TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS Expressions (Page 1 of 8)

Many problems in trigonometry require calculating the value of expressions that involve trigonometric functions. For example, solving right triangles, applying the Law of Sines or Law of Cosines, or problems involving vectors. We will calculate a few sample expressions of the nature you may encounter with such problems.

As a first example, suppose we know the following about right triangle ABC: A = 29° 23', C = 90° and a = 4.032 meters (the side opposite angle A). We can find B by subtracting A from C. Since the angles are given in degree measure, be sure the calculator is set to Degree mode. Remember to add the DMS command when calculating angle B.

 MODE key. [Degree] ENTER key.
 2nd QUIT key. CLEAR key.

 90 Minus key. 29 2nd ANGLE key. 1: menu selection. 23 2nd ANGLE key. 2: menu selection. 2nd ANGLE key. 4: menu selection. ENTER key.

 Calculator screen image. Calculator screen image.
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