Why is the reference angle always on the x-axis?

Basically, any angle on the x-y plane has a reference angle, which is always between 0 and 90 degrees. The reference angle is always the smallest angle that you can make from the terminal side of an angle (ie where the angle ends) with the x-axis. A reference angle always uses the x-axis as its frame of reference.

What is a reference triangle in trigonometry?

that will assist in dealing with trigonometric situations. A reference triangle is formed by “dropping” a perpendicular from the terminal ray of a standard position angle to the x-axis. Reference triangles are used to find trigonometric values for their standard position angles.

Where does the reference angle go in a triangle?

the x-axis
Reference Angle: the acute angle between the terminal arm/terminal side and the x-axis. The reference angle is always positive.

Why do we use reference angles in trig?

Reference angles make it possible to evaluate trigonometric functions for angles outside the first quadrant. They can also be used to find (x,y) coordinates for those angles. We will use the reference angle of the angle of rotation combined with the quadrant in which the terminal side of the angle lies.

Why do reference angles work?

Is a reference angle always acute?

A reference angle for a given angle in standard position is the positive acute angle formed by the $x$-axis and the terminal side of the given angle. Reference angles, by definition, always have a measure between 0 and . Below is a chart that will help in the easy calculation of reference angles.

Is the reference angle always an acute angle?

A reference angle is formed by the terminal side and the x-axis and will therefore always be acute. When evaluating sine, cosine and tangent for the reference angle, determine if each value is positive or negative by identifying the quadrant the terminal side is in.