CLEP Precalculus covers essential mathematical concepts and skills necessary for success in calculus and higher-level mathematics.
Trigonometric functions, like sine, cosine, and tangent, relate angles to side lengths in right triangles and describe periodic phenomena.
The unit circle helps visualize these functions for all angles, not just those in triangles. Every point on the unit circle has coordinates (\( \cos\theta, \sin\theta \)).
Trigonometric functions model waves, sound, and light. Engineers use them for designing everything from bridges to audio equipment.
Use identities and inverse functions to solve equations and model cycles in nature and technology.
\[y = A \sin(Bx + C) + D\]
A sound wave can be modeled as \( y = 5\sin(2\pi t) \).
Finding the height of a tree using its shadow and angle of elevation.
Trigonometric functions describe cycles, angles, and waves, and are fundamental in science and engineering.