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

3224 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Differentiate the function f(x) = 2x^3 + (cos(x))^2 + e^x


If y = 4x^3 - 6x^2 + 7 work out dy/dx for this expression


Find the area bounded by the curve x^3-3x^2+2x and the x-axis between x=0 and x=1.


Find dy/dx of 5x^2 + 2y^3 +8 =17.


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning