Math Problem Statement

circular functions  

  1. cos 5π/6

Solution

To find cos(5π6)\cos\left(\frac{5\pi}{6}\right), let's go through the process step-by-step.

Step 1: Determine the Reference Angle

The given angle is 5π6\frac{5\pi}{6}. This angle is in the second quadrant of the unit circle. The reference angle for 5π6\frac{5\pi}{6} is: π5π6=π6.\pi - \frac{5\pi}{6} = \frac{\pi}{6}.

Step 2: Determine the Cosine of the Reference Angle

The cosine of the reference angle π6\frac{\pi}{6} is: cos(π6)=32.\cos\left(\frac{\pi}{6}\right) = \frac{\sqrt{3}}{2}.

Step 3: Adjust the Sign Based on the Quadrant

Since 5π6\frac{5\pi}{6} is in the second quadrant, and the cosine is negative in the second quadrant, we have: cos(5π6)=32.\cos\left(\frac{5\pi}{6}\right) = -\frac{\sqrt{3}}{2}.

Thus, cos(5π6)=32.\cos\left(\frac{5\pi}{6}\right) = -\frac{\sqrt{3}}{2}.

Would you like more details or have any questions?

Related Questions

  1. What is the sine of 5π6\frac{5\pi}{6}?
  2. How do you find the tangent of 5π6\frac{5\pi}{6}?
  3. What are the circular function values for 2π3\frac{2\pi}{3}?
  4. How do reference angles help in finding trigonometric values?
  5. What are the properties of trigonometric functions in different quadrants?

Tip

Always identify the reference angle and the quadrant when evaluating trigonometric functions to determine the correct sign and value.

Ask a new question for Free

By Image

Drop file here or Click Here to upload

Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Circular Functions
Unit Circle

Formulas

cos(θ) for angles in the unit circle
Reference angle formula: π - θ for angles in the second quadrant

Theorems

Trigonometric function signs in different quadrants
Cosine of reference angles

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12