REAL LIFE APPLICATIONS OF TRIGONOMETRY

Trigonometry simply means calculations with triangles (that’s where the tri comes from). It is a study of relationships in mathematics involving lengths, heights and angles of different triangles. The field emerged during the 3rd century BC, from applications of geometry to astronomical studies. Trigonometry spreads its applications into various fields such as architects, surveyors, astronauts, physicists, engineers and even crime scene investigators.

Now before going to the details of its applications, let’s answer a question have you ever wondered what field of science first used trigonometry?

The immediate answer expected would be mathematics but it doesn’t stop there even physics uses a lot of concepts of trigonometry. Another answer According to Morris Kline, in his book named- Mathematical Thought from Ancient to Modern Times, proclaimed that ‘trigonometry was first developed in connection with astronomy, with applications to navigation and construction of calendars. This was around 2000 years ago. Geometry is much older, and trigonometry is built upon geometry’. However, the origins of trigonometry can be traced to the civilizations of ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia and India more than 4000 years ago.

Trigonometry can be used to measure the height of a building or mountains:

 If you know the distance from where you observe the building and the angle of elevation you can easily find the height of the building. Similarly, if you have the value of one side and the angle of depression from the top of the building you can find and another side in the triangle, all you need to know is one side and angle of the triangle.

Trigonometry in marine engineering:

In marine engineering trigonometry is used to build and navigate marine vessels. To be more specific trigonometry is used to design the Marine ramp, which is a sloping surface to connect lower and higher level areas, it can be a slope or even a staircase depending on its application.

Trigonometry used in navigation:

Trigonometry is used to set directions such as the north south east west, it tells you what direction to take with the compass to get on a straight direction. It is used in navigation in order to pinpoint a location. It is also used to find the distance of the shore from a point in the sea. It is also used to see the horizon.

Trigonometry in construction:

In construction we need trigonometry to calculate the following:

• Measuring fields, lots and areas;
• Making walls parallel and perpendicular;
• Installing ceramic tiles;
• Roof inclination;
• The height of the building, the width length etc. and the many other such things where it becomes necessary to use trigonometry.

Architects use trigonometry to calculate structural load, roof slopes, ground surfaces and many other aspects, including sun shading and light angles.