Open the App

Subjects

MathsMaths356 views·Updated 21 Aug 2026·5 pages

Easy Trigonometry: Fun With Trigonometric Identities, Cosine Rule, and Quadratic Problems

user profile picture
Kate@katerevisionotes

A comprehensive guide to trigonometric identities and equations examples,...

1
of 5
AQA Pure Math- Trigonometry- Year 1 and 2 – page 1

Page 2: Advanced Trigonometric Functions

This page delves into transformations of trigonometric functions and essential identities.

Vocabulary: Cast diagrams are visual tools used to determine the signs of trigonometric ratios in different quadrants.

Definition: The fundamental trigonometric identity sin²θ + cos²θ = 1 forms the basis for many trigonometric proofs.

Example: When solving 2cosx = -1 in the range -180° ≤ x ≤ 540°, solutions are found at x = 120°, 240°

2
of 5
AQA Pure Math- Trigonometry- Year 1 and 2 – page 2

Page 3: Complex Trigonometric Applications

This section covers advanced topics including quadratic trigonometry and compound angles.

Highlight: Quadratic trigonometry factorization problems can be solved by treating trigonometric equations as standard quadratic equations.

Definition: Compound angle formulae:

  • sinA+BA+B = sinA cosB + cosA sinB
  • cosA+BA+B = cosA cosB - sinA sinB

Example: The equation tan²x - 2tanx = 0 can be factored as tanxtanx2tanx - 2 = 0

3
of 5
AQA Pure Math- Trigonometry- Year 1 and 2 – page 3

Page 4: Double Angle Formulae and R-Addition

This page explores double angle formulae and R-addition techniques.

Definition: Double angle formulae include:

  • sin(2A) = 2sinA cosA
  • cos(2A) = cos²A - sin²A

Example: For R-addition formula, 5cosx - 12sinx can be written as 13cosx+67.38°x + 67.38°

Highlight: The R-addition formula transforms expressions of the form asinx + bcosx into Rsinx+αx + α or Rcosx+αx + α

4
of 5
AQA Pure Math- Trigonometry- Year 1 and 2 – page 4

Page 5: Advanced Trigonometric Proofs

The final page focuses on complex trigonometric proofs and properties.

Example: Proving relationships involving tangent and cotangent functions requires careful manipulation of basic identities.

Highlight: Advanced proofs often involve converting expressions to simpler forms using fundamental identities.

Definition: The relationship between tangent and cotangent functions is essential for solving complex trigonometric equations.

5
of 5
AQA Pure Math- Trigonometry- Year 1 and 2 – page 5

Page 1: Fundamental Trigonometric Concepts

This page introduces the core concepts of trigonometry, focusing on basic ratios and rules for triangle calculations.

Definition: Trigonometric ratios are defined as relationships between sides of right-angled triangles:

  • sine = opposite/hypotenuse
  • cosine = adjacent/hypotenuse
  • tangent = opposite/adjacent

Highlight: The cosine rule (a² = b² + c² - 2bc cosA) is essential for solving non-right angled triangles with cosine rule.

Example: Trigonometric graphs show the periodic nature of functions, with sin curves ranging between -1 and 1.

We thought you’d never ask...

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Similar content

Most popular content: Pythagorean Identities

1

Most popular content in Maths

2

Most popular content

6
SociologySociology

Comprehensive Crime & Deviance Overview

Explore an extensive revision of crime and deviance topics, including theories, types of crime, and the impact of media. This resource covers key concepts such as Marxism, functionalism, gender and crime, and the influence of globalization on criminal behavior. Ideal for students seeking a thorough understanding of criminology and its various theories. Type: Full Topic Revision.

1251,7111,402
SociologySociology

Sociology of Families: Comprehensive Revision

Dive into an extensive overview of family dynamics, perspectives, and patterns in sociology. This resource covers key concepts such as family diversity, gender roles, marriage, and the impact of social policies on family structures. Perfect for A-Level Sociology students preparing for Paper 2.

1273,8972,306
CriminologyCriminology

Criminology: Crime & Punishment Overview

Comprehensive mindmaps covering key concepts in the Crime and Punishment topic for WJEC Criminology Unit 4. This resource includes detailed insights into the Criminal Justice System, crime prevention strategies, sentencing models, and the roles of various agencies. Ideal for A-Level revision, ensuring you grasp essential theories and legislative processes to excel in your exams.

1254,9161,061
CriminologyCriminology

WJEC Unit 4 Criminology

Criminology unit 4 detailed revision note

127,186125
SociologySociology

Media Studies: Key Concepts & Theories

Dive into the essential concepts and theories of media studies for AQA A-level Sociology. This comprehensive revision guide covers topics such as media influence, representations, globalization, and sociological perspectives, ensuring you grasp the critical elements needed for your exams. Perfect for students seeking to enhance their understanding of media's role in society.

1222,756515
SociologySociology

Sociology of Education Overview

Explore comprehensive A-Level Sociology notes on the education system, covering key theories, policies, and sociological perspectives. This resource includes insights on marketisation, gender roles, cultural deprivation, and educational inequalities, providing a thorough understanding of how education shapes social stratification and individual achievement. Ideal for exam preparation and in-depth study.

12103,0633,042

Students love us — and so will you.

4.6/5App Store
4.7/5Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan SiOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha KlichAndroid user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

AnnaiOS user

MathsMaths356 views·Updated 21 Aug 2026·5 pages

Easy Trigonometry: Fun With Trigonometric Identities, Cosine Rule, and Quadratic Problems

user profile picture
Kate@katerevisionotes

A comprehensive guide to trigonometric identities and equations examples, covering fundamental concepts and advanced applications in trigonometry.

  • Explores essential trigonometric ratios (sine, cosine, tangent) and their relationships in right-angled triangles
  • Details methods for solving non-right angled triangles with cosine...
1
of 5
AQA Pure Math- Trigonometry- Year 1 and 2 – page 1

Sign up to see the content. It's free!

  • Access to all documents
  • Improve your grades
  • Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Page 2: Advanced Trigonometric Functions

This page delves into transformations of trigonometric functions and essential identities.

Vocabulary: Cast diagrams are visual tools used to determine the signs of trigonometric ratios in different quadrants.

Definition: The fundamental trigonometric identity sin²θ + cos²θ = 1 forms the basis for many trigonometric proofs.

Example: When solving 2cosx = -1 in the range -180° ≤ x ≤ 540°, solutions are found at x = 120°, 240°

2
of 5
AQA Pure Math- Trigonometry- Year 1 and 2 – page 2

Sign up to see the content. It's free!

  • Access to all documents
  • Improve your grades
  • Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Page 3: Complex Trigonometric Applications

This section covers advanced topics including quadratic trigonometry and compound angles.

Highlight: Quadratic trigonometry factorization problems can be solved by treating trigonometric equations as standard quadratic equations.

Definition: Compound angle formulae:

  • sinA+BA+B = sinA cosB + cosA sinB
  • cosA+BA+B = cosA cosB - sinA sinB

Example: The equation tan²x - 2tanx = 0 can be factored as tanxtanx2tanx - 2 = 0

3
of 5
AQA Pure Math- Trigonometry- Year 1 and 2 – page 3

Sign up to see the content. It's free!

  • Access to all documents
  • Improve your grades
  • Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Page 4: Double Angle Formulae and R-Addition

This page explores double angle formulae and R-addition techniques.

Definition: Double angle formulae include:

  • sin(2A) = 2sinA cosA
  • cos(2A) = cos²A - sin²A

Example: For R-addition formula, 5cosx - 12sinx can be written as 13cosx+67.38°x + 67.38°

Highlight: The R-addition formula transforms expressions of the form asinx + bcosx into Rsinx+αx + α or Rcosx+αx + α

4
of 5
AQA Pure Math- Trigonometry- Year 1 and 2 – page 4

Sign up to see the content. It's free!

  • Access to all documents
  • Improve your grades
  • Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Page 5: Advanced Trigonometric Proofs

The final page focuses on complex trigonometric proofs and properties.

Example: Proving relationships involving tangent and cotangent functions requires careful manipulation of basic identities.

Highlight: Advanced proofs often involve converting expressions to simpler forms using fundamental identities.

Definition: The relationship between tangent and cotangent functions is essential for solving complex trigonometric equations.

5
of 5
AQA Pure Math- Trigonometry- Year 1 and 2 – page 5

Sign up to see the content. It's free!

  • Access to all documents
  • Improve your grades
  • Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Page 1: Fundamental Trigonometric Concepts

This page introduces the core concepts of trigonometry, focusing on basic ratios and rules for triangle calculations.

Definition: Trigonometric ratios are defined as relationships between sides of right-angled triangles:

  • sine = opposite/hypotenuse
  • cosine = adjacent/hypotenuse
  • tangent = opposite/adjacent

Highlight: The cosine rule (a² = b² + c² - 2bc cosA) is essential for solving non-right angled triangles with cosine rule.

Example: Trigonometric graphs show the periodic nature of functions, with sin curves ranging between -1 and 1.

We thought you’d never ask...

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Similar content

Most popular content: Pythagorean Identities

1

Most popular content in Maths

2

Most popular content

6
SociologySociology

Comprehensive Crime & Deviance Overview

Explore an extensive revision of crime and deviance topics, including theories, types of crime, and the impact of media. This resource covers key concepts such as Marxism, functionalism, gender and crime, and the influence of globalization on criminal behavior. Ideal for students seeking a thorough understanding of criminology and its various theories. Type: Full Topic Revision.

1251,7111,402
SociologySociology

Sociology of Families: Comprehensive Revision

Dive into an extensive overview of family dynamics, perspectives, and patterns in sociology. This resource covers key concepts such as family diversity, gender roles, marriage, and the impact of social policies on family structures. Perfect for A-Level Sociology students preparing for Paper 2.

1273,8972,306
CriminologyCriminology

Criminology: Crime & Punishment Overview

Comprehensive mindmaps covering key concepts in the Crime and Punishment topic for WJEC Criminology Unit 4. This resource includes detailed insights into the Criminal Justice System, crime prevention strategies, sentencing models, and the roles of various agencies. Ideal for A-Level revision, ensuring you grasp essential theories and legislative processes to excel in your exams.

1254,9161,061
CriminologyCriminology

WJEC Unit 4 Criminology

Criminology unit 4 detailed revision note

127,186125
SociologySociology

Media Studies: Key Concepts & Theories

Dive into the essential concepts and theories of media studies for AQA A-level Sociology. This comprehensive revision guide covers topics such as media influence, representations, globalization, and sociological perspectives, ensuring you grasp the critical elements needed for your exams. Perfect for students seeking to enhance their understanding of media's role in society.

1222,756515
SociologySociology

Sociology of Education Overview

Explore comprehensive A-Level Sociology notes on the education system, covering key theories, policies, and sociological perspectives. This resource includes insights on marketisation, gender roles, cultural deprivation, and educational inequalities, providing a thorough understanding of how education shapes social stratification and individual achievement. Ideal for exam preparation and in-depth study.

12103,0633,042

Students love us — and so will you.

4.6/5App Store
4.7/5Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan SiOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha KlichAndroid user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

AnnaiOS user