What is Trigonometry?
The word trigonometry is derived from the Greek words trigonon, meaning triangle, and metron meaning measure. It is defined as the branch of mathematics that establishes the relationship between the angles and sides. Trigonometry is not only used for solving triangles, but many other straight-sided shapes are simplified into a collection of triangles. Moreover, strangles is also related to other branches of mathematics like infinite series, calculus, and complex numbers.
Trigonometry helps us in finding the missing sides and angles by using the trigonometric ratios. These ratios are mainly measured in degrees and radians. The three known and commonly used trigonometric functions are sine cosine and tangent, which are abbreviated as sin, cos, and tan, respectively. Apart from these three functions, trigonometry also uses three other functions, namely cosec, sec, and cot. These three other functions are the inverse functions of sine, cosine, and tangent functions. The six trigonometric functions are defined below:
Sine: It is defined as the ratio of the opposite side to the hypotenuse of the right-angled triangle.
Cosine: it is defined as the ratio of the adjacent side to the hypotenuse of the right-angled triangle.
Tangent: It is defined as the ratio of the opposite side to the adjacent of the right-angled triangle.
Cosec: It is defined as the ratio of the hypotenuse to the opposite side of the right-angled triangle.
Sec: It is defined as the ratio of the hypotenuse to the adjacent side of the right-angled triangle.
Cot: It is defined as the ratio of the adjacent side to the opposite side of the right-angled triangle.
What is the Importance of Trigonometry in Real Life?
Trigonometry is defined as the study of triangles involving calculations with height, length, and angles. Typically, trigonometry is limited to calculating the missing measurements of a triangle in geometric problems. However, it can also be used in our daily life for calculating distances, heights, and lengths.
Trigonometry is utilized in calculating the height of a mountain and building. The height of the building can be determined by using trigonometric functions. The elevation of the mountain can be estimated by using the elevation angle and the trigonometric functions.
Trigonometry is also incorporated in aviation technology. We use the distance, direction, and speed of the wind, which play a vital role in determining when and in which direction the flight will travel. Also, the equation cab is calculated by using trigonometric functions.
Nowadays, trigonometric functions are also used in the investigation of a crime. We use these functions to determine the projectile and the trajectory of the collision of a car. These functions are also helpful in determining the angle of the gunshot and knowing how an object falls.
Trigonometry is used in estimating the right direction of the compass. These functions allow us to precisely determine the location and also figure out the distance of the horizon.