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Fundamental Trig Identities


Mike McGarry
Lesson by Mike McGarry
Magoosh Expert

Summary
The content provides an in-depth exploration of the six trigonometric functions, emphasizing the importance of understanding their relationships and applications, particularly in the context of the SAT exam.
  • Introduction to the six trigonometric functions derived from the SOHCAHTOA triangle, including sine, cosine, tangent, cotangent, secant, and cosecant.
  • Explanation of the geometric origins of cotangent, secant, and cosecant, and their relationships to sine and cosine.
  • Discussion on the reciprocal nature of the trigonometric functions and the significance of memorizing these relationships for the SAT exam.
  • Overview of the Pythagorean identities and their derivations, highlighting their utility in solving problems and their critical role in calculus.
  • Practical application through a practice problem, demonstrating how to apply trigonometric identities and the Pythagorean theorem to solve for unknown variables.
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Trigonometric Functions
01:35
Geometric Origins and Reciprocal Relationships
04:34
Understanding and Applying Pythagorean Identities
06:34
Practical Application and Problem Solving