Trigonometry - Simple Identities
What is a trigonometric identity?
- Trigonometric identities are statements that are true for all values of x or theta (θ)
- They are used to help simplify trig equations before solving them
- The first two identities you must know are:
Where do these identities come from?
- Although you don’t need to know the proof for these identities it is important to understand where they come from
How to use the identities
Exam Tip
- If asked to show one thing is identical (≡) another look at what parts are missing – for example, if tan x has gone it must have been substituted.