This week, are learning how to find the missing side length of a right triangle using trigonometry. In this unit, we learn simple equations that will help us uncover the sides, But first, let’s talk about naming the sides.

Side Titles:

Hypotenuse: The side titled “hypotenuse” (or “H”) is the side that is always across from the 90 degrees sign. It is easy to determine the hypotenuse if you also know that it will always be the longest side of the right triangle.

Adjacent: The side titles “adjacent” (or “A”) is the side the beside the reference angle. We are able to determine this side by finding the reference angle and discovering the side that is the closest to that angle.

Opposite: The side titled “opposite” (or “O”) is the side that is opposite to the reference angle. We are able to determine this side by finding the reference angle and discovering the side that is the furthest away from that angle.