CHAPTER

4 Trigonometry
and the
Unit Circle
Have you ever wondered about the repeating
patterns that occur around us? Repeating patterns
occur in sound, light, tides, time, and molecular
motion. To analyse these repeating, cyclical
patterns, you need to move from using ratios in
triangles to using circular functions to approach
trigonometry.

In this chapter, you will learn how to model and

solve trigonometric problems using the unit circle
and circular functions of radian measures.

Did Yo u Know ?

The flower in the photograph is called the Trigonometry daffodil.

Why do you think this name was chosen?

Key Terms
radian cosecant
coterminal angles secant
general form cotangent
unit circle trigonometric equation

164 MHR • Chapter 4

 Career Link
Engineers, police investigators, and legal
experts all play key roles following a serious
collision. Investigating and analysing a
motor vehicle collision can provide valuable
evidence for police and insurance reports.
You can be trained in this fascinating
and important field at police schools,
engineering departments, and technical
institutes.

We b Link
To learn
earn more about
ab accident reconstruction and
training to become a forensic analysis investigator,
go to www.mcgrawhill.ca/school/learningcentres and
follow the links.

Chapter 4 • MHR 165

 4.1
Angles and Angle
Measure
Focus on . . .
• sketching angles in standard position measured in
degrees and radians
• converting angles in degree measure to radian
measure and vice versa
• determining the measures of angles that are
coterminal with a given angle
• solving problems involving arc lengths, central
angles, and the radius in a circle

Angles can be measured using different units, such as revolutions,

degrees, radians, and gradians. Which of these units are you familiar
with? Check how many of these units are on your calculator.
Angles are everywhere and can be found in unexpected places. How
many different angles can you see in the structure of the racing car?

Did Yo u Know ?

Sound (undamaged) hooves of all horses share certain

angle aspects determined by anatomy and the laws of
physics. A front hoof normally exhibits a 30° hairline and
a 49° toe angle, while a hind hoof has a 30° hairline and
a 55° toe angle. 49° 30° 30° 55°

Investigate Angle Measure

Materials Work in small groups.

• masking tape 1. Mark the centre of a circle on the floor with sidewalk chalk. Then,
• sidewalk chalk using a piece of string greater than 1 m long for the radius, outline
• string the circle with chalk or pieces of masking tape.
• measuring tape
2. Label the centre of the circle O. Choose any point A on the
circumference of the circle. OA is the radius of the circle. Have
one member of your group walk heel-to-toe along the radius,
counting foot lengths. Then, have the same person count the same
number of foot lengths moving counterclockwise from A along the
circumference. Label the endpoint B. Use tape to make the radii AO
and BO. Have another member of the group confirm that the radius
AO is the same length as arc AB.

166 MHR • Chapter 4

 3. Determine, by walking round the circle from B, approximately
how many times the length of the radius fits onto the
circumference.
B

O A

Reflect and Respond

4. Use your knowledge of circumference to show that your answer
in step 3 is reasonable.
5. Is ∠AOB in step 3 greater than, equal to, or less than 60°?
Discuss this with your group.
6. Determine the degree measure of ∠AOB, to the nearest tenth of
a degree.
7. Compare your results with those of other groups. Does the
central angle AOB maintain its size if you use a larger circle?
a smaller circle?

Link the Ideas

In the investigation, you encountered several key points associated

with angle measure.
By convention, angles measured in a counterclockwise direction
are said to be positive. Those measured in a clockwise direction
are negative. radian
• one radian is the
The angle AOB that you created measures 1 radian. measure of the central
angle subtended in a
One full rotation is 360° or 2π radians.
circle by an arc equal in
One half rotation is 180° or π radians. length to the radius of
the circle
π radians.
One quarter rotation is 90° or _ • 2π = 360°
2 = 1 full rotation (or
One eighth rotation is 45° or π
_ radians. revolution)
4 B
Many mathematicians omit units for radian measures. For
r r
example, _2π radians may be written as _ 2π . Angle measures
3 3 1
0 A
without units are considered to be in radians. r

4.1 Angles and Angle Measure • MHR 167

 Example 1
Convert Between Degree and Radian Measure
Draw each angle in standard position. Change each degree measure
to radian measure and each radian measure to degree measure. Give
answers as both exact and approximate measures (if necessary) to the
nearest hundredth of a unit.
a) 30° b) -120°
5π
c) _ d) 2.57
4

Solution
a) y

terminal An angle in standard position has its

arm centre at the origin and its initial arm
30° along the positive x-axis.
0 x
In which direction are positive angles
measured?

Unitary Method
360° = 2π
1° = _2π
360
=_ π
180
π
30° = 30 _ (
180 )
=_π π
_
is an exact value.
6 6
≈ 0.52

b) y

Why is the angle drawn using a

0 x clockwise rotation?
-120°

Proportion Method
180° = π
-120° = _
__ x
180° π
-120π
x = __
180
= -_2π
3
≈ -2.09
2π or approximately -2.09.
So, -120° is equivalent to - _
3

168 MHR • Chapter 4

 1
c) π is _ rotation. y
2
π is _
_ 1 rotation.
4 8 5π
__
5π terminates in 4
So _
4 0 x
the third quadrant.

Unit Analysis
5π =
_
4 (_
5π _ 180°
4 )( π )
180°
Why does _π ( )
have value 1?

5(180°)
= __
4
= 225°
5π
_
4 is equivalent to 225°.
1
d) π (approximately 3.14) is _ rotation. y
2
π (approximately 1.57) is _
_ 1 rotation.
2 4 2.57
2.57 is between 1.57 and 3.14,
so it terminates in the second quadrant. 0 x

Unitary Method Proportion Method Unit Analysis

π = 180° _x =_ 180° 2.57
2.57 π
180° 180°
1=_ π 180°
x = 2.57 _ ( )
= 2.57 _ (
π )
2.57 π 462.6°
462.6°
__ = __ π
180° x= π
= 2.57 _ (
π ) ≈ 147.25°
462.6°
__
= π x ≈ 147.25°

≈ 147.25°
462.6° or approximately 147.25°.
2.57 is equivalent to __π

Your Turn D i d You K n ow?

Draw each angle in standard position. Change each degree measure to Most scientific and
radians and each radian measure to degrees. Give answers as both exact graphing calculators
can calculate using
and approximate measures (if necessary) to the nearest hundredth of
angle measures in
a unit. both degrees and
a) -270° b) 150° radians. Find out how
7π to change the mode
c) _ d) -1.2 on your calculator.
6

4.1 Angles and Angle Measure • MHR 169

 Coterminal Angles
When you sketch an angle of 60° and an angle of 420° in standard
coterminal angles position, the terminal arms coincide. These are coterminal angles.
• angles in standard y
position with the same
terminal arms
• may be measured in
60°
degrees or radians
π 9π 0 x
• _ and _ are 420°
4 4
coterminal angles, as
are 40° and -320°

Example 2
Identify Coterminal Angles
Determine one positive and one negative angle measure that is
coterminal with each angle. In which quadrant does the terminal arm lie?
8π
a) 40° b) -430° c) _
3
Solution
a) The terminal arm is in quadrant I.
To locate coterminal angles, begin on the terminal arm of the given
angle and rotate in a positive or negative direction until the new
terminal arm coincides with that of the original angle.
y y

40° 40°
0 x 0 x

40° + 360° = 400° 40° + (-360°) = -320°

Two angles coterminal with 40° are 400° and -320°. What other answers
are possible?
b) The terminal arm of -430° is in quadrant IV.
y y

-430°

0 x 0 x
-430°

-430° + 360° = -70° -430° + 720° = 290° The reference angle

Two angles coterminal with -430° are 290° and -70°. is 70°.

170 MHR • Chapter 4

c) y
8π
__
3 6π + _
8π = _ 2π
_
3 3 3

0 x So, the angle is one full

2π
rotation (2π) plus _ .
3

The terminal arm is in quadrant II.

6π in one full rotation.
There are 2π or _
3
Counterclockwise one full rotation: _ 8π + _6π = _ 14π
3 3 3
Clockwise one full rotation: 8π
_ - 6π
_ = 2π
_
3 3 3
Clockwise two full rotations: 8π
_ - 12π
_ = -_ 4π
3 3 3
Two angles coterminal with 8π
_ are 2π
_ and - _ 4π .
3 3 3
Your Turn
For each angle in standard position, determine one positive and
one negative angle measure that is coterminal with it.
a) 270°
5π
b) - _ c) 740°
4

Coterminal Angles in General Form

By adding or subtracting multiples of one full rotation, you can write an
infinite number of angles that are coterminal with any given angle.
For example, some angles that are coterminal with 40° are
40° + (360°)(1) = 400° 40° - (360°)(1) = -320°
40° + (360°)(2) = 760° 40° - (360°)(2) = -680°
In general, the angles coterminal with 40° are 40° ± (360°)n, where
n is any natural number.
2π are
Some angles coterminal with _
3
2π 2π
_ + 2π(1) = _ + _ 6π 2π - 2π(1) = _
_ 2π - _6π
3 3 3 3 3 3
= 8π
_ =- 4π
_
3 3
2π 2π
_ + 2π(2) = _ + _ 12π 2π 2π
_ - 2π(2) = _ - _ 12π
3 3 3 3 3 3
=_14π = -_10π
3 3
2π are _
In general, the angles coterminal with _ 2π ± 2πn, where n is
3 3
any natural number.

4.1 Angles and Angle Measure • MHR 171

 Any given angle has an infinite number of angles coterminal with it,
since each time you make one full rotation from the terminal arm,
you arrive back at the same terminal arm. Angles coterminal with any
angle θ can be described using the expression
θ ± (360°)n or θ ± 2πn,
where n is a natural number. This way of expressing an answer is
general form called the general form.
• an expression
containing parameters
that can be given
specific values to
generate any answer Example 3
that satisfies the given
information or situation
Express Coterminal Angles in General Form
• represents all possible a) Express the angles coterminal with 110° in general form. Identify the
cases
angles coterminal with 110° that satisfy the domain -720° ≤ θ < 720°.
8π
b) Express the angles coterminal with _ in general form. Identify the
3
angles coterminal with _8π in the domain -4π ≤ θ < 4π.
3
Solution
a) Angles coterminal with 110° occur at 110° ± (360°)n, n ∈ N.

Substitute values for n to determine these angles.

n 1 2 3
110° - (360°)n -250° -610° -970°
110° + (360°)n 470° 830° 1190°

From the table, the values that satisfy the domain -720° ≤ θ < 720°
are -610°, -250°, and 470°. These angles are coterminal.
8π 8π
b) _ ± 2πn, n ∈ N, represents all angles coterminal with _ .
3 3
Substitute values for n to determine these angles.

n 1 2 3 4
8π
_ 2π
_ 4π 10π 16π
- 2πn -_ -_ -_
3 3 3 3 3
8π
_ 14π
_ 20π
_ 26π
_ 32π
_
+ 2πn
3 3 3 3 3

The angles in the domain -4π ≤ θ < 4π that are 16π not an
Why is - _
10π , - _ 2π .
4π , and _ 3
coterminal are - _ acceptable answer?
3 3 3

Your Turn
Write an expression for all possible angles coterminal with each
given angle. Identify the angles that are coterminal that satisfy
-360° ≤ θ < 360° or -2π ≤ θ < 2π.
9π
a) -500° b) 650° c) _
4

172 MHR • Chapter 4

Arc Length of a Circle
π have the same central angle, but
All arcs that subtend a right angle _( )
2
they have different arc lengths depending on the radius of the circle. The
arc length is proportional to the radius. This is true for any central angle
and related arc length.
Consider two concentric circles with centre O.
The radius of the smaller circle is 1, and the r
radius of the larger circle is r. A central angle of
1 B D
θ radians is subtended by arc AB on the smaller O θ x
circle and arc CD on the larger one. You can a
write the following proportion, where x A

represents the arc length of the smaller circle C

and a is the arc length of the larger circle.

a=_
_ r
x 1
a = xr q
Consider the circle with radius 1 and the sector with central angle θ.
The ratio of the arc length to the circumference is equal to the ratio of
the central angle to one full rotation.
_ x =_ θ Why is r = 1?
2πr 2π
x= _( )
θ 2π(1)
2π
x=θ
Substitute x = θ in q.
a = θr
This formula, a = θr, works for any circle, provided that θ is measured
in radians and both a and r are measured in the same units.

Example 4
Determine Arc Length in a Circle
Rosemarie is taking a course in industrial engineering. For an
assignment, she is designing the interface of a DVD player. In her
plan, she includes a decorative arc below the on/off button. The arc
has central angle 130° in a circle with radius 6.7 mm. Determine the
length of the arc, to the nearest tenth of a millimetre.

6.7 mm

130°

4.1 Angles and Angle Measure • MHR 173

 Solution
Method 1: Convert to Radians and Use the Formula a = θr
Convert the measure of the central angle to radians before using
the formula a = θr, where a is the arc length; θ is the central angle,
in radians; and r is the length of the radius.
180° = π
1° = _π
180
π
130° = 130 _
180( )
=_ 13π
18
a = θr
13π (6.7)
(
= _
18 ) Why is it important to use exact
values throughout the calculation
= 87.1π
__ and only convert to decimal
18 fractions at the end?
= 15.201…
The arc length is 15.2 mm, to the nearest tenth of a millimetre.

Method 2: Use a Proportion

Let a represent the arc length.
arc length
___ central angle
= ___ 6.7 mm
circumference full rotation
a
__ 130°
=_ 130°
2π(6.7) 360°
2π(6.7)130°
a = ___
360° a
= 15.201…
The arc length is 15.2 mm, to the nearest tenth of a millimetre.

Your Turn
If a represents the length of an arc of a circle with radius r, subtended by
a central angle of θ, determine the missing quantity. Give your answers to
the nearest tenth of a unit.
a) r = 8.7 cm, θ = 75°, a =  cm
b) r =  mm, θ = 1.8, a = 4.7 mm
c) r = 5 m, a = 13 m, θ = 

174 MHR • Chapter 4

 Key Ideas

Angles can be measured using different units, including degrees and radians.
An angle measured in one unit can be converted to the other unit using the
relationships 1 full rotation = 360° = 2π.
An angle in standard position has its vertex at the origin and its initial
arm along the positive x-axis.
Angles that are coterminal have the same initial arm and the same
terminal arm.
An angle θ has an infinite number of angles that are coterminal expressed
by θ ± (360°)n, n ∈ N, in degrees, or θ ± 2πn, n ∈ N, in radians.
The formula a = θr, where a is the arc length; θ is the central angle, in
radians; and r is the length of the radius, can be used to determine any of
the variables given the other two, as long as a and r are in the same units.

Check Your Understanding

Practise 4. Convert each radian measure to degrees.

1. For each angle, indicate whether the Express your answers as exact values and
direction of rotation is clockwise or as approximate measures, to the nearest
counterclockwise. tenth of a degree, if necessary.
π 2π
a) -4π b) 750° a) _ b) _
6 3
c) -38.7° d) 1 c) - _
3π 5π
d) - _
8 2
2. Convert each degree measure to radians. e) 1 f) 2.75
Write your answers as exact values.
5. Convert each radian measure to degrees.
Sketch the angle and label it in degrees
Express your answers as exact values and
and in radians.
as approximate measures, to the nearest
a) 30° b) 45° thousandth.
c) -330° d) 520° 2π 7π
a) _ b) _
7 13
e) 90° f) 21°
c) _
2 d) 3.66
3. Convert each degree measure to radians. 3
Express your answers as exact values and e) -6.14 f) -20
as approximate measures, to the nearest 6. Sketch each angle in standard position. In
hundredth of a radian. which quadrant does each angle terminate?
a) 60° b) 150° a) 1 b) -225°
c) -270° d) 72° 17π
c) _ d) 650°
6
e) -14.8° f) 540°
2π
e) - _ f) -42°
3

4.1 Angles and Angle Measure • MHR 175

 7. Determine one positive and one negative 13. Use the information in each diagram to
angle coterminal with each angle. determine the value of the variable. Give
3π your answers to the nearest hundredth of
a) 72° b) _
4 a unit.
c) -120° d)
11π
_
a) 9 cm
2
e) -205° f) 7.8
θ
4 cm
8. Determine whether the angles in each pair
are coterminal. For one pair of angles,
explain how you know.
5π 17π 5π 9π
a) _ , _ b) _ , - _
6 6 2 2 b)
c) 410°, -410° d) 227°, -493°
9. Write an expression for all of the angles 1.22 a
coterminal with each angle. Indicate what
9 ft
your variable represents.
a) 135° b) - _
π
2
c) 15 cm
c) -200° d) 10
10. Draw and label an angle in standard
position with negative measure. Then, 3.93

determine an angle with positive measure r

that is coterminal with your original angle.
Show how to use a general expression for
coterminal angles to find the second angle. d) a

11. For each angle, determine all angles that 140°

are coterminal in the given domain. 7m

a) 65°, 0° ≤ θ < 720°

b) -40°, -180° ≤ θ < 360°
c) -40°, -720° ≤ θ < 720°
3π
d) _ , -2π ≤ θ < 2π Apply
4
11π 14. A rotating water sprinkler makes one
e) - _ , -4π ≤ θ < 4π
6 revolution every 15 s. The water reaches a
f)
7π
_ , -2π ≤ θ < 4π distance of 5 m from the sprinkler.
3
a) What is the arc length of the sector
g) 2.4, -2π ≤ θ < 2π
watered when the sprinkler rotates
h) -7.2, -4π ≤ θ < 2π 5π ? Give your answer as both
through _
12. Determine the arc length subtended by 3
an exact value and an approximate
each central angle. Give answers to the
measure, to the nearest hundredth.
nearest hundredth of a unit.
b) Show how you could find the area of
a) radius 9.5 cm, central angle 1.4
the sector watered in part a).
b) radius 1.37 m, central angle 3.5
c) What angle does the sprinkler rotate
c) radius 7 cm, central angle 130° through in 2 min? Express your answer
d) radius 6.25 in., central angle 282° in radians and degrees.

176 MHR • Chapter 4

15. Angular velocity describes the rate of 17. Copy and complete the table by
change in a central angle over time. For converting each angle measure to its
example, the change could be expressed in equivalent in the other systems. Round
revolutions per minute (rpm), radians per your answers to the nearest tenth
second, degrees per hour, and so on. All where necessary.
that is required is an angle measurement Revolutions Degrees Radians
expressed over a unit of time.
a) 1 rev
a) Earth makes one revolution every 24 h.
b) 270°
Express the angular velocity of Earth in
5π
_
three other ways. c) 6
b) An electric motor rotates at 1000 rpm. d) -1.7
What is this angular velocity expressed
e) -40°
in radians per second?
f) 0.7 rev
c) A bicycle wheel completes
g) -3.25 rev
10 revolutions every 4 s. Express this
angular velocity in degrees per minute. h) 460°
3π
-_
16. Skytrek Adventure Park in Revelstoke, i) 8
British Columbia, has a sky swing. Can
you imagine a 170-ft flight that takes riders 18. Joran and Jasmine are discussing
through a scary pendulum swing? At one expressions for the general form of
point you are soaring less than 10 ft from coterminal angles of 78°. Joran claims
the ground at speeds exceeding 60 mph. the answer must be expressed as
a) The length of the cable is 72 ft and you 78° + (360°)n, n ∈ I. Jasmine indicates
travel on an arc of length 170 ft on one that although Joran’s expression is correct,
particular swing. What is the measure another answer is possible. She prefers
of the central angle? Give your answer 78° ± k(360°), k ∈ N, where N represents
in radians, to the nearest hundredth. positive integers. Who is correct? Why?
b) What is the measure of the central angle 19. The gradian (grad) is another unit of
from part a), to the nearest tenth of angle measure. It is defined as _ 1 of a
400
a degree?
revolution, so one full rotation contains
400 grads.
a) Determine the number of gradians
in 50°.
b) Describe a process for converting
from degree measure to gradians and
vice versa.
c) Identify a possible reason that the
gradian was created.

D i d You K n ow ?

Gradians originated in France in the 1800s. They are

still used in some engineering work.

4.1 Angles and Angle Measure • MHR 177

20. Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, and 21. Sam Whittingham from Quadra Island,
Crowsnest Pass, Alberta, lie along the British Columbia, holds five 2009 world
114° W line of longitude. The latitude of human-powered speed records on his
Yellowknife is 62.45° N and the latitude recumbent bicycle. In the 200-m flying
of Crowsnest Pass is 49.63° N. Consider start, he achieved a speed of 133.284 km/h.
Earth to be a sphere with radius a) Express the speed in metres per minute.
6400 km.
b) The diameter of his bicycle wheel is
a) Sketch the information given above 60 cm. Through how many radians per
using a circle. Label the centre of minute must the wheels turn to achieve
Earth, its radius to the equator, and his world record in the 200-m flying start?
the locations of Yellowknife and
Crowsnest Pass.
b) Determine the distance between
Yellowknife and Crowsnest Pass.
Give your answer to the nearest
hundredth of a kilometre.
c) Choose a town or city either where
you live or nearby. Determine
the latitude and longitude of this
location. Find another town or city 22. A water wheel with diameter 3 m is used
with the same longitude. What is the to measure the approximate speed of the
distance between the two places? water in a river. If the angular velocity of
the wheel is 15 rpm, what is the speed of
D id Yo u Know ?
the river, in kilometres per hour?
Lines of latitude and longitude locate places on 23. Earth is approximately 93 000 000 mi from
Earth. Lines of latitude are parallel to the equator
the sun. It revolves around the sun, in an
and are labelled from 0° at the equator to 90° at
the North Pole. Lines of longitude converge at the almost circular orbit, in about 365 days.
poles and are widest apart at the equator. 0° passes Calculate the linear speed, in miles per
through Greenwich, England, and the lines are hour, of Earth in its orbit. Give your
numbered up to 180° E and 180° W, meeting at the
International Date Line. answer to the nearest hundredth.

North Pole, International Date Line,

latitude 90° N longitude 180° W Extend
and 180° E 24. Refer to the Did You Know? below.
a) With a partner, show how to convert
longitude 0° 69.375° to 69° 22 30 .
b) Change the following angles into
degrees-minutes-seconds.
i) 40.875° ii) 100.126°
equator,
latitude 0° iii) 14.565° iv) 80.385°

45° W 45° E D i d You K n ow ?

South Pole, You have expressed degree measures as decimal

latitude 90° S numbers, for example, 69.375°. Another way
subdivides 1° into 60 parts called minutes. Each
minute can be subdivided into 60 parts called
seconds. Then, an angle such as 69.375° can be
written as 69° 22 min 30 s or 69° 22 30 .

178 MHR • Chapter 4

25. a) Reverse the process of question 24 and Create Connections
show how to convert 69° 22 30 to
C1 Draw a diagram and use it to help explain
69.375°. Hint: Convert 30 into a decimal
whether 6 radians is greater than, equal to,
fraction part of a minute. Combine this
or less than 360°.
part of a minute with the 22 and then
convert the minutes to part of a degree. C2 In mathematics, angle measures are
commonly defined in degrees or radians.
b) Change each angle measure into degrees,
Describe the difference between 1° and
rounded to the nearest thousandth.
1 radian. Use drawings to support your
i) 45° 30 30 answer.
ii) 72° 15 45 C3 The following angles are in standard
iii) 105° 40 15 position. What is the measure of the
iv) 28° 10 reference angle for each? Write an
expression for all coterminal angles
26. A segment of a circle
A associated with each given angle.
is the region between
a chord and the arc θ B a) 860°
subtended by r b) -7 (give the reference angle to the
that chord. Consider nearest hundredth)
chord AB subtended C4 a) Make a circle diagram similar to the
by central angle θ in one shown. On the outside of the
a circle with radius r. circle, label all multiples of 45° in the
Derive a formula using r and θ for the area domain 0° ≤ θ < 360°. Show the radian
of the segment subtended by θ. equivalent as an exact value inside
27. The hour hand of an analog clock moves in the circle.
proportion to the movement of the minute
hand. This means that at 4:05, the hour
hand will have moved beyond the 4 by _ 5
60
of the distance it would move in an hour.
a) What is the measure of the obtuse angle
between the hands of a clock at 4:00?
Give your answer in degrees.
b) What is the measure, in degrees, of the
acute angle between the hands of a b) Make another circle diagram. This time,
clock at 4:10? mark and label all the multiples of 30°
c) At certain times, the hands of a clock in the domain 0° ≤ θ < 360°. Again,
are at right angles to each other. What show the degree values outside the
are two of these times? circle and the exact radian equivalents
d) At how many different times does the inside the circle.
angle between the hands of a clock C5 A line passes through the point (3, 0). Find
measure 90° between 4:00 and 5:00? the equation of the line if the angle formed
e) Does one of the times occur before, at, between the line and the positive x-axis is
or shortly after 4:05? Explain. π
a) _ b) 45°
2

4.1 Angles and Angle Measure • MHR 179

 4.2
The Unit Circle
Focus on . . .
• developing and applying the equation of the unit circle
• generalizing the equation of a circle with centre (0, 0) and radius r
• using symmetry and patterns to locate the coordinates of points
on the unit circle

A gauge is a measuring tool that is used in many different

situations. There are two basic types of gauges—radial
(circular) and linear. What gauges can you think of that
are linear? What gauges are you familiar with that are
circular? How are linear and circular gauges similar, and
how do they differ?
Have you ever wondered why some phenomena, such
as tides and hours of daylight, are so predictable? It is
because they have repetitive or cyclical patterns. Why is
sin 30° the same as sin 150°? Why is cos 60° = sin 150°?
How do the coordinates of a point on a circle of radius
1 unit change every quarter-rotation?

Investigate Circular Number Lines

Materials 1. Select a can or other cylinder. Cut a strip of paper about 1.5 cm wide
• paper and the same length as the circumference of the cylinder.
• scissors 2. Create a number line by drawing a line along the centre of the strip.
• tape Label the left end of the line 0 and the right end 2π. According to
• can or other cylinder this labelling, how long is the number line?
• straight edge 3. Divide the number line into eight equal subdivisions. What value
• compass would you use to label the point midway between 0 and 2π? What
value would you use to label halfway between 0 and the middle
of the number line? Continue until all seven points that subdivide
the number line are labelled. Write all values in terms of π. Express
fractional values in lowest terms.
4. Tape the number line around the bottom of the can, so that the labels
read in a counterclockwise direction.
5. Use the can to draw a circle on a sheet of paper. Locate the centre of
the circle and label it O. Draw coordinate axes through O that extend
beyond the circle. Place the can over the circle diagram so that the
zero of the number line lies above where the circle intersects the
positive x-axis.

180 MHR • Chapter 4

 6. Mark the coordinates of all points where the circle crosses the axes
on your diagram. Label these points as P(θ) = (x, y), where P(θ)
represents a point on the circle that has a central angle θ in standard
position. For example, label the point where the circle crosses the
π = (0, 1).
positive y-axis as P _
2 ( )
7. Now, create a second number line. Label the ends as 0 and 2π. Divide
this number line into 12 equal segments. Label divisions in terms of
π. Express fractional values in lowest terms.

Reflect and Respond

8. Since each number line shows the circumference of the can and the
circle to be 2π units, what assumption is being made about the length
of the radius?
9. a) Two students indicate that the points in step 6 are simply
multiples of _π . Do you agree? Explain.
2
b) In fact, they argue that the values on the original number line are
all multiples of _π . Is this true? Explain.
4
π
( )
10. Show how to determine the coordinates for P _ . Hint: Use your
4
knowledge of the ratios of the side lengths of a 45°-45°-90° triangle.
Mark the coordinates for all the points on the circle that are midway
between the axes. What is the only difference in the coordinates for
these four points? What negative values for θ would generate the
same points on the circle midway between the axes?

Link the Ideas

Unit Circle
The circle you drew in the investigation is a unit circle. unit circle
y • a circle with radius
1 unit
(0, 1) • a circle of radius 1 unit
with centre at the
origin on the Cartesian
plane is known as the
(-1, 0) (1, 0) unit circle
0 x

(0, -1)

4.2 The Unit Circle • MHR 181

 You can find the equation of the unit y
circle using the Pythagorean theorem.
Consider a point P on the unit circle. P(x, y)
1
Let P have coordinates (x, y).
Draw right triangle OPA as shown. 0 A x

OP = 1 The radius of the unit circle is 1.

PA = |y| The absolute value of the y-coordinate represents
the distance from a point to the x-axis.
OA = |x| Why is this true?
(OP)2 = (OA)2 + (PA)2 Pythagorean theorem
12 = |x|2 + |y|2 How would the equation for a circle with centre
1 = x2 + y 2 O(0, 0) differ if the radius were r rather than 1?

The equation of the unit circle is x2 + y 2 = 1.

Example 1
Equation of a Circle Centred at the Origin
Determine the equation of the circle y
with centre at the origin and radius 2.
P(x, y)
Solution 2

Choose a point, P, on the circle with 0 A x

coordinates (x, y).
The radius of the circle is 2, and a vertical
line from the y-coordinate to the x-axis forms
a right angle with the axis. This means you
can use the Pythagorean theorem.
|x|2 + |y|2 = 22
x2 + y 2 = 4
Since this is true for every point P on the circle, the equation
of the circle is x2 + y 2 = 4.

Your Turn
Determine the equation of a circle with centre at the origin and
radius 6.

182 MHR • Chapter 4

Example 2
Determine Coordinates for Points of the Unit Circle
Determine the coordinates for all points on the unit circle that satisfy
the conditions given. Draw a diagram in each case.
2
a) the x-coordinate is _
3
b) the y-coordinate is - _
1__ and the point is in quadrant III
√2

Solution
a) Coordinates on the unit circle satisfy the equation x2 + y 2 = 1.
2
( _23 ) + y 2
=1 Since x is positive, which quadrants could the points be in?

4 + y2 = 1
_
9
5
y2 = _ y
9 __
√5 Why are there
y = ±_
3 two answers?
1
( 2_3 , y )
Two points satisfy the given
__ 0 x
√5
2, _
conditions: _ in (3 3 ) __
( 2_3 , y )
√5
2 , -_
quadrant I and _ in (3 3 )
quadrant IV.

b) y = - ___ 1 y
√2

y is negative in quadrants III and IV.

But the point is in quadrant III, so x
is also negative.
0 x
x2 + y 2 = 1
1__ 2 = 1
x2 + - _ (
√2 ) ( 1
x, - __ )
1 =1 2
x +_
2
2
x2 = _1
2
x = -_ 1__ Why is there
√2 only one answer?
__ __
The point is (-_1__ , - _
√2 √2 ) (
1__ , or - _ √2
2
,
√2
-_ .
2 )
Your Turn
Determine the missing coordinate(s) for all points on the unit circle
satisfying the given conditions. Draw a diagram and tell which
quadrant(s) the points lie in.
5 , where the point is in quadrant II
a) (- _58 , y) b)
13 )
(x, _

4.2 The Unit Circle • MHR 183

 Relating Arc Length and Angle Measure in Radians
The formula a = θr, where a is the arc length; θ is the central angle, in
radians; and r is the radius, applies to any circle, as long as a and r are
measured in the same units. In the unit circle, the formula becomes
a = θ(1) or a = θ. This means that a central angle and its subtended arc
on the unit circle have the same numerical value.
You can use the function P(θ) = (x, y) to link the arc length, θ, of a
central angle in the unit circle to the coordinates, (x, y), of the point
of intersection of the terminal arm and the unit circle.
If you join P(θ) to the origin, you y
create an angle θ in standard position.
Now, θ radians is the central angle P(θ)
and the arc length is θ units. θ
P(π) = (-1, 0) θ (1, 0)
Function P takes real-number values
0 x
for the central angle or the arc length
on the unit circle and matches them
with specific points. For example, if
θ = π, the point is (-1, 0). Thus, you
can write P(π) = (-1, 0).

Example 3
π
Multiples of _ on the Unit Circle
3
π
a) On a diagram of the unit circle, show the integral multiples of _ in
3
the interval 0 ≤ θ ≤ 2π.
b) What are the coordinates for each point P(θ) in part a)?
c) Identify any patterns you see in the coordinates of the points.

Solution
π
a) This is essentially a counting problem using _ .
3
π in the interval 0 ≤ θ ≤ 2π are
Multiples of _
3
π = 0, 1 _
π =_ 2π , 3 _
π =_
π, 2 _ π = π, 4 _ 4π ,
π =_
(3)
0 _ (3) 3 (3) 3 (3) (3) 3
π
5( ) = 5π π = 2π.
, and 6( _
3)
_ _
3 3
y Why must you show only the multiples in
2π
__
P 3 ( ) ( )
π
_
P 3
one positive rotation in the unit circle?

π
_
P(π) 3 P(0) = (1, 0)
0 x
P(2π)

4π
__
P 3 ( ) ( )
5π
__
P 3

184 MHR • Chapter 4

b) Recall that a 30°-60°-90° triangle has sides in the ratio P
__
__ √3
1 :_
1: √3 : 2 or _ : 1.
2 2 Why is the 30°-60°-90°
triangle used? 30°
Place POA in the unit circle as shown. 1
3
__
y 2
__

π
_
P ( 1 √3
Why are _ , _ the
2 2 ) 60°
3
__ π O A
3 2
coordinates of P _ ?
3 ( ) 1
_
2
(1, 0)
0 _ A
1 x
2

POA could be placed in the second quadrant with O at the origin

__
and OA along the x-axis as shown. This gives P 2π
_
3
= - ,_1 _
2 2
√3
. ( ) ( )
y
Why is the x-coordinate negative?
P
What transformation could be used
3
__
2 1 2π
__ to move POA from quadrant I to
3 quadrant II?

A 0 x
-1
_
2

Continue, placing POA in quadrants III and IV to find the

4π and P _ 5π . Then, the coordinates of
coordinates of P _
3 ( )3 ( )
π are
point P corresponding to angles that are multiples of _
3 __

( ) ( )
π = _ 1, _√3
P(0) = P(2π) = (1, 0) P(π) = (-1, 0) P _
__ __ 3 2 2 __
P( ) (
2π
_
3
= - ,1
_
2 2
√3
_ P 4π
_
3 ) 1
_
= - ,-
2 ( ) (
√3
_
2
P 5π
_
3
= _
2 )
1 , -_ √3
2 ( ) ( )
c) Some patterns are:
• The points corresponding to angles that are multiples of _π that
3
π 2π 4π 5π ,
cannot be simplified, for example, P _
3
,P _
3
,P _
( ) ( ) ( )
3
, and P _
3 ( )
have the same coordinates except for their signs.
• Any points where θ reduces to a multiple of π, for example, P(0),
3π = P(π), and P _ 6π = P(2π), fall on an axis.
P _( )
3 3 ( )
Your Turn
π
a) On a diagram of the unit circle, show all the integral multiples of _ in
6
the interval 0 ≤ θ < 2π.
b) Label the coordinates for each point P(θ) on your diagram.
c) Describe any patterns you see in the coordinates of the points.

4.2 The Unit Circle • MHR 185

 Key Ideas

The equation for the unit circle is x2 + y 2 = 1. It can be used to

determine whether a point is on the unit circle or to determine the value
of one coordinate given the other. The equation for a circle with centre at
(0, 0) and radius r is x2 + y 2 = r 2.
On the unit circle, the measure in radians of the central angle and the arc
subtended by that central angle are numerically equivalent.
Some of the points on the unit circle correspond to exact values of the
special angles learned previously.
You can use patterns to determine coordinates of points. For example,
the numerical value of the coordinates of points on the unit circle change
to their opposite sign every _1 rotation.
2
If P(θ) = (a, b) is in quadrant I, then both a and b are positive. P(θ + π) is
in quadrant III. Its coordinates are (-a, -b), where a > 0 and b > 0.
y y

( )
π
_
P 2
π
_
P 2 ( )
( )
2π
__
( ) ( )
π
_ 1 3
_ __
( )
3π
__
P 4 ( )
π
_ __
P 4 = 2 2 (
1 , __
1
) P 3 P 3 = 2, 2

( ) P( 6 ) = ( 2 , 2 )
5π
__ π
_ 3 1
__ _
P 6

P(π) P(0) P(π) P(0)

0 x 0 x

( )
7π
__
P 6
( )
11π
__
P 6

( )
5π
__
P 4 ( )
7π
__
P 4 ( )
5π
__
P 3
( )
3π
__
P 2 ( )
4π
__
P 3 3π
__
P 2 ( )

Check Your Understanding

Practise 2. Is each point on the unit circle? How do

1. Determine the equation of a circle with you know?
__
centre at the origin and radius
a) 4 units
3 1
(
a) - _ , _
4 4 ) b) ( 8 8)
√5 _
_ , 7

5 12
b) 3 units (
c) - _ , _
13 13 ) d) ( _45 , - _53 )
__ __
c) 12 units
d) 2.6 units
e) ( √3 1
-_, -_
2 2 ) f) ( 4 4)
√7 _
_ , 3

186 MHR • Chapter 4

3. Determine the missing coordinate(s) for Apply
all points on the unit circle satisfying 7. Draw a diagram of the unit circle.
the given conditions. Draw a diagram to a) Mark two points, P(θ) and P(θ + π), on
support your answer. your diagram. Use measurements to
1
( )
a) _ , y in quadrant I
4
show that these points have the same
coordinates except for their signs.
2
( )
b) x, _ in quadrant II
3 b) Choose a different quadrant for the
7 original point, P(θ). Mark it and
( )
c) - _ , y in quadrant III
8 P(θ + π) on your diagram. Is the result
5 from part a) still true?
( )
d) x, - _ in quadrant IV
7
8. MINI LAB Determine the pattern in the
1
( )
e) x, _ , where x < 0
3
1 rotation
coordinates of points that are _
4
12 apart on the unit circle.
( )
f) _ , y , not in quadrant I
13 Step 1 Start with the__points P(0) = (1, 0),

( ) ( )
4. If P(θ) is the point at the intersection of the π = _ 1, _√3
P _ , and
terminal arm of angle θ and the unit circle, 3 2 2 __
determine the exact coordinates of each of
the following.
P _5π = _
3 ( ) (
1 , -_
2
√3
2
. )
Show these points on a diagram.
a) P(π) ( π2 )
b) P - _
Step 2 Move + _ 1 rotation from each point.
4
π π Determine each new point and its
(3)
c) P _ d)
6)
P(- _
coordinates. Show these points on your
3π
(4)
e) P _ ( 7π4 )
f) P - _ diagram from step 1.
Step 3 Move - _ 1 rotation from each original
g) P(4π)
5π
h) P( _ ) 4
2 point. Determine each new point and
5π 4π
(6)
i) P _ j) P(- _ )
3
its coordinates. Mark these points on
your diagram.
5. Identify a measure for the central angle θ Step 4 How do the values of the x-coordinates
in the interval 0 ≤ θ < 2π such that P(θ) is and y-coordinates of points change
the given point. with each quarter-rotation? Make a
a) (0, -1) b) (1, 0) copy of the diagram and complete
__ __
c) ( 2 ,_
√2
_
2 )
√2
d) (- 12 , 12 )
_
√
__ ___
√
the coordinates to summarize your
findings.
__ __
y
e) ( ,
2 2 )
f) ( , -
2 )
1 √
_ _ 3 1 _ 3 √
_
__
2
__ (
P θ+ π
2 )
_ = (?, ?)

g) (-
2 2)
h) (- , -1)
√
_3 1
_ 3 √
_ _
, P(θ) = (a, b)
__ __
2 2
i) (- , -_)
√
_2 2 √
j) (-1, 0) 0 x
2 2
6. Determine one positive and__one negative

(
√3 1
measure for θ if P(θ) = - _ , _
2 2
. ) ( π π
)
P θ + _ + _ = (?, ?)
2 2 ( π+ _
P θ+ _ π+ _
)
π = (?, ?)
2 2 2

4.2 The Unit Circle • MHR 187

 9. Use the diagram below to help answer 11. Wesley enjoys tricks and puzzles. One of
these questions. his favourite tricks involves remembering
π ,P _ π , and P _
π .
a) What is the equation of this circle?
__ the coordinates for P _
3 ( ) ( )
4 6 ( )
2 √5
(
b) If the coordinates of C are - _ , _ ,
3 3 ) He will not tell you his trick. However, you
can discover it for yourself.
what are the coordinates of B?
a) Examine the coordinates shown on
c) If the measure of AB is θ, what is an
the diagram.
expression for the measure of AC?
Note: AB means the arc length from
y
( ) ( )
π
_ 1 3
_ __
P 3 = 2, 2

P( 4 ) = ( 2 , 2 )
A to B. π
_ __2 __ 2
d) Let P(θ) = B. In which quadrant
P( 6 ) = ( 2 , 2 )
π ? π
_ 3 1
__ _
(
is P θ - _
2 )
e) What are the maximum and minimum 0 x
values for either the x-coordinates
or y-coordinates of points on the
unit circle?
y

B
b) What do you notice about the
denominators?
C
c) What do you notice about the
A(1, 0)
numerators of the x-coordinates?
0 x
Compare them with the numerators
of the y-coordinates. Why do these
patterns make sense?
d) Why are square roots involved?
e) Explain this memory trick to a partner.
10. Mya claims that every value of x between
0 and 1 can be used to find the coordinates 12. a) Explain, with reference to the unit
of a point on the unit circle in quadrant I. circle, what the interval -2π ≤ θ < 4π
represents.
a) Do you agree with Mya? Explain.
b) Use your explanation to determine
b) Mya showed the following work to find
all values for θ in the interval
the y-coordinate when x = 0.807.
-2π ≤ θ < 4π__such that
y = 1 - (0.807)2
= 0.348 751 (
P(θ) = - _
2 2
√3
1, _
)
.
The point on the unit circle is (0.807, 0.348 751). c) How do your answers relate to the word
“coterminal”?
How can you check Mya’s answer? Is __
she correct? If not, what is the correct ( 1 2√2
)
13. If P(θ) = - _ , - _ , determine the
3 3
answer? following.
c) If y = 0.2571, determine x so the point a) What does P(θ) represent? Explain using
is on the unit circle and in the first a diagram.
quadrant.
b) In which quadrant does θ terminate?
π
( 2)
c) Determine the coordinates of P θ + _ .
π .
Determine the coordinates of P(θ - _
2)
d)

188 MHR • Chapter 4

14. In ancient times, determining the 16. Use the unit circle diagram to answer the
perimeter and area of a circle were following questions. Points E, F, G, and D
considered major mathematical challenges. are midway between the axes.
One of Archimedes’ greatest contributions y
to mathematics was his method for
A
approximating π. Now, it is your turn to
F E
be a mathematician. Using a unit circle
diagram, show the difference between
π units and π square units. S(1, 0)
B 0 x
D id Yo u K n ow ?
G D
Archimedes was a Greek mathematician, physicist,
inventor, and astronomer who lived from 287 BCE- C
212 BCE. He died in the Roman siege of Syracuse.
He is considered one of the greatest mathematicians
of all time. He correctly determined the value of π as a) What angle of rotation creates arc SG?
_22 223
being between and _ and proved the area of What is the arc length of SG?
7 71
a circle to be πr 2, where r is the radius. b) Which letter on the diagram
13π ? Explain your
corresponds to P _
2 ( )
answer fully so someone not taking
this course would understand. Use a
diagram and a written explanation.
c) Between which two points would you
find P(5)? Explain.

Extend
17. a) Determine the coordinates of all points
15. a) In the diagram, A has coordinates (a, b).
where the line represented by y = -3x
ABCD is a rectangle with sides parallel
intersects the unit circle. Give your
to the axes. What are the coordinates of
answers as exact values in simplest
B, C, and D?
y form.
b) If one of the points is labelled P(θ + π),
draw a diagram and show at least two
B A(a, b)
values for θ. Explain what θ represents.
θ F(1, 0)
0 x 18. a) P(θ) lies at the intersection of the unit
circle and the line joining A(5, 2) to
C D
the origin. Use your knowledge of
similar triangles and the unit circle
to determine the exact coordinates
b) ∠FOA = θ, and A, B, C, and D lie on the of P(θ).
unit circle. Through which point will the b) Determine the radius of a larger circle
terminal arm pass for each angle? Assume with centre at the origin and passing
all angles are in standard position. through point A.
i) θ + π ii) θ - π c) Write the equation for this larger circle.
iii) -θ + π iv) -θ - π
c) How are the answers in part b) different
if θ is given as the measure of arc FA?

4.2 The Unit Circle • MHR 189

19. In previous grades, you used sine d) Identify several patterns from your unit
and cosine as trigonometric ratios of circle diagrams. Patterns can relate to
sides of right triangles. Show how arc lengths, coordinates of points, and
that use of trigonometry relates to the symmetry.
unit circle. Specifically, show that the C2 Consider the isosceles AOB drawn in the
coordinates of P(θ) can be represented unit circle.
by (cos θ, sin θ) for any θ in the unit y
circle.
20. You can locate a point in a plane using
Cartesian coordinates (x, y), where |x| B
is the distance from the y-axis and |y|
(-1, 0)
is the distance from the x-axis. You can
also locate a point in a plane using (r, θ),
0 A(1, 0) x

where r, r ≥ 0, is the distance from the

origin and θ is the angle of rotation from
the positive x-axis. These are known as
polar coordinates. Determine the polar
coordinates for each point. a) If the measure of one of the equal angles
__ __ __
is twice the measure of the third angle,
a) (2, 2)
√2 _
_ √2
b) (- 2 , - 31 )
√3
_ _
determine the exact measure of arc AB.
c) (2, 2) d) (4, -3) b) Draw a new COA in which
π . What is the exact
Create Connections (
P(C) = P B + _
2 )
C1 The diagram represents the unit circle with measure of ∠CAO, in radians?
some positive arc lengths shown. C3 a) Draw a diagram of a circle with centre
y at the origin and radius r units. What is
π
_ the equation of this circle?
π
_
2
3 _
π b) Show that the equation of any circle
4
π
_ with centre (h, k) and radius r can be
6 expressed as (x - h)2 + (y - k)2 = r 2.
π 0 Hint: Use transformations to help with
0 x
7π
your explanation.
__
6 C4 The largest possible unit circle is cut from
5π
__
4π
4 __ a square piece of paper as shown.
3

a) Draw a similar diagram in your

notebook. Complete the labelling for
positive measures.
b) Write the corresponding negative
value beside each positive value.
a) What percent of the paper is cut off?
Complete this process over the interval
Give your answer to one decimal place.
-2π ≤ θ < 0.
b) What is the ratio of the circumference
c) Give the exact coordinates for the
of the circle to the perimeter of the
vertices of the dashed rectangle.
original piece of paper?

190 MHR • Chapter 4

 4.3
Trigonometric Ratios
Focus on . . .
• relating the trigonometric ratios to the coordinates of points on the
unit circle
• determining exact and approximate values for trigonometric ratios
• identifying the measures of angles that generate specific
trigonometric values
• solving problems using trigonometric ratios

What do a software designer, a civil engineer,

an airline pilot, and a long-distance swimmer’s
support team have in common? All of them use angles and
trigonometric ratios to help solve problems. The software
designer uses trigonometry to present a 3-D world on a 2-D
screen. The engineer uses trigonometric ratios in designs of
on-ramps and off-ramps at highway interchanges. A pilot uses
an approach angle that is determined based on the tangent
ratio. The support team for a long-distance swimmer uses
trigonometry to compensate for the effect of wind and currents
and to guide the swimmer’s direction.

Investigate Trigonometric Ratios and the Unit Circle

1. Draw a unit circle as shown, with a positive angle θ in standard Materials

position. Work with a partner to describe the location of points P • grid paper
and Q. Be specific. • straight edge
y • compass
Q
P

θ B(1, 0)
0 A x

2. From your drawing, identify a single line segment whose length is

equivalent to sin θ. Hint: Use the ratio definition of sin θ and the unit
circle to help you.
3. Identify a line segment whose length is equivalent to cos θ and a line
segment whose length is equivalent to tan θ in your diagram.
4. From your answers in steps 2 and 3, what could you use to represent
the coordinates of point P?

4.3 Trigonometric Ratios • MHR 191

 Reflect and Respond
5. Present an argument or proof that the line segment you selected in
step 3 for cos θ is correct.
6. What equation relates the coordinates of point P? Does this apply
to any point P that lies at the intersection of the terminal arm for an
angle θ and the unit circle? Why?
7. What are the maximum and minimum values for cos θ and sin θ?
Express your answer in words and using an inequality. Confirm your
answer using a calculator.
8. The value of tan θ changes from 0 to undefined for positive values
of θ less than or equal to 90°. Explain how this change occurs with
reference to angle θ in quadrant I of the unit circle. What happens on
a calculator when tan θ is undefined?

Link the Ideas

Coordinates in Terms of Primary Trigonometric Ratios

If P(θ) = (x, y) is the point on the terminal arm of angle θ that intersects
the unit circle, notice that
• cos θ = _ x = x, which How do these ratios connect to
1 the right-triangle definition for
is the first coordinate of P(θ) cosine and sine?
y
• sin θ = _ = y, which
1
is the second coordinate of P(θ)
y

P(θ) = (x, y)
1
θ B(1, 0)
0 A x

You can describe the coordinates of any point P(θ) as (cos θ, sin θ). This
is true for any point P(θ) at the intersection of the terminal arm of an
angle θ and the unit circle.
y Explain how this statement is
Also, you know that tan θ = _ x. consistent with the right-triangle
definition of the tangent ratio.

192 MHR • Chapter 4

Reciprocal Trigonometric Ratios
Three other trigonometric ratios are defined: they are the reciprocals of
sine, cosine, and tangent. These are cosecant, secant, and cotangent. cosecant ratio
By definition, csc θ = _ 1 , sec θ = _ 1 , and cot θ = _ 1 . • the reciprocal of the
sin θ cos θ tan θ sine ratio
• abbreviated csc
• for P(θ) = (x, y) on the
Example 1 1
unit circle, csc θ = _y
__
Determine the Trigonometric Ratios for Angles in the Unit Circle √ 3
• if sin θ = - _ , then
3 ,- _
4 lies at the intersection of the unit circle and 2 __
The point A - _ (
5 5 ) csc θ = - _
√3
2√3
2__ or - _
3
the terminal arm of an angle θ in standard position.
a) Draw a diagram to model the situation.
secant ratio
b) Determine the values of the six trigonometric ratios for θ. • the reciprocal of the
cosine ratio
Express answers in lowest terms.
• abbreviated sec
• for P(θ) = (x, y) on the
Solution 1
unit circle, sec θ = _
x
a) y 1 , then
• if cos θ = _
2
sec θ = _2 or 2
1

cotangent ratio
(1, 0)
• the reciprocal of the
θ 0 x tangent ratio
• abbreviated cot

( 3 4
_ _
A - 5, -5 ) • for P(θ) = (x, y) on the
x
unit circle, cot θ = _
y
• if tan θ = 0, then cot θ
is undefined
b) sin θ = - _
4 The y-coordinate of P(θ) is defined as sin θ.
5
3
cos θ = - _ Why is this true?
5
y
_
tan θ = x
-_4
= _ 5 Explain the arithmetic used to simplify this double fraction.
-_3
5
=_4 Why does it make sense for tan θ to be positive?
3
csc θ = _ 1
sin θ
= -_5 Explain how this answer was determined.
4
sec θ = _ 1 Read as “sec θ equals the reciprocal of cos θ.”
cos θ
= -_5
3
cot θ = _ 1
tan θ
=_3
4

4.3 Trigonometric Ratios • MHR 193

 Your Turn __
2√2
1, _
The point B - _
3 3 ( )
lies at the intersection of the unit circle
and the terminal arm of an angle θ in standard position.
a) Draw a diagram to model the situation.
b) Determine the values of the six trigonometric ratios for θ.
Express your answers in lowest terms.

Exact Values of Trigonometric Ratios

Exact values for the trigonometric ratios can be determined using special
triangles (30°-60°-90° or 45°-45°-90°) and multiples of θ = 0, _π, _
π, _π,
6 4 3
and _π or θ = 0°, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90° for points P(θ) on the unit circle.
2
y
( π
_
P 90° or 2 )
( π
_
P 60° or 3 ) How are P(30°), C, E, and K related?

B
A
( π
_
P 45° or 4 ) What points have the same
π
C
( π
_
P 30° or 6 ) 3 ( )
coordinates as P _ except for
their signs?
P(π or 180°) P(0° or 0)
0 x For P(45°), what are the coordinates
and in which quadrant is θ?
E K
Which special triangle would you
F J
G I use and where would it be placed
H for θ = 135°?

Example 2
Exact Values for Trigonometric Ratios
Determine the exact value for each. Draw diagrams to illustrate your
answers.
5π 4π
a) cos _
6
b) sin - _
3 ( )
c) sec 315° d) cot 270°

Solution
5π
(6)
a) The point P _ lies in quadrant II.
( ) (
5π
__ 3 1
__ _
P 6 = - 2 , 2
y
)
The reference angle for _ 5π is
6
5π
( ) (
π
_ 3 1
__ _
P 6 = 2 , 2 )
θR = π - _5π = _ π. __
6 6 6
θR P(0) = (1, 0)
Recall that the reference Its x-coordinate is negative and 0 x
angle, θR, is the acute its y-coordinate is positive.
angle formed between the __
terminal arm and the x-axis. √3 1
P(θ) = - _ , _
2 2
__
( )
cos 5π
_
6
=-
√3
_
2
P ( 5π6 ) has the same coordinates as P( π6 ),
_ _

except the x-coordinates have different signs.

194 MHR • Chapter 4

 4π
b) - _ is a clockwise rotation y
3
from the positive x-axis. ( 4π
__
) ( 1 3
_ __
P - 3 = - 2, 2 ) ( ) (
π
_ 1 3
_ __
P 3 = 2, 2 )
4π lies in quadrant II.
(
P -_
3 )
The reference angle for - _ 4π θR
P(0) = (1, 0)
3
2π = _ π. 0 x
is θR = π - _ 4π
3 3 __ - __
3
P(θ) = - _(
__
√3
1, _
2 2 )
4π = _ √3
(
sin - _
3 ) 2
What is a positive
4π ?
coterminal angle for - _
3
c) An angle of 315° is a counterclockwise rotation that terminates in
quadrant IV.
The reference angle for 315° y
is θR = 360° - 315° = 45°.
1__ , - _ 1__
P(θ) = _ (
√2 √2 ) Explain how
to get the
__ 1 coordinates P(0) = (1, 0)
sec 315° = for P(θ).
cos 315° 0 θR x
__ 315°
√2 __
= _ or √2
1

d) An angle of 270° terminates on the negative y-axis.

P(270°) = (0, -1) y
y x
Since tan θ = _ _
x , cot θ = y .
Therefore,
cot 270° = _0 P(0) = (1, 0)
-1 0 x
=0 270°

P(270°) = (0, -1)

Your Turn
Draw diagrams to help you determine the exact value of each
trigonometric ratio.
a) tan _
π 7π
b) csc _
2 6
c) sin (-300°) d) sec 60°

4.3 Trigonometric Ratios • MHR 195

 Approximate Values of Trigonometric Ratios
You can determine approximate values for sine, cosine, and tangent
using a scientific or graphing calculator. Most calculators can
determine trigonometric values for angles measured in degrees or
radians. You will need to set the mode to the correct angle measure.
Check using
cos 60° = 0.5 (degree mode)
In which quadrant does an
cos 60 = -0.952 412 980… (radian mode) angle of 60 terminate?
Most calculators can compute trigonometric ratios for negative
angles. However, you should use your knowledge of reference
angles and the signs of trigonometric ratios for the quadrant to
check that your calculator display is reasonable.
cos (-200°) = -0.939 692 620… y

Is the negative value appropriate?

What is the reference angle for
θR
-200°? What other trigonometric
0 x
ratio could you compute as a check? -200°

You can find the value of a trigonometric ratio for cosecant, secant, or
cotangent using the correct reciprocal relationship.
sec 3.3 = __ 1
cos 3.3
= -1.012 678 973…
≈ -1.0127

Example 3
Approximate Values for Trigonometric Ratios
Determine the approximate value for each trigonometric ratio. Give your
answers to four decimal places.
a) tan _
7π b) cos 260°
5
c) sin 4.2 d) csc (-70°)

Solution
7π
7π In which quadrant does an angle of _
a) _ is measured in radians. 5
5 terminate?
7π = 3.077 683 537…
tan _ Make sure your calculator is in radian mode.
5
≈ 3.0777 Why is the answer positive?

b) cos 260° = -0.173 648 177… In which quadrant does 260° terminate?
≈ -0.1736

196 MHR • Chapter 4

c) sin 4.2 = -0.871 575 772… Which angle mode do you need here?
≈ -0.8716 Why is the answer negative?

d) An angle of -70° terminates in quadrant IV.

The y-coordinate for points in quadrant IV is negative.
csc (-70°) = __ 1 What steps are needed to evaluate
sin (-70°) __ 1
on your calculator?
= -1.064 177 772… sin (-70°)
≈ -1.0642
y

0 -70° x

Your Turn
What is the approximate value for each trigonometric ratio? Round
answers to four decimal places. Justify the sign of each answer.
a) sin 1.92
b) tan (-500°)
c) sec 85.4°
d) cot 3

Approximate Values of Angles

How can you find the measure of an angle when the value of the
trigonometric ratio is given? To reverse the process (for example, to
determine θ if you know sin θ), use the inverse trigonometric function
keys on a calculator.
sin 30° = 0.5  sin-1 0.5 = 30°
Note that sin-1 is an abbreviation for “the inverse of sine.” Do not
confuse this with (sin 30°)-1, which means __ 1 , or the reciprocal
sin 30°
of sin 30°.
The calculator keys sin-1, cos-1, and tan-1 return one answer only, when
there are often two angles with the same trigonometric function value in
any full rotation. In general, it is best to use the reference angle applied
to the appropriate quadrants containing the terminal arm of the angle.

4.3 Trigonometric Ratios • MHR 197

 Example 4
Find Angles Given Their Trigonometric Ratios
Determine the measures of all angles that satisfy the following. Use
diagrams in your explanation.
a) sin θ = 0.879 in the domain 0 ≤ θ < 2π. Give answers to the nearest
tenth of a radian.
b) cos θ = -0.366 in the domain 0° ≤ θ < 360°. Give answers to the
nearest tenth
__
of a degree.
c) tan θ = 3 in the domain -180° ≤ θ < 180°. Give exact answers.
√

d) sec θ = _
2__ in the domain -2π ≤ θ < 2π. Give exact answers.
√3
Solution
Did Yo u Know ? a) sin θ > 0 in quadrants I and II.
The domain consists of one positive rotation.
By convention, if
the domain is given Therefore, two answers need to be identified.
in radian measure,
express answers in sin-1 0.879 = 1.073 760 909… Use a calculator in radian mode.
radians. If the domain ≈ 1.1
is expressed using
y
degrees, give the
answers in degrees.

θR 1.1
0 x

In quadrant I, θ ≈ 1.1, to the nearest tenth. This is the reference angle.

In quadrant II, θ ≈ π - 1.1 or 2.0, to the nearest tenth.
The answers, to the nearest tenth of a radian, are 1.1 and 2.0.

b) cos θ < 0 in quadrants II and III. Why will the answer be

measured in degrees?
y

θR θ
0 x

Did you check that your

cos-1 (-0.366) ≈ 111.5°, to the nearest tenth. calculator is in degree
This answer is in quadrant II. mode?
The reference angle for other answers is 68.5°. How do you determine
this reference angle
In quadrant III, θ ≈ 180° + 68.5° or 248.5°.
from 111.5°?
The answers, to the nearest tenth of a degree, are 111.5° and 248.5°.

198 MHR • Chapter 4

c) tan θ > 0 in quadrants I and III.

The domain includes both quadrants. In the positive direction an

answer will be in quadrant I, and in the negative direction an answer
will be in quadrant III.
To answer with exact values, work with the special coordinates on a
unit circle.
__ __
tan 60° = √3 How do you know that tan 60° = √3 ?
y Could you use a calculator here?
1 3
(
P(60°) = _ , __
2 2 )

60°
60° 0 x
-120°

In quadrant I, from the domain 0° ≤ θ < 180°, θ = 60°. This is the

reference angle. In quadrant III, from the domain -180° ≤ θ < 0°,
θ = -180° + 60° or -120°.
The exact answers are 60° and -120°.
1
d) sec θ > 0 in quadrants I and IV since sec θ = _ and cos θ > 0 in
cos θ
quadrants I and IV.
The domain includes four quadrants in both the positive and
negative directions. Thus, there are two positive answers and two
negative answers.
y

( )
π
_ 3 1
(
P 6 = __ , _
2 2 )
π
_
6
0 x
11π
__
6

__
1 =_ √3
cos θ = _
sec__θ 2
π √ 3
cos _ = _
6 2
θ=_ π and θ = _11π in the domain 0 ≤ θ < 2π.
6 6
θ = -_π and θ = - _11π in the domain -2π ≤ θ < 0. How do coterminal
6 6 angles help?
11π , - _
π, _
The exact answers in radians are _ 11π .
π , and - _
6 6 6 6

4.3 Trigonometric Ratios • MHR 199

 Your Turn
Determine the measures of all angles that satisfy each of the following.
Use diagrams to show the possible answers.
a) cos θ = 0.843 in the domain -360° < θ < 180°. Give approximate
answers to the nearest tenth.
b) sin θ = 0 in the domain 0° ≤ θ ≤ 180°. Give exact answers.
c) cot θ = -2.777 in the domain -π ≤ θ ≤ π. Give approximate answers
to the nearest tenth.
d) csc θ = - _
2__ in the domain -2π ≤ θ ≤ π. Give exact answers.
√2

Example 5
Calculating Trigonometric Values for Points Not on the Unit Circle
The point A(-4, 3) lies on the terminal arm of an angle θ in standard
position. What is the exact value of each trigonometric ratio for θ?

Solution
ABO is a right triangle. y

4
Identify trigonometric values for θ using A(-4, 3)
the lengths of the sides of ABO. 2
θ
Confirm this B
ABO has sides of lengths 3, 4, and 5. using the
-4 -2 0 2 x
Recall that OA is a length and the Pythagorean
theorem.
segments OB and BA are considered
as directed lengths.
y 1
sin θ = _
r csc θ = _
sin θ
=_3 =_5
5 3
x
cos θ = _ sec θ = _ 1
r cos θ
=_-4 = -_5
5 4
=- 4
_
5
y 1
tan θ = _
x cot θ = _
tan θ
=_ 3 = -_4
-4 3
=- 3
_
4

Your Turn
The point D(-5, -12) lies on the terminal arm of an angle θ in standard
position. What is the exact value of each trigonometric ratio for θ?

200 MHR • Chapter 4

 Key Ideas

Points that are on the intersection of the terminal arm of an angle θ

in standard position and the unit circle can be defined using
trigonometric ratios.
P(θ) = (cos θ, sin θ)
Each primary trigonometric ratio—sine, cosine, and tangent—has a
reciprocal trigonometric ratio. The reciprocals are cosecant, secant,
and cotangent, respectively.
csc θ = _ 1 sec θ = _ 1 cot θ = _ 1 3 , and vice versa.
2 , then csc θ = _
If sin θ = _
sin θ cos θ tan θ 3 2

You can determine the trigonometric ratios for any angle in standard
position using the coordinates of the point where the terminal arm
intersects the unit circle.
π, _
Exact values of trigonometric rations for special angles such as 0, _ π,
π, _
6 4 3
and _π and their multiples may be determined using the coordinates of
2
points on the unit circle.
You can determine approximate values for trigonometric ratios using a
calculator in the appropriate mode: radians or degrees.
You can use a scientific or graphing calculator to determine an angle
measure given the value of a trigonometric ratio. Then, use your knowledge
of reference angles, coterminal angles, and signs of ratios in each quadrant
to determine other possible angle measures. Unless the domain is
restricted, there are an infinite number of answers.
Determine the trigonometric ratios for an angle θ in standard position
from the coordinates of a point on the terminal arm of θ and right triangle
definitions of the trigonometric ratios.

Check Your Understanding

Practise 2. Determine the approximate value for each

1. What is the exact value for each trigonometric ratio. Give answers to two
trigonometric ratio? decimal places.
a) sin 45° b) tan 30° a) cos 47° b) cot 160°
3π
c) cos _
7π
d) cot _
c) sec 15° d) csc 4.71
4 6
e) sin 5 f) tan 0.94
e) csc 210° f) sec (-240°)
3π 5π
g) sin _ h) tan 6.9
g) tan _ h) sec π 7
2
11π
i) cot (-120°) j) cos 390° i) cos 302° (
j) sin - _
19 )
k)
5π
sin _ l) csc 495° k) cot 6 l) sec (-270°)
3

4.3 Trigonometric Ratios • MHR 201

 3. If θ is an angle in standard position Apply
with the following conditions, in which 9. Determine the exact value of each
quadrants may θ terminate? expression.
a) cos θ > 0 a) cos 60° + sin 30°
b) tan θ < 0 b) (sec 45°)2
5π sec _
5π
c) sin θ < 0 c) (cos _3 )( 3 )
d) sin θ > 0 and cot θ < 0
d) (tan 60°)2 - (sec 60°)2
e) cos θ < 0 and csc θ > 0 2 2
7π + sin _
f) sec θ > 0 and tan θ > 0
e) (cos _4 ) ( 7π4 )
2
5π
4. Express the given quantity using the
same trigonometric ratio and its reference
f) (cot _6 )
angle. For example, cos 110° = -cos 70°. 10. Determine the exact measure of all angles
For angle measures in radians, that satisfy the following. Draw a diagram
give exact answers. For example, for each.
cos 3 = -cos (π - 3). 1
a) sin θ = - _ in the domain
2
a) sin 250° b) tan 290° 0 ≤ θ < 2π
c) sec 135° d) cos 4 b) cot θ = 1 in the domain
e) csc 3 f) cot 4.95 -π ≤ θ < 2π
5. For each point, sketch two coterminal c) sec θ = 2 in the domain
angles in standard position whose terminal -180° ≤ θ < 90°
arm contains the point. Give one positive d) (cos θ)2 = 1 in the domain
and one negative angle, in radians, where -360° ≤ θ < 360°
neither angle exceeds one full rotation. 11. Determine the approximate measure
a) (3, 5) b) (-2, -1) of all angles that satisfy the following.
c) (-3, 2) d) (5, -2) Give answers to two decimal places. Use
diagrams to show the possible answers.
6. Indicate whether each trigonometric
ratio is positive or negative. Do not use a a) cos θ = 0.42 in the domain
calculator. -π ≤ θ ≤ π
b) tan θ = -4.87 in the domain
a) cos 300° b) sin 4
-_π ≤θ≤π
c) cot 156° d) csc (-235°) 2
13π 17π c) csc θ = 4.87 in the domain
e) tan _ f) sec _ -360° ≤ θ < 180°
6 3
7. Determine each value. Explain what the d) cot θ = 1.5 in the domain
answer means. -180° ≤ θ < 360°
a) sin-1 0.2 b) tan-1 7 12. Determine the exact values of the other
c) sec 450° d) cot (-180°) five trigonometric ratios under the given
3 conditions.
( )
8. The point P(θ) = _ , y lies on the terminal
5 3 π
arm of an angle θ in standard position and a) sin θ = _ , _ < θ < π
5 2 __
on the unit circle. P(θ) is in quadrant IV. -2√2 3π
b) cos θ = __ , -π ≤ θ ≤ _
a) Determine y. 3 2
2
_
c) tan θ = , -360° < θ < 180°
b) What is the value of tan θ? 3 __
c) What is the value of csc θ? 4√3
d) sec θ = _ , -180° ≤ θ ≤ 180°
3

202 MHR • Chapter 4

13. Using the point B(-2, -3), explain how to 18. Examine the diagram. A piston rod, PQ, is
determine the exact value of cos θ given connected to a wheel at P and to a piston
that B is a point on the terminal arm of an at Q. As P moves around the wheel in a
angle θ in standard position. counterclockwise direction, Q slides back
14. The measure of angle θ in standard and forth.
position is 4900°. y
a) Describe θ in terms of revolutions. P
Be specific.
b) In which quadrant does 4900°
θ (1, 0)
terminate? 0 x
Q
c) What is the measure of the
reference angle?
d) Give the value of each trigonometric
ratio for 4900°.
15. a) Determine the positive value of a) What is the maximum distance that Q
sin (cos-1 0.6). Use your knowledge can move?
of the unit circle to explain why the b) If the wheel starts with P at (1, 0) and
answer is a rational number. rotates at 1 radian/s, draw a sketch
b) Without calculating, what is the to show where P will be located after
positive value of cos (sin-1 0.6)? 1 min.
Explain. c) What distance will Q have moved 1 s
16. a) Jason got an answer of 1.051 176 209 after start-up? Give your answer to the
when he used a calculator to determine nearest hundredth of a unit.
40π . Is he correct? If
the value of sec _ 19. Each point lies on the terminal arm of an
7
not, where did he make his mistake? angle θ in standard position. Determine θ
b) Describe the steps you would use to in the specified domain. Round answers to
determine an approximate value for the nearest hundredth of a unit.
40π on your calculator.
sec _ a) A(-3, 4), 0 < θ ≤ 4π
7
17. a) Arrange the following values of sine in b) B(5, -1), -360° ≤ θ < 360°
increasing order. 3π 7π
c) C(-2, -3), - _ < θ < _
sin 1, sin 2, sin 3, sin 4 2 2
b) Show what the four values represent on
Extend
a diagram of the unit circle. Use your
20. Draw ABC with ∠A = 15° and ∠C = 90°.
diagram to justify the order from part a).
Let BC = 1. D is a point on AC such that
c) Predict the correct increasing order for ∠DBC = 60°. Use your diagram to help you
cos 1, cos 2, cos 3, and cos 4. Check
show that tan 15° = ____1 .
with a calculator. Was your prediction √3 + 2
correct?

4.3 Trigonometric Ratios • MHR 203

21. The diagram shows a quarter-circle of 23. In the investigation at the beginning of
radius 5 units. Consider the point on the this section, you identified line segments
curve where x = 2.5. Show that this point whose lengths are equivalent to cos θ, sin
is one-third the distance between (0, 5) and θ, and tan θ using the diagram shown.
(5, 0) on the arc of the circle. y Q
y

5 P

θ B(1, 0)
0 A x
0 5 x

22. Alice Through the Looking Glass by

Lewis Carroll introduced strange new
worlds where time ran backwards. Your a) Determine a line segment from the
challenge is to imagine a unit circle in diagram whose length is equivalent to
which a positive rotation is defined to be sec θ. Explain your reasoning
clockwise. Assume the coordinate system b) Make a copy of the diagram. Draw a
remains as we know it. horizontal line tangent to the circle that
a) Draw a unit circle in which positive intersects the positive y-axis at C and
angles are measured clockwise from OQ at D. Now identify segments whose
π ,R _5π , R _7π , lengths are equivalent to csc θ and
(0, 1). Label where R _
6 ( ) ( ) ( )
6 6 cot θ. Explain your reasoning.
11π
and R _
(6 )
are on your new unit circle.
Create Connections
b) What are the coordinates for the new
π and R _ 5π ? C1 a) Paula sees that sine ratios increase from
R _( )
6 6 ( ) 0 to 1 in quadrant 1. She concludes
c) How do angles in this new system relate that the sine relation is increasing in
to conventional angles in standard quadrant I. Show whether Paula is
position? correct using specific values for sine.
d) How does your new system of b) Is sine increasing in quadrant II?
angle measure relate to bearings in Explain why or why not.
navigation? Explain. c) Does the sine ratio increase in any other
quadrant, and if so, which? Explain.
C2 A regular hexagon is inscribed in the unit
circle as shown. If one vertex is at (1, 0),
what are the exact coordinates of the other
vertices? Explain your reasoning.
y

(1, 0)
0 x

204 MHR • Chapter 4

C3 Let P be the point of intersection of the C4 Use the diagram to help find the value of
unit circle and the terminal arm of an each expression.
angle θ in standard position. y
y
4
P
2
θ
θ (1, 0)
-6 -4 -2 0 2 4 6x
0 x
-2

-4

a) What is a formula for the slope of

OP? Write your formula in terms of
( ( 5 ))
4
a) sin sin-1 _

b) cos (tan ( _ ))
trigonometric ratios. 4
-1
3
b) Does your formula apply in every
c) csc (cos (- _ )), where the angle is in
quadrant? Explain. -1 3
5
c) Write an equation for any line OP. Use quadrant II
your trigonometric value for the slope.
d) Use transformations to show that your ( ( 43 ))
d) sin tan-1 - _ , where the angle is in

equation from part c) applies to any line quadrant IV

where the slope is defined.

Project Corner History of Angle Measurement

• The use of the angular measurement unit “degree” is believed

to have originated with the Babylonians. One theory is that their
division of a circle into 360 parts is approximately the number of
days in a year.
• Degree measures can also be subdivided into minutes
( ) and seconds ( ), where one degree is divided into 60
min, and one minute is divided into 60 s. For example,
30.1875° = 30° 11 15 .
• The earliest textual evidence of π dates from about 2000 B.C.E.,
25 and
with recorded approximations by the Babylonians _ ( )
8
256 . Roger Cotes (1682–1716) is credited with the
Rhind Papyrus, ancient
Egypt c1650 B.C.E.
the Egyptians _ ( )
81
concept of radian measure of angles, although he did not name the unit.
• The radian is widely accepted as the standard unit of angular measure in
many fields of mathematics and in physics. The use of radians allows for
the simplification of formulas and provides better approximations.
• What are some alternative units for measuring angles? What are some
advantages and disadvantages of these units? What are some contexts in
which these units are used?

4.3 Trigonometric Ratios • MHR 205

 4.4
Introduction to
Trigonometric
Equations
Focus on . . .
• algebraically solving first-degree and second-degree
trigonometric equations in radians and in degrees
• verifying that a specific value is a solution to a
trigonometric equation
• identifying exact and approximate solutions of a
trigonometric equation in a restricted domain
• determining the general solution of a trigonometric
equation

Many situations in nature involve cyclical patterns,

atterns, such
cation Other
as average daily temperature at a specific location.
This old silver-gelatin photograph of
applications of trigonometry relate to electricity or the way traditional Kwakiutl spear fishing was
light passes from air into water. When you look at a fish in taken in 1914 by Edward S. Curtis. The
the water, it is not precisely where it appears to be, due to Kwakiutl First Nation’s people have
lived on the north-eastern shores of
the refraction of light. The Kwakiutl peoples from Northwest
Vancouver Island for thousands of
British Columbia figured this out centuries ago. They became years. Today, the band council is based
expert spear fishermen. in Fort Rupert and owns 295 hectares
of land in the area.
In this section, you will explore how to use algebraic
techniques, similar to those used in solving linear and
quadratic equations, to solve trigonometric equations. Your trigonometric
knowledge of coterminal angles, points on the unit circle, equation
and inverse trigonometric functions will be important for • an equation involving
understanding the solution of trigonometric equations. trigonometric ratios

Investigate Trigonometric Equations

Did Yo u Know ?
1
1. What are the exact measures of θ if cos θ = - _ , 0 ≤ θ < 2π? How is
2
In equations, the equation related to 2 cos θ + 1 = 0?
mathematicians often
2. What is the answer for step 1 if the domain is given as 0° ≤ θ < 360°?
use the notation
cos2 θ. This means 3. What are the approximate measures for θ if 3 cos θ + 1 = 0 and the
the same as (cos θ)2.
domain is 0 ≤ θ < 2π?

206 MHR • Chapter 4

 4. Set up a T-chart like the one below. In the left column, show the
steps you would use to solve the quadratic equation x2 - x = 0. In
the right column, show similar steps that will lead to the solution of
the trigonometric equation cos2 θ - cos θ = 0, 0 ≤ θ < 2π.
Quadratic Equation Trigonometric Equation

Reflect and Respond

5. How is solving the equations in steps 1 to 3 similar to solving a
linear equation? How is it different? Use examples.
6. When solving a trigonometric equation, how do you know whether
to give your answers in degrees or radians?
7. Identify similarities and differences between solving a quadratic
equation and solving a trigonometric equation that is quadratic.

Link the Ideas

In the investigation, you explored solving trigonometric equations.

Did you realize that in Section 4.3 you were already solving simple
trigonometric equations? The same processes will be used each time
you solve a trigonometric equation, and these processes are the same
as those used in solving linear and quadratic equations.
The notation [0, π] represents the interval from 0 to π inclusive and is
another way of writing 0 ≤ θ ≤ π.
• θ ∈ (0, π) means the same as 0 < θ < π. How would you show
-π < θ ≤ 2π using
• θ ∈ [0, π) means the same as 0 ≤ θ < π. interval notation?

Example 1
Solve Trigonometric Equations
Solve each trigonometric equation in the specified domain.
a) 5 sin θ + 2 = 1 + 3 sin θ, 0 ≤ θ < 2π
b) 3 csc x - 6 = 0, 0° ≤ x < 360°

Solution
a) 5 sin θ + 2 1 + 3 sin θ
=
5 sin θ + 2 - 3 sin θ 1 + 3 sin θ - 3 sin θ
=
2 sin θ + 2 1=
2 sin θ + 2 - 2 1-2
=
2 sin θ =
-1
1
sin θ = - _
2

4.4 Introduction to Trigonometric Equations • MHR 207

 y

π
( 3 1
__
2 2
, _ )
_
6
0 x

π.
The reference angle is θR = _ In which quadrants must θ terminate
6 1?
if sin θ = - _
2
θ=π+_ π =_7π (quadrant III)
6 6
θ = 2π - _π =_ 11π (quadrant IV)
6 6
The solutions are θ = _7π and θ = _
11π in the domain 0 ≤ θ < 2π.
6 6
b) 3 csc x - 6 = 0
3 csc x = 6
csc x = 2 What operations were performed to arrive at this equation?
1
If csc x = 2, then sin x = _
2
x = 30° and 150° Explain how to arrive at these answers.

The solutions are x = 30° and x = 150° in the domain 0° ≤ x < 360°.

Your Turn
Solve each trigonometric equation in the specified domain.
a) 3 cos θ - 1 = cos θ + 1, -2π ≤ θ ≤ 2π
b) 4 sec x + 8 = 0, 0° ≤ x < 360°

Example 2
Factor to Solve a Trigonometric Equation
Solve for θ.
tan2 θ - 5 tan θ + 4 = 0, 0 ≤ θ < 2π
Give solutions as exact values where possible. Otherwise, give
approximate angle measures, to the nearest thousandth of a radian.

Solution
tan2 θ - 5 tan θ + 4 = 0 How is this similar to solving
(tan θ - 1)(tan θ - 4) = 0 x2 - 5x + 4 = 0?

tan θ - 1 = 0 or tan θ - 4 = 0
tan θ = 1 tan θ = 4 In which quadrants is tan θ > 0?

5π
π, _ What angle mode must your
θ=_ tan-1 4 = θ calculator be in to find tan-1 4?
4 4
θ = 1.3258…
How do you know that
θ ≈ 1.326 is a measure in quadrant I. 1.326 is in quadrant I?

208 MHR • Chapter 4

In quadrant III,
θ= π + θR Why is tan-1 4 used as the
= π + tan-1 4 reference angle here?

= π + 1.3258…
= 4.467 410 317…
≈ 4.467
The solutions are θ = _ 5π (exact), θ ≈ 1.326, and
π, θ = _
4 4
θ ≈ 4.467 (to the nearest thousandth).

Your Turn
Solve for θ.
cos2 θ - cos θ - 2 = 0, 0° ≤ θ < 360°
Give solutions as exact values where possible. Otherwise, give
approximate measures to the nearest thousandth of a degree.

Example 3
General Solution of a Trigonometric Equation
a) Solve for x in the interval 0 ≤ x < 2π if sin2 x - 1 = 0.
Give answers as exact values.
b) Determine the general solution for sin2 x - 1 = 0 over the real
numbers if x is measured in radians.

Solution
a) Method 1: Use Square Root Principles
sin2 x - 1 = 0
sin2 x = 1
sin x = ±1 Why are there two values for sin x?
sin x = 1 or sin x = -1
π.
If sin x = 1, then x = _
2
If sin x = -1, then x = _3π . π 3π
Where did _ and _ come from?
2 2 2
5π
y Why is _ not an acceptable
2
answer?
(0, 1)

(-1, 0) (1, 0)
0 x

(0, -1)

4.4 Introduction to Trigonometric Equations • MHR 209

 Method 2: Use Factoring
sin2 x - 1 = 0
(sin x - 1)(sin x + 1) = 0
sin x - 1 = 0 or sin x + 1 = 0
Continue as in Method 1.
Check: x = _π x=_ 3π
2 2
Left Side Right Side Left Side Right Side
sin2 x - 1 0 sin2 x - 1 0
2
π 2-1 3π - 1
(
= sin _
2 ) (
= sin _
2 )
= 12 - 1 = (-1)2 - 1
=0 =0
Both answers are verified.
3π .
π, _
The solution is x = _
2 2

b) If the domain is real numbers, you can make an infinite number of

rotations on the unit circle in both a positive and a negative direction.
π are … - _
Values corresponding to x = _ 3π , _
7π , - _ 5π , _
π, _ 9π , …
2 2 2 2 2 2
What patterns do you see in these values for θ?
3π are … - _
Values corresponding to x = _ 5π , - _ 3π , _
π, _ 7π , _
11π , …
2 2 2 2 2 2
Do you see that the terminal arm is at the point
(0, 1) or (0, -1) with any of the angles above?

Did Yo u Know ? An expression for the values corresponding to x = _ π is

π + 2πn, where n ∈ I. 2
2n, where n ∈ I, x=_
2
represents all even 3π is
integers. An expression for the values corresponding to x = _
2
2n + 1, where n ∈ I, x=_ 3π + 2πn, where n ∈ I.
is an expression for all 2
odd integers. The two expressions above can be combined to form the general
π + πn, where n ∈ I.
solution x = _
2
The solution can also be described as “odd integral multiples of _ π .”
2
In symbols, this is written
π , n ∈ I. How can you show algebraically that
as (2n + 1) _
2 ( ) π
( ) π
(2n + 1) _ , n ∈ I, and _ + πn, n ∈ I,
2 2
are equivalent?
Your Turn
a) If cos2 x - 1 = 0, solve for x in the domain 0° ≤ x < 360°.
Give solutions as exact values.
b) Determine the general solution for cos2 x - 1 = 0, where
the domain is real numbers measured in degrees.

210 MHR • Chapter 4

 Key Ideas

To solve a trigonometric equation algebraically, you can use the same

techniques as used in solving linear and quadratic equations.
When you arrive at sin θ = a or cos θ = a or tan θ = a, where a ∈ R, then use
the unit circle for exact values of θ and inverse trigonometric function keys on
a calculator for approximate measures. Use reference angles to find solutions in
other quadrants.
To solve a trigonometric equation involving csc θ, sec θ, or cot θ, you may need
to work with the related reciprocal value(s).
To determine a general solution or if the domain is real numbers, find the
solutions in one positive rotation (2π or 360°). Then, use the concept of
coterminal angles to write an expression that identifies all possible measures.

Check Your Understanding

Practise 4. Solve each equation for 0 ≤ θ < 2π.

1. Without solving, determine the number of Give solutions to the nearest hundredth
solutions for each trigonometric equation of a radian.
in the specified domain. Explain your a) tan θ = 4.36
reasoning. b) cos θ = -0.19
__
√3
a) sin θ = _ , 0 ≤ θ < 2π c) sin θ = 0.91
2
_1 d) cot θ = 12.3
b) cos θ = __ , -2π ≤ θ < 2π
√2 e) sec θ = 2.77
c) tan θ = -1, -360° ≤ θ ≤ 180°
__ f) csc θ = -1.57
2√3
_
d) sec θ = , -180° ≤ θ < 180° 5. Solve each equation in the specified
3
1
2. The equation cos θ = _ , 0 ≤ θ < 2π, has domain.
2
π and _ 5π . Suppose the domain a) 3 cos θ - 1 = 4 cos θ, 0 ≤ θ < 2π
solutions _ __
3 3 b) √3 tan θ + 1 = 0, -π ≤ θ ≤ 2π
is not restricted. __
c) √2 sin x - 1 = 0, –360° < x ≤ 360°
a) What is the general solution
π? d) 3 sin x - 5 = 5 sin x - 4,
corresponding to θ = _
3 -360° ≤ x < 180°
b) What is the general solution
e) 3 cot x + 1 = 2 + 4 cot x,
corresponding to θ = _5π ?
3 -180° < x < 360°
__
3. Determine the exact roots for f) √3 sec θ + 2 = 0, -π ≤ θ ≤ 3π
each trigonometric equation or
statement in the specified domain.
__
a) 2 cos θ - √3 = 0, 0 ≤ θ < 2π
b) csc θ is undefined, 0° ≤ θ < 360°
c) 5 - tan2 θ = 4, -180° ≤ θ ≤ 360°
__ 3π
d) sec θ + √2 = 0, -π ≤ θ ≤ _
2

4.4 Introduction to Trigonometric Equations • MHR 211

 6. Copy and complete the table to express 10. Explain why the equation sin θ = 0 has
each domain or interval using the other no solution in the interval (π, 2π).
notation. 11. What is the solution for sin θ = 2? Show
Domain Interval Notation how you know. Does the interval matter?
a) -2π ≤ θ ≤ 2π 12. Jaycee says that the trigonometric equation
7π
1 has an infinite number of
cos θ = _
π ≤θ≤_
-_
b) 3 2
3
solutions. Do you agree? Explain.
c) 0° ≤ θ ≤ 270°
13. a) Helene is asked to solve the equation
d) θ ∈ [0, π)
3 sin2 θ - 2 sin θ = 0, 0 ≤ θ ≤ π. She
e) θ ∈ (0°, 450°)
finds that θ = π. Show how she could
f) θ ∈ (-2π, 4π] check whether this is a correct root for
7. Solve for θ in the specified domain. Give the equation.
solutions as exact values where possible. b) Find all the roots of the equation
Otherwise, give approximate measures to 3 sin2 θ - 2 sin θ = 0, θ ∈ [0, π].
the nearest thousandth. 14. Refer to the Did You Know? below. Use
a) 2 cos2 θ - 3 cos θ + 1 = 0, 0 ≤ θ < 2π Snell’s law of refraction to determine
b) tan2 θ - tan θ - 2 = 0, 0° ≤ θ < 360° the angle of refraction of a ray of light
c) sin2 θ - sin θ = 0, θ ∈ [0, 2π) passing from air into water if the angle of
incidence is 35°. The refractive index is
d) sec2 θ - 2 sec θ - 3 = 0,
1.000 29 for air and 1.33 for water.
θ ∈ [-180°, 180°)
8. Todd believes that 180° and 270° D i d You K n ow ?
are solutions to the equation Willebrord Snell, a Dutch physicist, discovered
5 cos2 θ = -4 cos θ. Show how you that light is bent (refracted) as it passes from
would check to determine whether Todd’s one medium into another. Snell’s law is shown in
the diagram.
solutions are correct.

Apply θ1
n1
9. Aslan and Shelley are finding the
n2 0
solution for 2 sin2 θ = sin θ, 0 < θ ≤ π.
θ2
Here is their work.
2sin2 -0 = sin -0
n1 sin θ1 = n2 sin θ2,
2sin2 -
__ 0 sin -
_ 0
= Step 1 where θ1 is the angle of incidence,
sin -
0 sin -
0
θ2 is the angle of refraction, and
2sin -0 = 1 Step 2 n1 and n2 are the refractive indices of the mediums.
1
sin -0 = _ Step 3
2
π 5π
-0 = _ , _ Step 4
6 6
a) Identify the error that Aslan and Shelley
made and explain why their solution is
incorrect.
b) Show a correct method to determine the
solution for 2 sin2 θ = sin θ, 0 < θ ≤ π.

212 MHR • Chapter 4

15. The average number of air conditioners Extend
sold in western Canada varies seasonally 19. A beach ball is riding the waves near
and depends on the month of the year. Tofino, British Columbia. The ball goes up
π (t - 3)
The formula y = 5.9 + 2.4 sin _
6 ( ) and down with the waves according to the
πt , where h is the
gives the expected sales, y, in thousands, formula h = 1.4 sin _
3( )
according to the month, t, where t = 1 height, in metres, above sea level, and t is
represents January, t = 2 is February, and the time, in seconds.
so on. a) In the first 10 s, when is the ball at
a) In what month are sales of 8300 air sea level?
conditioners expected? b) When does the ball reach its greatest
b) In what month are sales expected to height above sea level? Give the
be least? first time this occurs and then write
c) Does this formula seem reasonable? an expression for every time the
Explain. maximum occurs.
16. Nora is required to solve the following c) According to the formula, what is the
trigonometric equation. most the ball goes below sea level?
2
9 sin θ + 12 sin θ + 4 = 0, θ ∈ [0°, 360°) 20. The current, I, in amperes, for an
electric circuit is given by the formula
Nora did the work shown below. Examine
I = 4.3 sin 120πt, where t is time,
her work carefully. Identify any errors.
in seconds.
Rewrite the solution, making any changes
necessary for it to be correct. a) The alternating current used in western
Canada cycles 60 times per second.
9 sin2 -0 + 12 sin -0 + 4 = 0
Demonstrate this using the given
(3 sin -0 + 2)2 = 0
formula.
3 sin -0 + 2 = 0
2 b) At what times is the current at its
Therefore, sin -0 = - _
3 maximum value? How does your
Use a calculator.
understanding of coterminal angles
( ) 3
2
sin-1 - _ = -41.810 314 9
So, the reference angle is 41.8°, to the nearest tenth of
help in your solution?
c) At what times is the current at its
a degree.
minimum value?
Sine is negative in quadrants II and III.
The solution in quadrant II is 180° - 41.8° = 138.2°. d) What is the maximum current?
The solution in quadrant III is 180° + 41.8° = 221.8°.
Therefore, -0 = 138.2° and -0 = 221.8°, to the nearest
tenth of a degree.
17. Identify two different cases when a
trigonometric equation would have no
solution. Give an example to support
each case.
3
18. Find the value of sec θ if cot θ = _ ,
4 Oscilloscopes can measure wave
180° ≤ θ ≤ 270°. functions of varying voltages.

4.4 Introduction to Trigonometric Equations • MHR 213

21. Solve the trigonometric
__
equation C2 A computer determines that a point on
π = √3 the unit circle has coordinates
(
cos x - _
2 ) 2
_ , -π < x < π.
A(0.384 615 384 6, 0.923 076 923 1).
22. Consider the trigonometric equation
a) How can you check whether a point is
sin2 θ + sin θ - 1 = 0. on the unit circle? Use your method to
a) Can you solve the equation by see if A is on the unit circle.
factoring? b) If A is the point where the terminal arm
b) Use the quadratic formula to solve of an angle θ intersects the unit circle,
for sin θ. determine the values of cos θ, tan θ,
c) Determine all solutions for θ in the and csc θ. Give your answers to three
interval 0 < θ ≤ 2π. Give answers to decimal places.
the nearest hundredth of a radian, c) Determine the measure of angle θ, to
if necessary. the nearest tenth of a degree. Does
23. Jaime plans to build a new deck behind this approximate measure for θ seem
her house. It is to be an isosceles trapezoid reasonable for point A? Explain using
shape, as shown. She would like each a diagram.
outer edge of the deck to measure 4 m. C3 Use your knowledge of non-permissible
4m values for rational expressions to answer
the following.
4m 4m a) What is meant by the expression
θ θ “non-permissible values”? Give an
example.
a) Show that the area, A, of the deck
b) Use the fact that any point on
is given by A = 16 sin θ(1 + cos θ).
the unit circle has coordinates
b) Determine the exact value of θ in P(θ) = (cos θ, sin θ) to identify a
radians
__
if the area of the deck is trigonometric relation that could have
2
12 3 m .
√
non-permissible values.
c) The angle in part b) gives the maximum c) For the trigonometric relation that you
area for the deck. How can you prove identified in part b), list all the values
this? Compare your method with that of of θ in the interval 0 ≤ θ < 4π that are
another student. non-permissible.
d) Create a general statement for all the
Create Connections non-permissible values of θ for your
C1 Compare and contrast solving linear and trigonometric relation over the real
quadratic equations with solving linear numbers.
and quadratic trigonometric equations. C4 a) Determine all solutions for the equation
2 sin2 θ = 1 - sin θ in the domain
0° ≤ θ < 360°.
b) Are your solutions exact or
approximate? Why?
c) Show how you can check one of your
solutions to verify its correctness.

214 MHR • Chapter 4

 Chapter 4 Review
4.1 Angles and Angle Measure, 5. Write an expression for all of the angles
pages 166—179 coterminal with each angle. Indicate what
your variable represents.
1. If each angle is in standard position, in
which quadrant does it terminate? a) 250°
a) 100° 5π
b) _
2
b) 500°
c) -300°
c) 10
29π d) 6
d) _
6 6. A jet engine motor cycle is tested
2. Draw each angle in standard position. at 80 000 rpm. What is this angular
Convert each degree measure to radian velocity in
measure and each radian measure to degree
a) radians per minute?
measure. Give answers as exact values.
5π b) degrees per second?
a) _
2
b) 240°
c) -405°
d) -3.5
3. Convert each degree measure to radian
measure and each radian measure
to degree measure. Give answers as
approximate values to the nearest
hundredth, where necessary.
a) 20°
b) -185°
c) -1.75 4.2 The Unit Circle, pages 180—190
5π
d) _
7. P(θ) = (x, y) is the point where the
12 terminal arm of an angle θ intersects the
4. Determine the measure of an angle unit circle. What are the coordinates for
coterminal with each angle in the domain each point?
0° ≤ θ < 360° or 0 ≤ θ < 2π. Draw a 5π
diagram showing the quadrant in which a) P _ ( )
6
each angle terminates.
b) P(-150°)
a) 6.75
11π
b) 400° (
c) P - _
2 )
c) -3 d) P(45°)
d) -105° e) P(120°)
11π
f) P _ ( 3 )

Chapter 4 Review • MHR 215

 __ __
π 1 √3
8. a) If the coordinates for P _ are _ , _ , (3) (2 2 ) √5
(3 2
)
11. If P(θ) = _ , - _ , answer the following
3
questions.
explain how you can determine the
2π , P _
4π , and
coordinates for P _
3 3 ( ) ( ) a) What is the measure of θ? Explain using
a diagram.
5π .
P _
3( ) b) In which quadrant does θ terminate?
b) If the coordinates for P(θ) are c) What are the coordinates of P(θ + π)?
__
( 2√2 1
-_, _ )
, what are the coordinates
3 3
π
( 2)
d) What are the coordinates of P θ + _ ?
π ? π ?
What are the coordinates of P(θ - _
( ) 2)
for P θ + _ e)
2
5π
c) In which quadrant does P _ + π lie?
6 ( )
5π + π 4.3 Trigonometric Ratios, pages 191—205
Explain how you know. If P _
6 ( ) 1
represents P(θ), what is the measure 12. If cos θ = _ , 0° ≤ θ ≤ 270°, what is the
3
of θ and what are the coordinates value of each of the other trigonometric
of P(θ)? ratios of θ? When radicals occur, leave
9. Identify all measures for θ in the interval your answer in exact form.
-2π ≤ θ < 2π such that P(θ) is the given 13. Without using a calculator, determine the
point. exact value of each trigonometric ratio.
3π
a) (0, 1)
__ (
a) sin - _
2 )
b)
2( √3
_
, -_ 1
2 ) b) cos _3π
4
1__ , _1__
(
c) - _
√2 √2 ) __
7π
c) cot _
6
d) sec (-210°)
d) (- ,
2 2 )
1 3 √
_ _
e) tan 720°
10. Identify all measures for θ in the domain f) csc 300°
-180° < θ ≤ 360° such that P(θ) is the 14. Determine the approximate measure of
given point.
__ all angles that satisfy the following. Give
a) - (
2
√3
1
_
, -_
2 ) answers to the nearest hundredth of a unit.
Draw a sketch to show the quadrant(s)
b) (-1, 0) involved.
__ __
c) (
√2 √2
-_, _
2 __2 ) a) sin θ = 0.54, -2π < θ ≤ 2π
b) tan θ = 9.3, -180° ≤ θ < 360°
d)
1
_
2 ( √3
, -_
2 ) c) cos θ = -0.77, -π ≤ θ < π
d) csc θ = 9.5, -270° < θ ≤ 90°

216 MHR • Chapter 4

15. Determine each trigonometric ratio, to 20. Determine the exact roots for each
three decimal places. trigonometric equation.
__
a) sin 285° a) csc θ = √2 , θ ∈ [0°, 360°]
b) cot 130° b) 2 cos θ + 1 = 0, 0 ≤ θ < 2π
__
c) cos 4.5 c) 3 tan θ - √3 = 0, -180° ≤ θ < 360°
d) sec 7.38 d) cot θ + 1 = 0, -π ≤ θ < π
16. The terminal arm of an angle θ in standard 21. Solve for θ. Give solutions as exact
position passes through the point A(-3, 4). values where possible. Otherwise, give
a) Draw the angle and use a protractor to approximate measures, to the nearest
determine its measure, to the nearest thousandth.
degree. a) sin2 θ + sin θ - 2 = 0, 0 ≤ θ < 2π
b) Show how to determine the exact value b) tan2 θ + 3 tan θ = 0, 0° < θ ≤ 360°
of cos θ. c) 6 cos2 θ + cos θ = 1, θ ∈ (0°, 360°)
c) What is the exact value of csc θ + tan θ? d) sec2 θ - 4 = 0, θ ∈ [-π, π]
d) From the value of cos θ, determine the 22. Determine a domain
__ for which the
measure of θ in degrees and in radians, √3
equation sin θ = _ would have the
to the nearest tenth. 2
following solution.
π 2π
a) θ = _ , _
4.4 Introduction to Trigonometric Equations, 3 3
pages 206—214 5π 4π π
b) θ = - _ , - _ , _
3 3 3
17. Factor each trigonometric expression. c) θ = -660°, -600°, -300°, -240°
a) cos2 θ + cos θ d) θ = -240°, 60°, 120°, 420°
2
b) sin θ - 3 sin θ - 4 23. Determine each general solution using the
2
c) cot θ - 9 angle measure specified.
1
a) sin x = - _ , in radians
d) 2 tan2 θ - 9 tan θ + 10 2
18. Explain why it is impossible to find each b) sin x = sin2 x, in degrees
of the following values. c) sec x + 2 = 0, in degrees
__
a) sin -1
2 d) (tan x - 1)(tan x - √3 ) = 0, in radians
b) tan 90°
19. Without solving, determine the number of
solutions for each trigonometric equation
or statement in the specified domain.
a) 4 cos θ - 3 = 0, 0° < θ ≤ 360°
b) sin θ + 0.9 = 0, -π ≤ θ ≤ π
c) 0.5 tan θ - 1.5 = 0, -180° ≤ θ ≤ 0°
d) csc θ is undefined, θ ∈ [-2π, 4π)

Chapter 4 Review • MHR 217

 Chapter 4 Practice Test
Multiple Choice 5. Determine the number of solutions
for the trigonometric equation
For #1 to #5, choose the best answer.
__
sin θ (sin θ + 1) = 0, -180° < θ < 360°.
√3 A 3
1. If cos θ = _ , which could be the measure
2
of θ? B 4
2π 5π 5π 11π C 5
A _ B _ C _ D _
3 6 3 6
D 6
2. Which exact __
measures of θ satisfy
√3
_
sin θ = - , 0° ≤ θ < 360°? Short Answer
2
A 60°, 120° 6. A vehicle has tires that are 75 cm in
B -60°, -120° diameter. A point is marked on the edge
C 240°, 300° of the tire.
D -240°, -300° a) Determine the measure of the angle
through which the point turns every
3. If cot θ = 1.4, what is one approximate
second if the vehicle is travelling
measure in radians for θ?
at 110 km/h. Give your answer
A 0.620 in degrees and in radians, to the
B 0.951 nearest tenth.
C 1.052 b) What is the answer in radians if the
D 0.018 diameter of the tire is 66 cm? Do you
4. The coordinates of point P on the
think that tire diameter affects tire
__ life? Explain.
unit circle are - _
4 4
√7
3, _
( )
. What are
7. a) What is the equation for any circle
the coordinates of Q if Q is a 90° with centre at the origin and radius
counterclockwise rotation from P? 1 unit?
__
A (
√7
_
4
3
, -_
__
4 ) b) Determine the value(s) for the missing
coordinate for all points on the unit
( √7
B -_, -_
4
3
4 ) circle satisfying the given conditions.
Draw diagrams.
__
__
C (_34 , _47 )
√

__
i) (5 )
2√3
_ ,y
__
D (-_43 , -_47 )
√
ii) (x,
√
_
4 )
7
,x<0
y
c) Explain how to use the equation for the
unit circle to find the value of cos θ if
P you know the y-coordinate of the point
where the terminal arm of an angle θ
in standard position intersects the
0 x unit circle.

218 MHR • Chapter 4

 8. Suppose that the cosine of an angle is 14. Draw any ABC with A at the origin,
negative and that you found one solution side AB along the positive x-axis, and
in quadrant III. C in quadrant I. Show that the area of
a) Explain how to find the other solution your triangle can be expressed as
between 0 and 2π. 1 bc sin A or _
_ 1 ac sin B.
2 2
b) Describe how to write the general
15. Solve for θ. Give solutions as exact
solution.
__ values where possible. Otherwise, give
9. Solve the equation 2 cos θ + √2 = 0, approximate measures to the nearest
where θ ∈ R. hundredth.
10. Explain the difference between an angle a) 3 tan2 θ - tan θ - 4 = 0, -π < θ < 2π
measuring 3° and one measuring 3 radians. b) sin2 θ + sin θ - 1 = 0, 0 ≤ θ < 2π
11. An angle in standard position
c) tan2 θ = 4 tan θ, θ ∈ [0, 2π]
measures -500°.
16. Jack chooses a horse to ride on the West
a) In which quadrant does -500°
Edmonton Mall carousel. The horse is
terminate? located 8 m from the centre of the carousel.
b) What is the measure of the reference If the carousel turns through an angle of
angle? 210° before stopping to let a crying child
c) What is the approximate value, to one get off, how far did Jack travel? Give
decimal place, of each trigonometric your answer as both an exact value and
ratio for -500°? an approximate measure to the nearest
12. Identify one positive and one negative hundredth of a metre.
angle measure that is coterminal with each
angle. Then, write a general expression for
all the coterminal angles in each case.
a) _
13π
4
b) -575°

Extended Response
13. The diagram shows a stretch of road
from A to E. The curves are arcs of
circles. Determine the length of the road
from A to E. Give your answer to the
nearest tenth of a kilometre.
E
A B 1 km
1.9 km 2.5 km
1.3 km
1.48 79°
C D

Chapter 4 Practice Test • MHR 219