Mathematics

Mathematics

Problem

If cot⁡θ=724\cot\theta = \dfrac{7}{24} and θ\theta is acute, show that csc⁡θ=2524\csc\theta = \dfrac{25}{24}.
Intuitive explanation

The key is to use the Pythagorean identity that connects cotangent and cosecant. Since cot⁡θ=adjacentopposite\cot\theta = \frac{\text{adjacent}}{\text{opposite}}, you can build a right triangle with those sides, then find the hypotenuse using the Pythagorean theorem. Once you have all three sides, csc⁡θ\csc\theta (the reciprocal of sine) follows directly.

Intuitive explanation

The key is to use the Pythagorean identity that connects cotangent and cosecant. Since cot⁡θ=adjacentopposite\cot\theta = \frac{\text{adjacent}}{\text{opposite}}, you can build a right triangle with those sides, then find the hypotenuse using the Pythagorean theorem. Once you have all three sides, csc⁡θ\csc\theta (the reciprocal of sine) follows directly.

Browse the problem library