Using Pythagoras' theorem, show that sin^2(x)+cos^2(x)=1 for all x.

Take a right angled triangle with hypotenuse of length 1, and angle at the bottom of the hypotenuse equal to x. We will let o denote the length of the side opposite the angle, and a denote the length of the side adjacent to the angle.
Using SOHCAHTOA, we know that sin(x)=o/1=o, and cos(x)=a/1=a.
So we now have a right angled triangle with a hypotenuse of length 1, another side of length sin(x), and a side of length cos(x). Using Pythagoras' theorem, we know that o^2+a^2=1^2, and so sin^2(x)+cos^2(x)=1.

Answered by Maths tutor

3164 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Find the stable points of the following function, determine wether or not they are maxima or minima. y= 5x^3 +9x^2 +3x +2


Split (3x-4)/(x+2)(x-3) into partial fractions


Solve the equation 3 sin^2 theta = 4 cos theta − 1 for 0 ≤ theta ≤ 360


How do I find the solution of the simultaneous equations x+3y=7 and 5x+2y=8


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning