136

SECTION 4 - TRIGONOMETRY
UNIT 17
INTRODUCTION TO TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS

OBJECTIVE:
After studying this lesson the cadets should be able to:

• Identify the sides of a right triangle with reference to any angle

• State the ratios of the 6 trigonometric functions in relation to given triangles.
• Find function of given angles using both the degree-10 minute and decimal degree
trigonometric function tables.
• Find angles of given functions using both the degree-10 minute and decimal degree
trigonometric function tables
• Interpolate angles and functions using both the degree-10 minute and decimal degree
trigonometric function tables

Trigonometry is the branch of mathematics which is used to compute unknown angles and
sides of triangles. The word trigonometry is derived from Greek words for triangle and
measurement. Trigonometry is based on the principles of geometry. Many problems require
the use of both geometry and trigonometry.

A knowledge of trigonometry and the ability to apply the knowledge in actual occupational
uses is required in many skilled trades. Machinist, surveyors, drafters, electricians, and
electronic technicians are a few of the many occupational in which trigonometry is a
requirement.
Practical problems are often solved by using a combination of elements of algebra,
geometry, and trigonometry. It is essential that you develop the ability to analyze a
problem in order to determine the mathematical principles which are involved in the
solution. The solution is done in orderly steps based on mathematical facts.

17-1 IDENTIFYING RIGHT TRIANGLE SIDES BY NAME

The sides of a right triangle are named the opposite side, adjacent side, and the hypotenuse.
The hypotenuse is the longest side of a right triangle and is always the side opposite the
right angle. The positions of the opposite and adjacent sides depend on the reference angle.
The opposite sides is opposite the reference angle. The adjacent side is next to the reference
angle.
Unit 17 - Introduction to Trigonometric Functions 137
For example, in figure 17-1, the hypotenuse ( c ) is opposite the right angle. In reference to
angle A, b is the adjacent side and a is the opposite side. In figure 17-2, the hypotenuse
( c ) is opposite the right angle. In reference to angle B, side b is the opposite side and
side a is the adjacent side. It is important to be able to identify the opposite and adjacent
sides of right triangles in reference to any angle regardless of the positions of the triangles.

c c
(Hypotenuse) a (Hypotenuse) B a
(Opposite) (Adjacent)

A
b b
(Adjacent) (Opposite)
Fig. 17-1 Fig. 17-2

17-2 TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS: RATIO METHOD

There are two methods of defining trigonometric functions: the unity or unit circle method
and the ratio method. Only ratio method is presented in this book. Since a triangle has three
sides and a ratio is the comparison of any two sides, there are six different ratios. The names
of the ratios are the sine, cosine, tangent, cotangent, secant and cosecant
The six trigonometric functions are defined in the table shown in figure 17.4. They are
defined in relation to the triangle shown in figure 17.3, where the reference angle is A, the
adjacent side is b, the opposite side is a, and the hypotenuse is c.

c
a

A

b
Fig. 17-3
U n it 1 7 - In tro d u c tio n to T rig o n o m e tric F u n c tio n s 1 3 8
Unit 17 - Introduction to Trigonometric Functions 139
17-4 THE DEGREE-10 MINUTE TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTION TABLES

The Trigonometric Functions for Degrees and Minutes Table found in the Appendix should
be used when computing English units of measure. Observe that the angles are listed in 10’
increments. Angles from 00 to 450 are located in the left column and increase in value
reading from the top to the bottom of a page. Angles 450 to 900 are located in the right
column and increase in value reading from the bottom to the top of a page.

Observe that a column which is labeled sin on the top of a page is labeled cos on the bottom.
The same is also true for the other cofunctions. The top function names are used when
locating functions of angles from 00 to 450. The bottom function names are used when
locating functions of angle from 450 to 900.
These examples illustrate the procedure for locating function of a given angle.
Example: Find the sine of 230 40’.
Procedure: Locate 230 in the left column and move down to the 40’ row. Locate
the sin function on top of the page and move down the sin column to
the 230 40’ row. The value found is 0.401 41.
The sine of 230 40’ is 0.401 41 Ans

17-5 THE DECIMAL DEGREE TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTION TABLE

The Trigonometric Functions for Decimal Fraction of a Degree Table found in the Appendix
should be used when computing metric units of measure. Observe that the angles are listed
in 0.10 increments. As with the degree-minute table, angles from 00 to 450 are located in
the left column and increase in value reading from the top to the bottom of a page. Angles
450 to 900 are located in the right column and increase in value reading from the bottom to
the top of a page.
The table columns are labeled the same as the labeling of the degree-minute table. The top
function names are used when locating functions of angles from 0 0 to 450. The bottom
function names are used when locating functions of angle from 45 0 to 900.
The procedure for locating a function of a given angle or an angle of a given function is the
same as with using the decimal-minute table.
Example: Find the tangent of 39.70 .
Procedure: Locate 390 in the left column and move down to the 0.70 row. Locate
the tan function on top of the page and move down the tan column to
the 39.70 row. The value found is 0.830 2. The tangent of 39.70 is
0.830 2 Ans
Unit 17 - Introduction to Trigonometric Functions 140
17-6 INTERPOLATION USING TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTION TABLES

To determine the function of an angle or the angle of a function not listed in the trigonometric
function tables, a method called interpolation is used. Interpolation is a method of finding
values between two known values.
When interpolating values, it is important to consider whether the function of an angle
increase or decrease as an angle increases. Function that do not begin with “co” (sine,
tangent, secant) increase as the angle increases. Function that begin with “co” (cosine,
cotangent, cosecant) decrease as the angle increases. When interpolating functions of a given
angle whether the functions increases or decreases must be keep in mind. The type of function
determines whether an obtained value is added or subtracted in the final interpolation
computation. This fact is illustrated in the interpolation examples which follow.

Observe the following rules when using the table in this book in solving problem which
require interpolation. When interpolation functions from given angles or angles from given
functions, do not use the cotangent, secant, or cosecant functions for angles less than 150.
Do not use the tangent, secant, or cosecant functions for angles greater than 750. The trigo-
nometric functions which are listed in 10’ and 0.1 , in the respective tables, produce changes
which are either too small or too large to always obtain accurate interpolated values.

17-7 INTERPOLATION USING DEGREE-10 MINUTES TABLES

The example illustrate interpolation of functions of given angles.

Example: Determine the tangent of 370 23’.

Procedure: The angle 370 23’ lies between 370 20’ and 370 30’. Therefore,
the tangent function of 370 23’ lies between the tangent of 370 20’
and the tangent 370 30’
• Determine a ratio using the given angles: The difference between 370 20’ and 370 30’ is
3
10’ and the difference between 370 20’ and 370 23’ is 3’. The ratio is
10

• Look up the tangent 370 20’ and the tangent 370 30’. The tangent 370 20’ is 0.762 72.
The tangent of 370 30’ is 0.767 33. Compute the difference between the two functions:
0.767 33 - 0.762 72 = 0.00461.
3
• Multiply the function difference by a ratio : x 0.00461 = 0.001 38. Add 0.001 38
10
to the function 0.762 72 of the smaller angle 370 20’ : 0.762 72 + 0.001 38 = 0.76410.
The tangent of 370 23’, to 4 decimal places, is 0.764 1 Ans.
Unit 17 - Introduction to Trigonometric Functions 141
Note: The value 0.001 38 was added to 0.762 72 because the tangent is an increasing function.

tan 370 20’ = 0.762 72

3’ 0.001 38
10’ tan 370 23’ = 0.764 10 0.004 61

tan 370 30’ = 0.767 33

This example illustrates the interpolation of an angle of a given function.

Example: Determine the angle whose sine is 0.362 16.
Procedure: • Look up the nearest sine functions that 0.362 16 lies between:
0.362 16 lies between the sine functions 0.361 08 whose angle
is 210 10’ and the sine function 0.363 79 whose angle is
210 20’.
• Determine the ratio using the obtained functions: The difference
between 0.361 08 and 0.363 79 is 0.002 71. The difference
between 0.361 08 and 0.362 16 is 0.001 08. The resulting ratio is
0.001 08 108
or
0.002 71 271
• The difference between 210 10’ and 210 20’ is 10’. Multiply the
1 080
angle difference by the ratio: 108 x 10’ = = 3.99 = 4’
271 271
Add: 210 10’ + 4’ = 210 14’. The angle whose sine is
0.362 16 is 210 14’.

sin 210 10’ = 0.361 08

4’ 0.001 08
10’ sin 210 14’ = 0.362 16 0.002 71

sin 210 20’ = 0.363 79

Note: In this example, the numerator 0.001 08 of the ratio 0.001 08 was determined
0.002 71
In reference to the sine function of the smaller angle 21 10’. Always compute the
0

numerator of the ratio in reference to the function of the smaller angle whether the function
is increasing or decreasing. In doing so, the final interpolation computation always involves
adding the computed minute value to the smaller angle.
Unit 17 - Introduction to Trigonometric Functions 142
17-8 INTERPOLATION USING DECIMAL-DEGREE TABLES

The procedures for interpolation using the decimal-degree trigonometric function table is
the same as when using the degree-10 minute table. The only difference is that 0.10 table
increments are used rather than 10’ increments. Angles are computed to the nearer 0.01
degree rather than to the nearer minute.
This example illustrate interpolation of a function of a given angle.
Example: Determine the sine of 14.860.

Procedure: • The angle 14.860 lies between 14.80 and 14.90 . Therefore, the sine function
of 14.860 lies between the sine 14.80 and the sine 14.90 .
• Determine a ratio using the given angles: the difference between 14.8 0 and
14.90 is 0.10 and difference between 14.80 and 14.860 is 0.060.
The resulting ratio is 0.06 or 6
0.1 10
• Look up the sine of 14.80 and the sine 14.90. The sine of 14.80 is 0.255 4.
The sine of 14.90 is 0.257 1. Compute the difference between the two
functions: 0.257 1 - 0.255 4 = 0.001 7.

• Multiply the function difference by the ratio: 6 x = 0.001 7 = 0.001 0.

10
Add 0.001 0 to the function 0.255 4 of the smaller angle 14.80: 0.255 4 +
0.001 0 = 0.256 4. The sine of 14.860 is 0.256 4 Ans.

Note: The value 0.001 0 was added to 0.255 4 because the sine is an
increasing function.

sin 14.80 = 0.255 4

0.060 0.001 0
0.10 sin 14.860 = 0.256 4 0.001 7

sin 14.90 = 0.257 1

Unit 17 - Introduction to Trigonometric Functions 142
SOLVING PROBLEM

With reference to 1, name the sides of each of these right triangles as opposite, adjacent
or hypotenuse.

1. Name side r, x, and y. 2. Name side a, b, and c.

r y c
a
1
1
x
b
3. Name side a, b, and c. 4. Name side d, m, and p.
m
a
b
1 d p
1
c

5. Name side m, r, and t.

r t
1
m

6. Find the tangent of 580 20’

7. Find the angle whose cosine is 0.311 78.

8. Find the angle whose cotangent is 1.718 2.

9. Determine the cosine of 620 46’ . Interpolate using degree 10-minute tables.

10. Determine the angle whose cotangent is 0.953 4. Interpolate using decimal-degree
table.
 143
SECTION 4 - TRIGONOMETRY
UNIT 18
TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS WITH RIGHT TRIANGLES

OBJECTIVE:
After studying this lesson the cadets should be able to:

• Compute unknown angles of right triangles when two sides are known.

• Compute unknown angles of right triangles when an angle and a side are known.

18-1 DETERMINING AN UNKNOWN ANGLE WHEN TWO SIDES OF A

RIGHT TRIANGLE ARE KNOWN

In order to solve for an unknown angle of a right where neither acute angle is known, at
least two sides must be known. The following procedures outlines the steps required in
computing an angle.

Procedure for Determining an Unknown Angle When Two Sides Are Given

• In relation to the desired angle, identify two given sides as adjacent, opposite, or
hypotenuse.

• Determine the function that are ratios of the sides identified in relation to the desired
angle.
Note: Two of the six trigonometric functions are ratios of the two known sides. Either
of the two functions can be used. Both produce the same value for the unknown,
except for cotangents, secants, and cosecants of the angles less than 15 0 and
tangents, secants, and cosecants of angle greater than 75 0.
• Choose one of the two functions, substitute the given sides in the ratio, and divide.

• Using the tables of trigonometric functions found in the Appendix, determine the angle
that corresponds to the quotient obtained. It is often necessary to interpolate. Use the
degree-10 minute table when computing with English units. Use the decimal-degree
table when computing with metric units.
Unit 18 - Trigonometric Functions With Right Triangles 144
Example: Determine  A of the right triangle shown in figure 20-1 to the nearer minute.

4.270 in
(opposite)
A
8.900 in
(adjacent)

Fig. 18-1

In relation to  A, the 8.900-inch side is the adjacent side and the 4.270-inch side is the
opposite side.
Determine the
� two functions whose ratios consist�of the adjacent and opposite sides. The
opposite side adjacent side
tan  A = , and the cot  A = Either the tangent and the
adjacent side opposite side
cotangent functions can be used.
4.270
Choosing the tangent function, tan  A = , tan  A = 0.47978.
8.900
Interpolate from the degree-10 minute function table to determine the angle whose tangent
is nearer 0.47978. The angle interpolated to the nearer minute is 25 0 38’.
Angle A = 250 38’ Ans.

18-2 DETERMINING AN UNKNOWN SIDE WHEN AN ACUTE ANGLE

AND ONE SIDE OF A RIGHT TRIANGLE ARE KNOWN

In order to solve for an unknown side of a right triangle at least an acute angle and one side
must be known. The following procedure outlines the steps required in computing the
unknown side.

Procedure for Determining an Unknown Side When an Angle and a Side Are Given

• In relation to the given angle, identify the given side and the unknown as adjacent,
opposite, or hypotenuse.
• Determine the trigonometric functions that are ratios of the sides identified in relation
to the given angle.
Unit 18 - Trigonometric Functions With Right Triangles 145
Note: Two of the six trigonometric functions will be found as ratios of the two identified
sides. Either of the two functions can be used. Both produce the same value for the
unknown except for cotangents, secants, and cosecants of angles less than 15 0 and
tangents, secants, and cosecants of angles greater than 75 0. If the unknown side is
made the numerator of the ratio, the problem is solved by multiplication. If the
unknown side is made the denominator of the ratio, the problem is solved by
division.
• Choose one of the two functions and substitute the given side and given angle.

• Using the trigonometric function table found in the Appendix, look up the function of
the given angle and substitute this value. If the angle is not given in the table,
interpolate the function of the angle. Use the degree-10 minute table when computing
with English units. Use the decimal-degree table when computing with metric units.

• Solve as a proportion for the unknown side.

Example: Determine side x of the right triangle shown in figure 18-2.

Solution: In relation to the 610 50’ angle, the 5.410-inch side is the adjacent
side and side x is the opposite side.

x
(OPP)
Fig. 18-2

610 50’

5.410 in
(ADJ)

Determine the two functions whose ratios consist of the adjacent and opposite sides.
Opposite side Adjacent side . Either the tangent
The tan 610 50’ = and the cot 610 50’ =
Adjacent side Opposite side
x
or cotangent function can be used. Choosing the tangent function, tan 61 0 50’ =
5.410 in
Look up tangent of 610 50’ in the function table: tan 610 50’ = 1.8676. Substitute 1.8676
x
for tan 610 50’: 1.8676 = . Solve as proportion x = 1.8676 (5.410)
5.410 in = 10.104 Ans
Unit 18 - Trigonometric Functions With Right Triangles 146
SOLVING PROBLEM
1. Determine  B of the right triangle shown in figure 18-3 to the nearer hundredth degree.

12.640 cm B
(hypotenuse)
7.310 cm
(adjacent)

A Fig. 18-3
2. Determine  1 and  2 of the triangle shown in figure 18-4 to the nearer minute.

1 7.180 in

8.364 in
2
4.290 in

Fig. 18-4
3. Determine side r of the right triangle shown in figure 18-5.

28.760
15.775 cm
(opp) r
(hyp)

Fig. 18-5
4. Determine side x, side y, and  1of the right triangle shown in figure 18-6.

1
Fig 18-6 y
15.740 in

700 30’
x
 147
SECTION 4 - TRIGONOMETRY
UNIT 19
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS WITH RIGHT TRIANGLES

OBJECTIVE:
After studying this lesson the cadets should be able to:

• Solve applied problems stated in word form.

• Solve relatively simple applied problems which require the projection of auxiliary lines
and the application of geometric principles
• Solve more complex applied problems which require forming two or more right
triangles by the projection of auxiliary lines.

In the previous unit, you solved for the unknown angles and sides of right triangles.
Emphasis was placed on developing an understanding and the ability to apply proper
procedures in solving for angles and sides. No attempt was made to show the many practical
applications of right angle trigonometry.

In this unit, practical application from various occupational fields are presented. A great
advantage of trigonometry is that it provides a method of computing angles and distances
without actually having to physically measure them. Often problems are not given directly
in the form of right triangles. They may be given in word form, which may require
expressing word statements as pictures by sketching right triangles. Also, often when a
problem is given in picture form, a right triangle does not appear. In types of problems,
right triangles must be developed within the given picture.

19.1 SOLVING PROBLEMS STATED IN WORD FORM

When solving a problem stated I word form

• sketch a right triangle based on the given information.

• Label the known parts of the triangle with the given values. Label the angle or side
which is to be found.
• Follow the procedure for determining an unknown angle or side of a right triangle.
Unit 19 - Practical Applications With Right Triangles 148
Example: A brace 15 feet long is to support a wall. One end of the brace is fastened to the
floor at an angle of 400 with the floor. At what height from the floor will the
brace be fastened to the wall.
Solution: Sketch and label a right triangle as shown in figure 19-1. Let h represent the
unknown height. Compute h: wall
brace
Sin 400 = h
15
15 ft
h h
0.642 79 = floor
15
400
h = 9.64 ft Ans
Fig. 19-1
Surveying and navigation computation are based on right angle trigonometry. A surveyor
uses a transit to measure angles between locations. By a combination of angle and distance
measurements, distance which cannot be measured directly can be computed.
When a surveyor sights a point which is either above or below horizontal, the measured
angle is read on the transit vertical protractor. When a point above eye level is sighted, the
transit telescope is pointed upward. The angle formed by the line of sight and the horizontal
is called angle of elevation. An angle of elevation is shown in figure 19-2. When a point
below eye level is sighted, the transit telescope is pointed downward. The angle formed by
the line of sight and the horizontal is called the angle of depression. An angle of depression
is shown in figure 19-3.

Fig. 19-2 Fig. 19-3

Unit 19 - Practical Applications With Right Triangles 149
Example: A surveyor wishes to measure the distance between two horizontal points. The
two points, A and B, are separated by a river and can not be directly measured.
The surveyor does the following:
From point A, point B is sighted, then the transit telescope is
is turned 900. Along the 900 sighting, a distance of 80 feet is
measured and a stake is driven at the 80-foot distance (point C).
From point C, the surveyor points the transit telescope back to
point A. Then the transit telescope is turned to point B across
the river. An angle of 700 20’ is read on the transit. What
is the distance between points A and B that could not be
directly measured?
Solution: Sketch and label a right triangle as shown in
figure 19-4. Compute distance AB

AB AB
tan 700 20’ = 2.7980 = Fig. 19-4
AC 80

AB = 223.84 ft Ans

19.2 SOLVING PROBLEMS GIVEN IN PICTURE FORM WHICH

REQUIRE AUXILIARY LINES

The following examples are practical applications of right angle trigonometry, although they
do not appear in the form of right triangles. To solve the problems, it is necessary to project
auxiliary lines to produce right triangles. The unknown value, and the given or computed
values are parts of the produced right triangle.
The auxiliary lines may be projected between given points or from given points. Also, they
may be projected parallel or perpendicular to centerlines, tangents, or other reference lines.
A knowledge of both geometric and trigonometric principles and the ability to apply the
principles to specific situations are required in solving these problems. It is important to
carefully study the procedures and use of auxiliary lines as they are applied in the solutions
of these examples.
Unit 19 - Practical Applications With Right Triangles 150

Example: Compute  1 in the pattern shown in figure 19-5

Solution: Angle 1 must be computed by forming a right

triangle which contains  1. Refer to figure
19-6.

Project line segment AB parallel to the base of

the pattern. Project vertical segment CB. Right
Fig. 19-5
ABC is formed.

Compute sides AB and CB:

AB = 32.78 cm - 14.35 cm = 18.43 cm

CB = 19.00 cm - 7.30 cm = 11.70 cm Fig. 19-6

Solve for  1:
CB 11.70
tan  1 = = = 0.634 8
AB 18.43

 1 = 32.40 Ans
19-3 SOLVING MORE COMPLEX PROBLEMS WHICH REQUIRE
AUXILIARY LINES
The example and problem are more challenging than those previously presented. This
problem is also practical applications which require a combination of principles from
geometry and trigonometry in their solution. Two or more right triangles must be formed
with auxiliary lines for the solution of each problem.
Typical examples from various occupational fields are discussed. It is essential that you
study and, if necessary, restudy the procedures which are given in detail for solving the
examples. There is a common tendency to begin writing computations before the complete
solution to a problem has been thought through. This tendency must be avoided.
As problems become more complex, a greater proportion of time and effort is required in
analyzing the problems. After a problem has been completely analyzed, the written
computations must be developed in clear and orderly steps.
Apply the following procedures when solving complex problem.
Unit 19 - Practical Applications With Right Triangles 151

Method of Solution

Analyze the problem before writing computations.

• Relate given dimension to the unknown and determine whether other dimensions in
addition to the given dimensions are required in the solution.
• Determine the auxiliary lines required to form right triangle which contain dimensions
that are needed for the solution.
• Determine whether sufficient dimensions are known to obtain required values within
the right triangles. If enough information is not available for solving a triangle, continue
the analysis until enough information is obtained.
• Check each step in the analysis to verify that there are no gaps or false assumptions.

Example: A plaza is to be constructed in a city redevelopment area. The shaded area shown
in figure 19.7 represent the proposed plaza. Determine y.

Analyze the problem. Fig. 19.7

Generally, when solving problems which involve an arc which is tangent to one or more
lines, it is necessary to project the radius of the arc to the tangent point and to project a line
from the vertex of the unknown angle to the center of the arc.
Refer to figure 19.8. Project auxiliary line segments between points A and O and from
point O to tangent point B. Right ACO and right ABO are formed
If 1 and 2 can be determined,  y can be computed.

Fig. 19-8
Unit 19 - Practical Applications With Right Triangles 152

Determine whether enough information is given to solve for  1. In right ACO, AC =

135 m and OC = 120 m. There is enough information to determine  1.
Determine whether enough information is given to solve for  2. In right ABO, OB =
50 m. Side OA is also a side of right ACO and can be computed by the Pythagorean
Theorem or after  1 is computed. There is enough information given to determine  2.
Computation:

Solve for  1:
OC 120 = 0.888 9
tan  1 = =
AC 135

 1 = 41.650

Solve for side OA:

OA2 = OC2 + AC2

OA2 = 1202 + 1352

OA2 = 14 400 + 18 225
OA2 = 32 625
OA = 180.624 m Fig 19-8

Solve for  2:
OB 50
sin  2 = = = 0.276 8
OA 180. 624
2 = 16.070

Solve for  y:

 y = 900 - (  1 +  2)

 y = 900 - (41.650 + 16.070 )

 y = 32. 280
Unit 19 - Practical Applications With Right Triangles 153
SOLVING PROBLEM
1. A surveyor is to determine the height of a tower. The transit is positioned at a
horizontal distance of 35 meters from the foot of the tower. An angle of elevation of
580 is read in sighting the top of the tower. The height from the ground to the transit
telescope is 1.70 meters. Determine the height of the tower.

Fig 19-9

2. Determine the included taper angle,  T, of the shaft shown in figure 19-10

Fig. 19-10
3. Determine the length x of the template shown in figure 19-11

Fig. 19-11
 154
SECTION 4 - TRIGONOMETRY
UNIT 20
LAW OF SINE AND LAW OF COSINES

OBJECTIVE:
After studying this lesson the cadets should be able to:

• Compute unknown angles and sides of oblique triangles using the Law of Sines.
• Compute unknown angles and sides of oblique triangles using the Law of Cosines
• Solve applied problems by using principles of right and oblique triangles.

20.1 SOLVING OBLIQUE TRIANGLES

An oblique triangle is a triangle that does not have a right angle. An oblique triangle may be
either acute or obtuse. In an acute triangle , each of the three angle is acute or less than 900.
In an obtuse triangle, one of the angles is obtuse or greater than 900.
Angles and sides must be computed in practical problems which involve oblique triangles.
These problem can be solved as a series of right triangles, but the process is time
consuming.
Two formulas, called the Law of Sines and the Law of Cosines, are used to simplify oblique
triangle computations. In order to use either formula, three parts of an oblique triangle must
be known and at least one part must be a side.

20.2 LAW OF SINES

In any triangle the sides of the triangle are proportional to the Sines of their opposite
angles.
In reference to the triangle shown in figure 20-1.

a b c
= =
sin A sin B sin C

Fig. 20-`1
Unit 20 - Law of Sines and Law of Cosines 155
The Law of Sines is used to solve two kinds of oblique triangle problems.

• Problems where any two angles and any side of an oblique triangle are known.
• Problems where any two sides and an angle opposite one of the given sides of an
oblique triangle are known.
Note: Since an angle of an oblique triangle may be greater than 900. You must often
determine the sine of an angle greater than 900 and less than 1800. Recall that the
angle lies in Quadrant 11 of the Cartesian Coordinate System. The sine of an
angle between 900 and 1800 equals the sine of the supplement of the angle. For
example, the sine of 1200 40’ = sin (1800 - 1200 40’) = sin 590 20’ = 0.860 15.

20. 3 SOLVING PROBLEMS GIVEN TWO ANGLES AND A SIDE

USING THE LAW OF SINES

Example: Given two angles and side, determine side x

of the oblique triangle shown in figure 20-2

Since side x is opposite the 390 angle and the 5.700

inch side is opposite the 620 angle, the proportion is
x 5.700
set up as: = Fig. 20-2
sin 390 sin 620
Look up sines of 390 and 620 and solve:
x 5.700
=
0.629 32 0.882 95

0.882 95x = 3.587 12

x = 4.063 in Ans

20.4 SOLVING PROBLEMS GIVEN TWO SIDES AND AN ANGLE OPPOSITE

ONE OF THE GIVEN SIDES USING THE LAW OF SINES

Example: Given two sides and an angle opposite one of the given sides, determine A,
C, and side c of the oblique triangle shown in figure 20-3
Unit 20 - Law of Sines and Law of Cosines 154
Example: Given two sides and an angle opposite one of the given sides, determine A,
C, and side c of the oblique triangle shown in figure 20-3
The 7.100-inch side opposite the 610 50’ angle is larger
than the 5.800-inch side, therefore there is only one
solution.
Solve for A:
5.800 7.100
=
sin A sin 610 50’
5.800 7.100
=
sin A 0.881 58
7.100 sin A = 5.113 16

sin A = 0.720 16
A = 460 4’ Ans
Fig. 20-3
Solve for C:

C = 1800 - (610 50’ + 460 4’ ) = 720 6’

Solve for c :
c 7.100
=
sin 72 6’
0 sin 610 50’

c 7.100
=
0.951 59 0.881 58

0.881 58c = 6.756 29

c = 7.664 in Ans
Unit 20 - Law of Sines and Law of Cosines 156
20.5 LAW OF COSINES (GIVEN TWO SIDES AND THE INCLUDED ANGLE)

In any triangle, the square of any side is equal to the sum of the squares of the other
two sides minus twice the product of these two sides multiplied by the cosine of their
included angle.

In reference to the triangle shown in figure 20-4.

a2 = b2 + c2 - 2 bc (cos A)

b2 = a2 + c2 - 2 ac (cos B)

c2 = a2 + b2 - 2 ab (cos C)

Fig. 20-4

The law of Cosine is used to solve this kind of oblique triangle problem.

• Problems where two sides and the included angle of an oblique triangle are known.

Note: An angle of an oblique triangle may be greater than 900 . Therefore, you must
often determine the cosine of an angle greater than 900 and less than 1800 . These
angles lie in Quadrant 11 of the Cartesian Coordinate System. Recall that the
cosine of an angle between 900 and 1800 equals the negative (-) cosine of the
supplement of the angle.

For example, the cosine of 1180 10’ = - cos (1800 and 1180 10’)
= - cos 610 50’
= - 0.472 04.
20.6 SOLVING PROBLEMS GIVEN SIDES AND THE INCLUDED ANGLE
USING THE LAW OF COSINES

Example: Given two sides and the included angle, determine the side x of the oblique
triangle shown in figure 20-5. Observe that 34.60 is included between the 8.700
cm and 9.100 cm sides.

Fig. 20-5
Unit 20 - Law of Sines and Law of Cosines 157
Substitute the given values in their appropriate places in the formula and solve for side x:

x2 = 8.7002 + 9.1002 - 2(8.700)(9.100)(cos 34.60)

x2 = 75.690 + 82.810 - 2(8.700)(9.100)(0.823 1)
x2 = 158.500 - 130.330
x2 = 28.170
x = 5.308 Ans

20.7 LAW OF COSINE (GIVEN THREE SIDES)

In any triangle, the cosine of an angle is equal to the sum of the squares of the two
adjacent sides minus the square of the opposite side, divide by twice the product of
the two adjacent sides.

In reference to the triangle shown in figure 20-6.

cos A = b + c - a
2 2 2

2bc

cos B = a2 + c2 - b2
2ac

a2 + b2 - c2 Fig. 20-6
cos C =
2ab
The Law of Cosine is used to solve this kind of oblique triangle problem.
• Problems where three sides of an oblique triangle are known.
Note: When solving for an unknown angle, the cosine function of the angle may be a
negative value. A negative cosine function means that the angle being computed is
greater than 900. Look up the positive cosine function in the trigonometric function
table and find its corresponding angle. The angle to be determine is equal to the
supplement of the angle found in the table. For example, if the cosine of an angle is
computed as - 0.844 95, look up the cosine of 0.844 95. The corresponding angle is
320 20’. Compute the supplement of 320 20’: 1800 - 320 20’ = 1470 40’. The
angle whose cosine is - 0.844 95 is 1470 40’.
Unit 20 - Law of Sines and Law of Cosines 158
20.8 SOLVING PROBLEMS GIVEN THREE SIDES USING THE LAW
OF COSINE

Example: Given three sides, determine  A of the oblique triangle shown in figure 22.7.

6.4002 + 7.8002 - 4.7002

cos  A =
2 (6.400)(7.800)

40.960 + 60.840 - 22.090

cos  A =
99.840

79.710
cos  A =
99.840 Fig. 22-7
 A = 370 1’ Ans.

20.9 PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS OF OBLIQUE TRIGONOMETRY

The oblique triangle examples and problems which have been presented were not given as
practical applied problems. They were intended to develop skills in applying proper
procedures in solving angles and sides of triangle using the Law of Sines and the Law of
Cosines.
The practical applications of oblique triangles are now presented. Often problems are not
given directly in the form of oblique triangles. As with right triangle problems, oblique
triangle problem may be given in word form or in picture form where an oblique triangle
does not appear.
When solving an oblique triangle problem stated in word form, sketch and label a triangle
using the given values. When solving an oblique triangle problem where an oblique triangle
is not directly given, it may be necessary to project auxiliary lines to form triangles. In
addition, oblique triangle problems sometimes require a combination of right triangles and
oblique triangles in the solution.

These examples illustrate the methods of solving practical word type and picture type
problem.
Unit 20 - Law of Sines and Law of Cosines 159
Example 1 A metal frame in the shape of an oblique triangle is to be fabricated. One side of
the frame is 2.40 meters long. One end of the second side which is 1.80 meters
long is to be fastened to an end of the 2.4 meter side at an angle of 580. Compute
the required length of the third side of the frame.

Solution: Sketch and label an oblique triangle as shown

in figure 20-8. Let c represent the third side.

Compute side c:
Two sides and the included angle are known. Apply the
Law of Cosine.

c2 = 1.802 + 2.402 - 2(1.80)(2.40)(cos 580)

Fig. 20-8
c2 = 3.24 + 5.76 - 2(1.80)(2.40)(0.529 9)

c2 = 9.00 - 4.578 c2 = 4.42 c = 2.10 m Ans.

Example 2 A piece of land is measured off as shown in figure 20-9. Sides AB and DC
are parallel. Compute  A.
Solution: Angle A is computed by forming an oblique
triangle which contains  A. Refer to figure
20-10
Project line segment DE parallel to side BC. Oblique
triangle AED is formed.
In triangle AED, AD = 87 m, ED = BC = 72 m
(EDCB is a parallelogram) Fig. 20-9
EB = DC = 65 m
AE = 96 m - 65 m = 31 m
Solve for  A: Three sides of triangle AED are known.
Apply the Law of Cosines.
872 + 312 - 722
cos  A =
2(87)(31)
cos  A = 0.620 3 Fig. 20-10

 A = 51.660 Ans.
Unit 20 - Law of Sines and Law of Cosines 160
SOLVING PROBLEM

1. Given two angles and side, determine  A, side a, and side b of the oblique triangle
shown in figure 20-11.

Fig. 20-11
2. Given two sides and the included angle, determine side a,  B, and  C of the oblique
triangle shown in figure 20-12.

Fig. 20-12

3. Given three sides, determine  P of the oblique triangle shown in figure 22-13.

Fig. 20-13
Unit 20- Law of Sines and Law of Cosines 161
SOLVING PROBLEM

4. Given three sides, determine  A,  B,  C, of the oblique triangle shown in

figure 20-14.

Fig. 20-14

5. A surveyor wishes to measure the distance between two horizontal points. The two
points, A and B, are separated by a pond and the distance cannot be directly measured.
Determine the distance between point A and point B shown in figure 20-15.

Fig. 20-15