Learning Trigonometry by Problem Solving

In this book, trigonometry is presented mainly through the solution of specific problems. The problems are meant to help the reader consolidate their knowledge of the subject. In addition, they serve to motivate and provide context for the concepts, definitions, and results as they are presented. In this way, it enables a more active mastery of the subject, directly linking the results of the theory with their applications. Some historical notes are also embedded in selected chapters.

The problems in the book are selected from a variety of disciplines, such as physics, medicine, architecture, and so on. They include solving triangles, trigonometric equations, and their applications. Taken together, the problems cover the entirety of material contained in a standard trigonometry course which is studied in high school and college.

We have also added some interesting, in our opinion, entertainment problems. To solve them, no special knowledge is required. While they are not directly related to the subject of the book, they reflect its spirit and contribute to a more lighthearted reading of the material.

Dr Alexander Rozenblyum, currently, an Associate Professor of Mathematics at New York City College of Technology, CUNY, where he has taught a broad spectrum of courses from developmental to upper-level for the past 20 years. Graduated summa cum laude from Belarusian University, Minsk, Belarus, with a master's degree in mathematics. Worked as a researcher at the Institute of Land Reclamation and Water Management in Minsk, Belarus, creating mathematical models of water flow in drainage systems. Earned a PhD in mathematics from Belarusian University. Then moved to Grodno, Belarus, to take up a position as a professor of mathematics at Grodno University. Earned a doctorate degree in mathematics from St. Petersburg University, Russia. Research interests are in the theory of special functions of mathematical physics and the theory of representations of groups, and contemporary methods of teaching in mathematics. Alexander is the author of more than 50 scientific and methodological publications in mathematics, including a research monograph Multidimensional special functions in the theory of group representations (co-authored with his brother, Leonid). In his leisure time, Alexander likes to listen to classical music (he graduated from music school, class of violin) and play table tennis.

Dr Leonid Rozenblyum, graduated summa cum laude from Belarusian University, Belarus, USSR, earning a master's degree in mathematics. Worked as a Leading Software Specialist in the Computer Center of Minsk Tractor Works, Belarus, USSR. Earned a PhD degree at Belarusian University. Worked as a Visiting Professor at the Institute for Qualification Improvement, Minsk, Belarus, USSR, teaching subjects in computer science. Published more than 30 Scientific and Technical Publications in mathematics and computer science. The areas of scientific research include elaboration of algorithms, mathematical simulation, design and development of database management systems, theory of special functions of mathematical physics, representations of groups, and contemporary methods of teaching in mathematics. He published (together with his brother, Alexander) research monograph Multidimensional special functions in the theory of group representation. Has about 20 Certificates of Innovation in Information Technology. In the US, Leonid worked as a scientific and software engineer in such companies as IBM, Bio-Rad Laboratories, Oracle Corporation. Retired from the position of Principal Software Engineer, Oracle Corporation, Redwood City, CA. Leonid enjoys listening to classical music (he graduated from music school, class of violin) and likes to play table tennis.