O-Level A-Math and SEC G3 Additional Mathematics K341
G1: Trigonometric functions, identities and equations
Work in the required angle unit, transform identities deliberately, and give every solution in the interval.
Download this chapter PDFDownload complete Additional Mathematics PDF
Core notes
Additional Mathematics extends trigonometry beyond acute angles. Unit-circle definitions support all six functions, transformed graphs expose amplitude and period, identities enable exact rearrangement, and equations must return every solution in the stated interval.
Six functions, principal values, and exact special angles
Sine and cosine extend to angles of any magnitude through the unit circle. Tangent is , while cosecant, secant, and cotangent are the corresponding reciprocals. Inverse-trigonometric notation returns a principal value, not every possible angle.
Memorise or derive the exact sine, cosine, and tangent values for , , and , equivalently , , and . Use signs and symmetry to extend them to other quadrants.
Amplitude, period, symmetry, and transformed graphs
For sine and cosine, the magnitude of the vertical multiplier gives the amplitude. A horizontal multiplier compresses the period, while a horizontal divisor stretches it. A vertical constant shifts the centre line. Tangent has no amplitude and has vertical asymptotes where it is undefined.
Use symmetry and periodicity to sketch the required interval, marking intercepts, extrema, centre lines, and asymptotes. The syllabus includes forms with either a horizontal multiplier or divisor, so read the argument before determining the period.
Identities, compound angles, double angles, and R-form
Reciprocal, quotient, Pythagorean, compound-angle, and double-angle identities let one expression be rewritten into another. In a proof, start from one side and transform it into the other. To combine , choose an R-form whose expanded coefficients match and , with .
Trigonometric equations in a stated interval
Rearrange to a known trigonometric value, find a reference or principal angle, then use the relevant quadrants and period to list all solutions in the stated interval. Verify endpoints and exclude values where the original expression is undefined. A general solution is outside this syllabus requirement.
Trigonometric models
Periodic motion, tides, and rotating systems may be modelled with sine or cosine. Interpret amplitude, centre line, period, and phase from the context, and use the stated angle unit consistently.
Formulae and methods
| Relationship | Use |
|---|---|
| Convert quotient functions. | |
| Convert reciprocal functions. | |
| Apply the three Pythagorean identities. | |
| Expand a sine compound angle. | |
| Expand a cosine compound angle. | |
| Expand a tangent compound angle. | |
| Apply sine and cosine double-angle identities. | |
| Apply the tangent double-angle identity. | |
| Find the amplitude when converting to R-form. |
Worked examples
Example 1: Solve for .
- Write .
- The reference angle is . Sine is positive in quadrants I and II.
- List the interval solutions and .
Answer: .
Example 2: Express as , where .
- Expand .
- Match coefficients: and .
- Hence and .
Answer: , where .
Chapter checkpoint
- Confirm degrees or radians before evaluating, graphing, differentiating, or integrating.
- Use a named identity or graph feature deliberately instead of transforming both sides without direction.
- Generate and check every solution in the requested interval, without adding a general solution when it is excluded.
Exam traps and retrieval check
Avoid these traps
- Mixing degrees and radians in one calculation.
- Treating an inverse-trigonometric principal value as the only interval solution.
- Dividing by a trigonometric expression and silently losing solutions where that expression is zero.
Check from memory
What is the period of in radians?
.
What is ?
.
What does equal in an R-form expression?
.
Official K341 coverage
This chapter maps to 10 official outcomes: G1.1, G1.2, G1.3, G1.4, G1.5, G1.6, G1.7, G1.8, G1.9, G1.10. Check the official 2027 K341 syllabus for exact assessable wording and paper details.

