Topic explanation

Standard explanation

Isolate the trig expression, apply an inverse for a principal value, then use periodic families if all solutions are required.

Key points

• Inverse trig equations
• rule
• worked example
• Inverse trig equations: Isolate the trig expression, apply an inverse for a principal value, then use periodic families if a
• CONCEPT AND RULE: Isolate the trig expression, apply an inverse for a principal value, then use periodic families if a
• METHOD: For inverse trig equations, identify the given information and required result. Select the matching
• Isolate the trig expression, apply an inverse for a principal value, then use periodic families if all solutions are required.
• Worked pattern: sin x=0.5 gives x=pi/6 or 5pi/6 modulo 2pi.

Labelled diagram