Math Problem Statement

using the appropriate table, find the exact value of sec pi/3

Solution

To find the exact value of sec(π3)\sec \left( \frac{\pi}{3} \right), we can use the trigonometric identity for secant:

secθ=1cosθ\sec \theta = \frac{1}{\cos \theta}

For θ=π3\theta = \frac{\pi}{3}, we need to know the value of cos(π3)\cos \left( \frac{\pi}{3} \right). From the standard trigonometric table, we know that:

cos(π3)=12\cos \left( \frac{\pi}{3} \right) = \frac{1}{2}

Now, apply the secant formula:

sec(π3)=1cos(π3)=112=2\sec \left( \frac{\pi}{3} \right) = \frac{1}{\cos \left( \frac{\pi}{3} \right)} = \frac{1}{\frac{1}{2}} = 2

So, the exact value of sec(π3)\sec \left( \frac{\pi}{3} \right) is 22.

Would you like more details or have any questions about this? Here are 5 related questions to explore:

  1. What is the exact value of sec(π6)\sec \left( \frac{\pi}{6} \right)?
  2. How do you calculate secθ\sec \theta for an angle not on the unit circle?
  3. Can you express secθ\sec \theta in terms of sinθ\sin \theta?
  4. What is the relationship between secant and cosine functions?
  5. How would you solve secθ=2\sec \theta = 2 for θ\theta?

Tip: For angles on the unit circle, always recall their basic sine and cosine values to quickly find secant, cosecant, tangent, and cotangent.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Unit Circle

Formulas

sec θ = 1 / cos θ

Theorems

Trigonometric identities

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12