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Geometry and TrigonometryHardComplementary angle identity

Geometry and Trigonometry practice question

In right triangle DEF, angle F is the right angle and the measure of angle D is 50°. Which of the following is equal to sin E?

  1. A. cos 50°Correct
  2. B. sin 50°
  3. C. cos 40°
  4. D. tan 40°

Answer: A. cos 50°

Angle E measures 40°, and sin 40° = cos 50° because the two angles are complementary.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. sin 50°
sin 50° is sin D, not sin E.
C. cos 40°
cos 40° equals sin 50°, not sin 40°.
D. tan 40°
tan 40° is a different ratio.

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