Trigonometry For Dummies, 2nd Edition

Chapter 16

Making Inverse Trig Work for You

In This Chapter

Solving inverse functions

Using a scientific calculator correctly

Dealing with multiple-angle inverse functions

Using identities to calculate inverses

In Chapter 15, I introduce you to the six inverse trig functions. As with many introductions to something new, it may take a while to place the name with the face (or in this case, properties). This chapter, on the other hand, takes you deeper into the world of inverses and shows how the inverses of trig functions work. You'll also see why you'd even want to bother learning the names with their good traits or bad.

Working with Inverses

The easiest way to work with inverse trig functions is to have a chart handy with the exact values of the functions, which you can find in the Appendix. When angles other than the most common or popular are involved, you can either use a table such as the one in the Appendix or get out your handy-dandy scientific calculator.

This first example on evaluating an inverse uses the exact value from a chart. Find .

1. Determine the reference angle ...