Basic trig functions - practice problems

These problems are designed to help you learn basic trigonometry ("trig") functions and how to use your calculator correctly.
Try solving these on your own (without peaking at the solutions). You may want to download a sheet with all the questions (Acrobat (PDF) 33kB Jul25 09) to print out and try. If you need help, look at the hidden solutions. You may use a calculator.

Calculating sine, cosine, and tangent

Problem 1. The angle of repose for sand is typically about 35°. What is the sine of this angle?

1. Type 35 into your calculator
2. press the sin button.
3. Your calculator should read 0.574.
   If you do not get the correct answer, check to make sure that your calculator is in degree mode.

Problem 2. When driving, a steep hill is typically only 12°. What is the cosine of this angle?

1. Type 12 into your calculator
   
2. press the cos button.
   
3. Your calculator should read 0.978.

Problem 3. The angle that waves hit a shoreline is 75°. What is the tangent of this angle?

1. Type 75 into your calculator
   
2. press the tan button.
   
3. Your calculator should read 0.0879.

For the next three problems, use the photo of Mount Rainier below.

Problem 4. What is the sine of angle A?