Math Problem Statement
Blake is told that an angle has a cosine of −1/√6 and is in Quadrant III. Use the Pythagorean identity sin^2(θ)+cos^2(θ)=1, the trigonometric identity tanθ=sinθ/cosθ, and the quadrant to find the tangent.
Solution
We are tasked to find the tangent of an angle given that and the angle lies in Quadrant III.
Step 1: Use the Pythagorean Identity to Find
The Pythagorean identity is:
Substitute :
Simplify:
Thus:
Step 2: Determine the Sign of
In Quadrant III, both sine and cosine are negative. Therefore:
Step 3: Use the Definition of Tangent
The tangent of an angle is defined as:
Substitute and :
Simplify the signs:
Simplify the fraction:
Final Answer:
Do you have any questions, or would you like a detailed explanation of any step? Here are five related questions for further exploration:
- How do the signs of trigonometric functions vary across the four quadrants?
- Can you use the reciprocal identities (secant, cosecant) to verify the values found here?
- What would the tangent be if were in Quadrant II instead?
- How is the unit circle related to the Pythagorean identity?
- How does knowing the value of help in solving triangles?
Tip: Always determine the signs of sine and cosine using the quadrant information to ensure the correct value of the tangent!
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Trigonometry
Pythagorean Identity
Quadrants and Signs of Trigonometric Functions
Formulas
Pythagorean identity: sin^2(θ) + cos^2(θ) = 1
Definition of tangent: tan(θ) = sin(θ)/cos(θ)
Theorems
Pythagorean identity
Sign rules for trigonometric functions in different quadrants
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 10-12
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