What Is Trigonometry?
Trigonometry is the branch of mathematics that studies relationships between the sides and angles of triangles.
Definition
Trigonometry is derived from Greek words meaning "triangle measure." It defines relationships between angles and side lengths, especially in right-angled triangles.
Angles & Sides
Every angle in a triangle corresponds to a unique ratio of side lengths. The six trigonometric functions—sin, cos, tan, csc, sec, cot—express those ratios.
Right Triangles
A right triangle has a 90° angle. Its sides are labeled opposite, adjacent, and hypotenuse relative to a reference angle, forming the basis of SOHCAHTOA.
Real-World Use
From bridge design to GPS, video games to astronomy, trigonometry powers calculations that involve distance, height, angles, and periodic motion.
Beyond Triangles
Trig functions extend to the unit circle, describing periodic waves used in sound, light, electricity, signal processing, and quantum physics.
Why It Matters
Trigonometry bridges algebra and geometry, providing the mathematical language for engineering, science, architecture, and modern computing.