Which is smaller, sin64∘ or cos64∘ ?
a) cos64∘
b) sin64∘
c) cannot be compared
d) both are equalIntuitive explanation
The key insight is to use the complementary angle relationship: sinθ=cos(90°−θ). Since sin64°=cos26°, you're really comparing cos26° and cos64°. Because cosine is a decreasing function on [0°,180°], the larger angle gives the smaller cosine value—so cos64°<cos26°.
Intuitive explanation
The key insight is to use the complementary angle relationship: sinθ=cos(90°−θ). Since sin64°=cos26°, you're really comparing cos26° and cos64°. Because cosine is a decreasing function on [0°,180°], the larger angle gives the smaller cosine value—so cos64°<cos26°.