Trigonometric Ratios: From Lengths to Coordinates
Explore how the definition of trigonometric ratios shifts from “ratios of lengths” to “ratios of coordinates” in this activity.
Compare the two definitions of trigonometric ratios and describe what stays the same and what changes.
Explain why the right‑triangle definition of trigonometric ratios is insufficient and why the coordinate definition is necessary.
Trigonometric ratios change as the angle changes. What kinds of real‑world phenomena can be explained by quantities that vary with angle? Give some examples from everyday life.