What Is the Opposite of a Trig Function?

In summary, the conversation discussed the term "inverse" in relation to trig functions and how it can be confused with notation for the reciprocal. The correct term for the opposite of a trig function is "inverse," which is different from the reciprocal indicated by a -1 exponent. It was also mentioned that the inverse of a trig function can be represented by a -1, but this is not always the case.
  • #1
Jules18
102
0
"Inverse" trig?

I'm trying to think of a word that describes the opposite of a trig function.
It's like inverse, but I know that's not exactly the right word because inverse means literally "1 over" the function.
It's the type of function you get when you press "2nd function" before you press Sin or Cos or whatever.

I'm pretty sure it starts with "i" ... does anyone know what I'm talking about? :confused:
 
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  • #2


I think you are looking for the word "inverse" and confusing notation with -1. 1 over something is usually called the reciprocal and is also indicated by a -1 exponent (x-1 = 1/x).
Sometimes a -1 does mean inverse. The inverse of sine (with a restricted domain) is arcsin x = sin-1x ≠ (sin x)-1 = 1/sinx.
 
  • #3


ahhhh okay yeah I always confuse those two
 

FAQ: What Is the Opposite of a Trig Function?

What are the six basic trigonometric functions?

The six basic trigonometric functions are sine, cosine, tangent, cotangent, secant, and cosecant.

What is the opposite of a trig function?

The opposite of a trig function is the inverse trigonometric function, which is used to find the angle associated with a given ratio of sides in a right triangle.

How do you find the opposite of a trig function?

The opposite of a trig function can be found by using the inverse trigonometric function on the given ratio of sides. For example, if you have the ratio of the opposite side to the adjacent side in a right triangle, you can use the inverse tangent function to find the angle.

What is the relationship between trig functions and their opposites?

The relationship between trig functions and their opposites is that they are inverse functions of each other. This means that when one function is applied to a value, the other function can be applied to the result to get back the original value.

Why are inverse trig functions important?

Inverse trig functions are important because they allow us to solve for angles in a right triangle when given information about the sides. They are also used in many real-world applications, such as navigation, engineering, and physics.

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