CP Algebra II 4/22/16
Right Triangle Trigonometry
Name:__________________
If  is the measure of an acute angle of a right triangle, then the following trigonometric function
involving the opposite side, the adjacent side, and the hypotenuse are true.
sin q =
opp
hyp
(sine)
Reciprocal Functions:
hyp
cscq =
opp
(cosecant)
cosq =
adj
hyp
opp
adj
(tangent)
hyp
adj
adj
opp
(cotangent)
(cosine)
secq =
(secant)
tanq =
cot q =
Example #1: Find the six trigonometric values in the right triangle for angle q :
Example #2: Use a trigonometric function to solve for x. Round to the nearest tenth.
Example #3: Use a trigonometric function to solve for angle x. How is this different than solving for a
side?
Solving for angles in right triangles...
Example #4: Solve △ ABC if mÐA = 42˚ a = 12 and mÐC = 90˚ .
Angle of Elevation
vs.
Angle of Depression
Example #5: An observer in the Cape May Lighthouse spots a ship in the ocean. The angle of
depression from the observer to the ship is 13˚. The observer is 157 feet above the sea level. How far is
the boat from the base of the lighthouse?
Example #6: A golfer is standing at the tee, looking up to the green on a hill. If the tee is 36 yards
lower than the green and the angle of elevation from the tee to the hole is 12˚, find the distance from the
tee to the hole.