All Six Trigonometric Functions
The six trigonometric functions are the fundamental building blocks of trigonometry. Given an angle, each function returns a specific ratio related to a right triangle or the unit circle. This calculator evaluates all six at once, saving time and providing a complete picture.
Function Definitions
sin and csc
Sine is the y-coordinate on the unit circle. Cosecant is its reciprocal.
cos and sec
Cosine is the x-coordinate on the unit circle. Secant is its reciprocal.
tan and cot
Tangent is sine/cosine. Cotangent is its reciprocal.
Quadrant Sign Rules (ASTC)
The mnemonic "All Students Take Calculus" helps remember which functions are positive in each quadrant: All in Q I, Sine in Q II, Tangent in Q III, Cosine in Q IV. The reciprocal functions follow the same sign as their primary counterpart.
Reference Angles
A reference angle is the acute angle formed between the terminal side and the x-axis. It is always between 0 and 90 degrees and helps determine the absolute value of trig functions in any quadrant.