The guide also explains how to apply these ratios in right triangles to find side lengths and angles using inverse trigonometric functions. Finally, it provides practice questions and exam tips.
#The Unit Circle: Your Trigonometry Secret Weapon 🚀
Hey there, future math master! Let's dive into the unit circle – your best friend for tackling those tricky trig questions on the SAT. Think of it as a visual cheat sheet that unlocks a world of understanding. This guide is designed to be your go-to resource the night before the exam, so let's make every minute count!
#Unit Circle Basics
#What is the Unit Circle?
- A circle with a radius of 1 unit, centered at the origin (0, 0). It’s your visual playground for angles and trig functions.
- Angles are measured in radians (full circle = 2π) or degrees (full circle = 360°).
- We always start measuring angles counterclockwise from the positive x-axis.
- The coordinates of any point on the circle are given by (cos(θ), sin(θ)), where θ is the angle.
- The unit circle's equation, , comes straight from the Pythagorean theorem. 💡
#Angle-Coordinate Relationship
- The angle's initial side is always on the positive x-axis.
- The terminal side is where the angle measurement stops.
- The x-coordinate of the point where the terminal side intersects the circle is equal to cos(θ).
- The y-coordinate of the point where the terminal side intersects the circle is equal to sin(θ).
- For example, a 90° (or π/2 radians) angle puts you at the point (0, 1).
#Sine, Cosine, and Tangent Values
#Common An...

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