Title: The Basics: Angles & Triangles
Course: Open MAT107 Contextualized > Section: Angles & Triangles

The Basics:

Angles & Triangles

The information in this section is specific information for the angle and triangle problems that you will see in the video demonstrations.   There is just too much information on angles and triangles to list it all!   If you need more information that what is provided below, please check out this file:  Module VI - Angles & Triangles2011.pdf

Pythagorean Theorem:
In trigonometry (meaning “triangle measure”), much emphasis is placed on solving right triangles (finding the measure of all angles and measure of all sides). In that process, the Pythagorean Theorem is used extensively.

The Pythagorean Theorem states that in any right triangle with hypotenuse c, and legs a and b then

Note: The hypotenuse is the longest length of the triangle and the legs are the 2 shorter lengths.

Finding Triangle Lengths Given Angles

To find lengths of missing sides of a right triangle, you need to use the tangent function on your calculator.

Tangent Function: In any right triangle given an interior angle θ (Theta) and the sides opposite and adjacent to θ, we can define the following equation:

(“tan” means tangent and it can be found on most scientific calculators.)

Watch these helpful Khan Academy videos for more information:

Introduction to the Pythagorean Theorem

The Pythagorean Theorem

Basic Trigonometry

Example: Converting degrees to radians

Now move on to the energy technology video demonstrations. When you are ready, take the practice quiz to show what you know. If you think you need more practice, ask your instructor if the optional practice assignments would help you.