Tangent Function

beginnertrigonometrybasic ratios

Defines tangent as ratio in a right triangle

The Formula

tan(θ) = opposite / adjacent

Variables & Symbols

θ

Angle

opposite

Side opposite to angle

adjacent

Side adjacent to angle

When to Use This Formula

  • Finding slopes
  • Angle of elevation problems
  • Physics

Worked Examples

Example 1

Problem:

opposite=3, adjacent=4, find tan(θ)

Solution: tan(θ) = 0.75

Step-by-Step:

1

tan(θ) = 3/4 = 0.75

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Dividing in wrong order

Real-World Applications

1

Surveying

2

Navigation

3

Architecture

Practice Problems

Problem 1: tan(45°) = ?

Show Answer

Answer: 1

Related Formulas

sine definition

View Formula →

cosine definition

View Formula →

Tags:

trigonometrytangentratios

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