I can apply the reciprocal trig functions to find the missing parts of right triangles.

what do you mean reciprocal trig functions?

There are actually SIX trig functions. We have already talked about sin, cos, and tan. The other three are called the "reciprocal" trig functions because they are each a reciprocal of one of the O.G. trig functions.

You will need to remember (hint: write down) at least part of this table. In particular, you need to know that:

sin goes with csc

cos goes with sec

tan goes with cot

what do we do with this grand new knowledge?

You can solve problems using these trig functions in much the same way as we have been doing! When you use SOHCAHTOA for csc, sec, or cot, you simply flip the formula upside down from it's reciprocal function. So, if sin(x) = opp/hyp, then csc(x) = hyp/opp

before we do examples, how do you evaluate these functions in your calculator?

Most calculators don't have a button for csc, sec, or cot. You have to convert them to their reciprocal functions and solve them that way. So:

csc(60) = 1/sin(60)

in your calculator

Let's do some examples!

Let's start our work together. Work on your own when you're ready!

Complete these problems (front is required. Answer key in the usual spot!)

Challenge Work