WAEC Further Mathematics 2020 Question 3

Question 3

Trigonometry

If cos x = −0.7133, find the values of x between 0° and 360°.

  1. A.44.5°, 224.5°
  2. B.123.5°, 190.5°
  3. C.135.5°, 213.5°
  4. D.135.5°, 224.5°
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (135.5°, 224.5°)

Explanation

The reference angle is cos⁻¹ 0.7133 ≈ 44.5°. Cosine is negative in the 2nd and 3rd quadrants: 180° − 44.5° = 135.5° and 180° + 44.5° = 224.5°.