APPLICATIONS OF

TRIGONOMETRIC
FUNCTIONS
UNIVERSTIY OF BAGHDAD
AL-KHWARZIMI COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
AUTOMATED MANUFACTURING ENGINEERING

Abdullah Araz Nabeel | Engineering Mathematics | 4/24/2024

Supervised by: MSC Intisar S. Ali

Introduction:
Trigonometry, the branch of mathematics that describes the
relationship between the angles and lengths of triangles, helped
early explorers plot the stars and navigate the seas. Nowadays,
trigonometry is found in everything from architecture to zigzag
scissors. While it may seem as if trigonometry is never used
outside of the classroom, you may be surprised to learn just how
often trigonometry and its applications are encountered in the
real world.
Applications of Trigonometry can be found in different fields in
our day-to-day lives. One of the well-known fields is astronomy
where trigonometry helps in determining the distances of the
Earth from the planets and stars. It is used in constructing maps
in geography and navigation. Applications of trigonometry are
also used in finding an island's position in relation to the
longitudes and latitudes. Even today, some of the
technologically advanced methods which are used in
engineering and physical sciences are based on the concepts of
trigonometry. Let us learn more about the applications of
trigonometry and see a few examples related to it.

What is the Application of Trigonometry?

Applications of trigonometry are applied in areas such as
architecture, celestial mechanics, surveying, etc. The most
common fields are astronomy and physics where it helps in
finding the distance between the stars and planets, the path in
motion, and analyzing the waves. Some of the applications
include:

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 Various fields like oceanography, seismology, meteorology,
physical sciences, astronomy, acoustics, navigation,
electronics, and many more.
 It is also helpful to find the distance of long rivers, measure
the height of the mountain, etc.
 Spherical trigonometry has been used for locating solar,
lunar, and stellar positions.

What is Trigonometry?
Trigonometry is considered one of the most significant branches
of mathematics. The word trigonometry is formed by combining
the words 'Trigonon' and 'Metron' which means triangle and
measure respectively.
Trigonometry has a rich history that dates back to ancient
civilizations. The earliest known trigonometric concepts can be
found in the ancient Mesopotamian civilization, around 2000
BCE. They used basic trigonometry to solve problems related to
construction and land measurement. Trigonometry originated in
ancient Greece and India, with early contributions from
mathematicians like Hipparchus and Aryabhata. These ancient
scholars developed trigonometric concepts to solve problems
related to astronomy and geometry.
Trigonometry is the study of the relation between the sides
and angles of a right-angled triangle. It thus helps in finding the
measure of unknown dimensions of a right-angled triangle using
formulas and identities based on this relationship. There are
three basic functions in trigonometry - sine, cosine, and tangent.

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From applications of geometry to astronomical studies, apart
from mathematics, trigonometry has applications in the field of
physics. If a student is able to grasp the various concepts of
trigonometry in school, they are likely to score better in exams.

Real-Life Applications of Trigonometry

As we have already discovered, the applications of trigonometry
are seen in different fields in real life. Let us look at all these
fields briefly to understand the application of trigonometry
better.

Trigonometry in Astronomy
Astronomy is one of the most popular fields that use
trigonometry as one of the essential applications for the basic
functioning of the field. Trigonometric tables were created over
decades ago for computations in this field. It helps in
determining the distance between the stars and planets. The
tables help in locating the position of a sphere and this kind of
trigonometry is called spherical trigonometry. This type of
trigonometry is called linear algebra and is taught to children at
a young age.

Trigonometry in Navigation
Another use of trigonometry is seen in navigating directions
with the help of a compass that provides the straight direction to
a destination. Here, trigonometry functions come into play that
makes it simple to find the location and also find the distance.
The satellite navigation system also uses trigonometric functions

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such as the law of cosine to calculate simple equations to help in
locating the satellites in the earth's orbit 24 hours.

Trigonometry in Measuring Heights

Calculating the height of a mountain or a tall building can be
easily found by trigonometry. The height can be determined by
measuring the horizontal distance from the base and finding the
angle of elevation to the top. This formation will represent a
right-angle triangle with three sides, perpendicular, base, and
hypotenuse. These three aspects are the necessities of
calculating any trigonometric equations. Let us look at an
example to understand the measurement of height. A boy is
standing near a tree. He looks up at the tree and wonders “How
tall is the tree?” The height of the tree can be found without
actually measuring it. What we have here is a right-angled
triangle, i.e., a triangle with one of the angles equal to 90
degrees. Trigonometric formulas can be applied to calculate the
height of the tree, if the distance between the tree and boy, and
the angle formed when the tree is viewed from the ground is
given. It is determined using the tangent function, such as tan of
angle is equal to the ratio of the height of the tree and the
distance. Let us say the angle is θ, then
tan θ = Height/Distance between object & tree
Distance = Height/tan θ

Let us assume that distance is 30m and the angle formed is 45 degrees, then

Height = 30/tan 45°

Since, tan 45° = 1
So, Height = 30 m

The height of the tree can be found out by using basic trigonometry formulas.

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Trigonometry in Construction
Trigonometry is used in construction sites in measuring ground
surfaces and fields. When constructing a building, aspects like
roof inclination, rook slopes, perpendicular and parallel walls,
light angles, sun shading, etc, require trigonometry. It also helps
while installing ceramic tiles and stones while construction.

Manufacturing Industry
Trigonometry plays a major role in industry, where it allows
manufacturers to create everything from automobiles to zigzag
scissors. Engineers rely on trigonometric relationships to
determine the sizes and angles of mechanical parts used in
machinery, tools and equipment. This math plays a major role in
automotive engineering, allowing car companies to size each
part correctly and ensure they work safely together.
Trigonometry is also used by seamstresses where determining
the angle of darts or length of fabric needed to craft a certain
shape of skirt or shirt is accomplished using basic trigonometric
relationships.

Music Theory and Production

Trigonometry plays a major role in musical theory and
production. Sound waves travel in a repeating wave pattern,
which can be represented graphically by sine and cosine
functions. A single note can be modeled on a sine curve, and a
chord can be modeled with multiple sine curves used in
conjunction with one another. A graphical representation of
music allows computers to create and understand sounds. It also

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allows sound engineers to visualize sound waves so that they
can adjust volume, pitch and other elements to create the desired
sound effects. Trigonometry plays an important role in speaker
placement as well, since the angles of sound waves hitting the
ears can influence the sound quality.

Trigonometry in Video Games

Have you ever played the game, Mario? When you see him so
smoothly glide over the road blocks. He doesn’t really jump
straight along the Y axis; it is a slightly curved path or a
parabolic path that he takes to tackle the obstacles on his way.
Trigonometry helps Mario jump over these obstacles. As you
know Gaming industry is all about IT and computers and hence
Trigonometry is of equal importance for these engineers.

Trigonometry in Physics
In physics, trigonometry is used to find the components of
vectors, model the mechanics of waves (both physical and
electromagnetic) and oscillations, sum the strength of fields, and
use dot and cross products. Even in projectile motion you have a
lot of application of trigonometry.

Trigonometry in Archaeology
Trigonometry is used to divide up the excavation sites properly
into equal areas of work. Archaeologists identify different tools
used by the civilization, using trigonometry can help them in
these excavate. They can also use it to measure the distance
from underground water systems.

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Trigonometry in Marine Biology
Marine biologists often use trigonometry formula to establish
measurements. For example, to find out how light levels at
different depths affect the ability of algae to photosynthesize.
Trigonometry is used in finding the distance between celestial
bodies. Also, marine biologists utilize mathematical models to
measure and understand sea animals and their behavior. Marine
biologists may use trigonometry to determine the size of wild
animals from a distance.
In marine engineering, trigonometry is used to build and
navigate marine vessels. To be more specific trigonometry is
used to design the Marine ramp, which is a sloping surface to
connect lower and higher-level areas, it can be a slope or even a
staircase depending on its application.

Trigonometry in criminology
In criminology, trigonometry can help to calculate a projectile’s
trajectory, to estimate what might have caused a collision in a
car accident or how did an object fall down from somewhere, or
in which angle was a bullet shot etc.

Applications of Trigonometry in
Engineering and Architecture
1. Surveying and Mapping
One of the oldest and most common uses of trigonometry is
surveying and mapping. Surveyors use trigonometric formulas
and techniques to measure distances, heights, angles, and areas

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of land, buildings, and other objects. For example, by using the
law of sines or the law of cosines, surveyors can calculate the
length of a side of a triangle if they know the other two sides
and an angle, or two angles and a side. This allows them to
determine the dimensions of a plot of land, the height of a
mountain, or the distance between two points. Mapping also
relies on trigonometry, as it involves projecting the curved
surface of the earth onto a flat plane, using different types of
projections that preserve certain properties, such as distance,
direction, or area. Trigonometry helps mapmakers create
accurate and useful representations of the world.

2. Structural Design and Analysis

Another important application of trigonometry is structural
design and analysis. Engineers and architects use trigonometry
to design and analyze the strength, stability, and aesthetics of
structures, such as bridges, buildings, dams, towers, and domes.
For example, by using the Pythagorean theorem, they can
calculate the length of the diagonal of a rectangular beam or the
hypotenuse of a right triangle. By using trigonometric functions,
such as sine, cosine, and tangent, they can calculate the angles
and forces involved in various shapes and configurations, such
as trusses, arches, and polygons. Trigonometry also helps
engineers and architects create complex and elegant curves and
surfaces, such as parabolas, ellipses, and spirals.

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3. Mechanical Engineering
Trigonometry also plays a vital role in mechanical engineering,
which is the branch of engineering that deals with the design,
construction, and operation of machines and systems.
Mechanical engineers use trigonometry to analyze the motion,
speed, acceleration, and torque of rotating and oscillating parts,
such as gears, wheels, pistons, and springs. For example, by
using trigonometric identities and equations, they can calculate
the angular displacement, velocity, and acceleration of a rotating
object, or the amplitude, frequency, and phase of a periodic
motion. Trigonometry also helps mechanical engineers design
and optimize the performance, efficiency, and safety of
machines and systems, such as robots, engines, turbines, and
vehicles.

4. Electric Engineering
Trigonometry is also essential for electrical engineering, which
is the branch of engineering that deals with the generation,
transmission, and distribution of electricity and electrical
signals. Electrical engineers use trigonometry to understand and
manipulate the properties and behavior of alternating current
(AC), which is the type of current that changes direction and
magnitude periodically. For example, by using trigonometric
functions and graphs, they can represent and analyze the
waveform, amplitude, frequency, and phase of an AC signal, or
the power, voltage, and current of an AC circuit. Trigonometry
also helps electrical engineers design and control the

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components and devices that use or produce AC, such as
transformers, generators, motors, and oscilloscopes.

5. Civil Engineering
Trigonometry is also important for civil engineering, which is
the branch of engineering that deals with the planning,
construction, and maintenance of public works, such as roads,
railways, bridges, tunnels, airports, and water supply systems.
Civil engineers use trigonometry to calculate the slopes, grades,
curves, and angles of roads and railways, to ensure that they are
safe, smooth, and efficient for transportation. For example, by
using trigonometric ratios and functions, they can determine the
angle of elevation or depression of a road or railway, or the
radius and length of a curve or bend. Trigonometry also helps
civil engineers design and manage the drainage, irrigation, and
flood control systems that involve water flow and pressure.

6. Trigonometry in Flight Engineers

There has been significant growth in aviation or flight engineers
in terms of functionality because of trigonometry. It helps in
determining the speed, direction, and distance of an airplane
along with keeping in mind the speed and direction of the wind.
The wind plays an important role while landing and taking off to
calculate at what angle and what speed is the best for that
airplane.

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Other uses of trigonometry:
 It is used in oceanography in calculating the height of tides in
oceans.
 The sine and cosine functions are fundamental to the theory
of periodic functions, those that describe the sound and light
waves.
 Calculus is made up of Trigonometry and Algebra.
 Trigonometry can be used to roof a house, to make the roof
inclined (in the case of single individual bungalows) and the
height of the roof in buildings etc.
 It is used naval and aviation industries.
 It is used in cartography (creation of maps).
 Also trigonometry has its applications in satellite systems.

Conclusion
In conclusion, the applications of trigonometry are vast and
diverse, spanning various fields from astronomy to criminology
and beyond. Trigonometry, defined as the study of relationships
between the angles and sides of triangles, plays a crucial role in
many real-life scenarios.
In astronomy, trigonometry aids in determining distances
between celestial bodies and calculating their positions.
Navigation relies heavily on trigonometric principles, guiding
ships, planes, and even spacecraft to their destinations
accurately.
In practical applications, trigonometry helps in measuring
heights, essential in construction, surveying, and archaeology.
It's also fundamental in structural design, ensuring the stability
and safety of buildings and bridges.

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In the manufacturing industry, trigonometry assists in precision
machining and assembly. Similarly, in the field of music theory
and production, trigonometric functions are used to analyze
sound waves and create harmonious compositions.
In video game design, trigonometry underpins the creation of
realistic graphics and animations, enhancing user experience. In
physics, trigonometry aids in modeling various phenomena,
from projectile motion to wave behavior.
In marine biology, trigonometry helps in studying marine life
and ocean currents. Trigonometry is also applied in criminology
to analyze crime scenes and reconstruct events.
Moreover, trigonometry is indispensable in engineering and
architecture. Surveying and mapping rely on trigonometric
principles to accurately measure land and create maps.
Structural design and analysis use trigonometry to ensure the
stability and strength of buildings and infrastructure.
Mechanical and civil engineers apply trigonometry in designing
machinery and infrastructure, while electrical engineers use it to
calculate electrical quantities and design circuits.
In aviation, trigonometry is crucial for flight engineers to
navigate aircraft and control systems accurately. Beyond these
fields, trigonometry finds applications in a myriad of other
areas, including computer graphics, robotics, and medical
imaging.
Overall, the applications of trigonometry are foundational to our
modern world, facilitating advancements in technology, science,
and everyday life.

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Refrences:

» https://www.mathnasium.com/blog/real-life-applications-of-
trigonometry

» https://www.cuemath.com/trigonometry/applications-of-
trigonometry/

» https://www.embibe.com/exams/real-life-applications-of-
trigonometry/

» https://sciencing.com/use-trigonometry-architecture-
6631509.html

» https://www.linkedin.com/advice/0/what-some-real-world-
applications-trigonometry-engineering

» https://tag-hive.com/history-of-trigonometry/

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