Which trigonometric function is described as csc(x)?

Prepare for the UGA Math Placement Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

The function csc(x), known as the cosecant function, is defined as the reciprocal of the sine function. Therefore, csc(x) can be expressed mathematically as:

csc(x) = 1/sin(x).

This relationship highlights that for any angle x, the cosecant of x represents the ratio of the hypotenuse to the opposite side in a right triangle, which is precisely what the reciprocal of sine reflects.

The other options do not accurately describe the cosecant function. For instance, the cotangent function, which is the reciprocal of the tangent function (and related to the ratio of adjacent to opposite sides), does not correlate to csc(x) in this manner. Similarly, the cosine function relates to the adjacent side, and the tangent function, which is the ratio of the opposite to adjacent sides, also does not define cosecant. Hence, the reciprocal of sine is solely what characterizes csc(x), affirming that the correct identification is indeed 1/sin(x).

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