Math Problem Statement

Find the values of cos(α) and sin(α) based on a right triangle with sides a = √3 (adjacent), b = 1 (opposite), and c (hypotenuse to be calculated).

Solution

It looks like the image shows a right triangle with sides labeled and an angle α\alpha. We're asked to find the values of cosα\cos \alpha and sinα\sin \alpha.

From the image, we have:

  • a=3a = \sqrt{3} (the length of the adjacent side),
  • b=1b = 1 (the length of the opposite side),
  • cc is the hypotenuse, which we need to calculate.

Using the Pythagorean theorem:

c2=a2+b2c^2 = a^2 + b^2

Substitute a=3a = \sqrt{3} and b=1b = 1:

c2=(3)2+12=3+1=4c^2 = (\sqrt{3})^2 + 1^2 = 3 + 1 = 4

So,

c=2c = 2

Now, we can calculate the trigonometric values:

  1. cosα=adjacenthypotenuse=ac=32\cos \alpha = \frac{\text{adjacent}}{\text{hypotenuse}} = \frac{a}{c} = \frac{\sqrt{3}}{2}
  2. sinα=oppositehypotenuse=bc=12\sin \alpha = \frac{\text{opposite}}{\text{hypotenuse}} = \frac{b}{c} = \frac{1}{2}

Thus:

  • cosα=32\cos \alpha = \frac{\sqrt{3}}{2}
  • sinα=12\sin \alpha = \frac{1}{2}

Let me know if you need more details or further assistance!

Here are a few questions for deeper exploration:

  1. How would the results change if the triangle's sides had different lengths?
  2. What are the exact values for tanα\tan \alpha and secα\sec \alpha?
  3. How can we calculate the angle α\alpha using cosα\cos \alpha?
  4. Can we use the sine and cosine values to find other trigonometric functions?
  5. How would you use the Pythagorean identity to check the accuracy of these results?

Tip: Always double-check the units and ensure you're applying the correct formula, especially in trigonometry where angle measurement units (degrees or radians) matter!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Pythagorean Theorem
Basic Trigonometric Ratios

Formulas

Pythagorean theorem: c^2 = a^2 + b^2
Cosine ratio: cos(α) = adjacent/hypotenuse
Sine ratio: sin(α) = opposite/hypotenuse

Theorems

Pythagorean Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-11