Definition:
Trigonometry is a branch of mathematics concerned with the study of triangles and the relationships between their sides and angles. It explores concepts such as sine, cosine, and tangent functions, which are fundamental to solving problems involving angles and distances in various fields, including physics, engineering, and astronomy.
Etymology & Origin:
The term “trigonometry” originates from the Greek words “trigonon,” meaning “triangle,” and “metron,” meaning “measure.” This reflects the discipline’s focus on measuring triangles and understanding their properties. Trigonometry has ancient roots, with early developments found in ancient Egyptian, Babylonian, and Greek mathematics.
Examples:
- Calculating the height of a building using trigonometric ratios and the angle of elevation.
- Analyzing the motion of objects using trigonometric functions in physics and engineering.
- Determining the positions of celestial objects using trigonometry in astronomy and navigation.
