If sin(x) = 8/17 and x is an acute angle, find cot(x). Please draw a reference triangle
Thank you!
Acute angle so sin and cos are positive and so is cot = cos/sin
sin^2 + cos^2 = 1
cos ^2 = 1- (8/17)2 = 225 / 289
cos = 15/17
cot = cos / sin = .........
The question asked for a reference triangle.
Remember that sin is opposite over hypotenuse, meaning that the side opposite to angle with measure $x$ is $8$ and the hypotenuse is $17$. Use the Pythagorean theorem to find the other side. Then, use that $\cot(x)=\frac{\cos(x)}{\sin(x)}$, recalling that $\cos=\frac{\text{adjacent}}{\text{hypotenuse}}$.
(Remember: Soh Cah Toa!)