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Angles, triangles, circles, and basic trigonometry for ACT
Learn step-by-step with practice exercises built right in.
Types:
In a right triangle, one leg is 3 and the other leg is 4. What is the hypotenuse?
Solution:
Use Pythagorean theorem:
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Explore more ACT Prep topics
Complementary angles: Add to Supplementary angles: Add to
All triangles: angles sum to
For right triangles: (where is the hypotenuse)
45-45-90:
30-60-90:
Circumference:
Area:
Arc length:
| Angle | sin | cos | tan |
|---|---|---|---|
Answer:
ACT Tip: This is the 3-4-5 Pythagorean triple - memorize it!
A circle has a diameter of 10 cm. What is its area?
Solution:
Given diameter cm, so radius cm
Area formula:
Answer: cm² (or approximately 78.54 cm²)
ACT Tip: Leave answer in terms of unless told to approximate!
In a right triangle, if the angle is and the hypotenuse is 12, what is the length of the side opposite the angle?
Solution:
This is a 30-60-90 triangle with ratio
The hypotenuse is
The side opposite is the shortest side =
Answer:
Alternative using trig:
ACT Tip: Recognize special triangles to solve faster!