Mathematics: Using trig in the real world

For a step-by-step explanation about how to use trig to solve right triangle problems, read this terrific explanation from mathopenref.com. The examples in this explanation use feet instead of metres. If you find a great example in metres, please post it in the "Suggest a link" block on the right. Thanks!

This page at purplemath.com shows the steps needed for solving right triangle word problems. The emphasis is on drawing a correct diagram to represent the problem.

Try printing the above worksheet and working out some real-life trig problems on your own. (Problems #2 and #3). The answers can be found at http://www.funmaths.com/worksheets/downloads/view.htm?ws0038_2.gif.

Examples 3 and 4 in this tutorial by intmath.com give you a chance to check your understanding. Worked-out solutions are provided.

The video above explains how to use basic trig functions on a Casio fx-991 calculator.

0.44 min - setting up 'degree' mode
3.17 min - find an unknown angle