13-8 Reciprocal Trigonometric Functions

Objectives

To evaluate reciprocal trigonometric functions

To graph reciprocal trigonometric functions

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To solve an equation a x = b , eh x equals b comma  you multiply each side by the reciprocal of a. If a is a trigonometric expression, you need to use its reciprocal.

Essential Understanding Cosine, sine, and tangent have reciprocals. Cosine and secant are reciprocals as are sine and cosecant. Tangent and cotangent are also reciprocals.

You can use the unit circle to evaluate the reciprocal trigonometric functions directly. Suppose the terminal side of an angle θ in standard position intersects the unit circle at the point (x, y).

Then csc θ = 1 y , sec θ = 1 x , cot θ = x y . co-secant theta equals , 1 over y , comma secant theta equals , 1 over x , comma co-tangent theta equals , x over y , .

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