Cosine Function (cos)

Definition

The cosine function (cos) is a mathematical function that relates an angle within a right triangle to the ratio between the length of the adjacent side and hypotenuse. It is commonly used in physics to determine component vectors.

Analogy

Imagine you have a flashlight shining on an object from an angle. The cosine function can be thought of as measuring how much light from the flashlight reaches directly towards the object, rather than being wasted by shining away from it.

Related terms

Trigonometry: Trigonometry is a branch of mathematics that deals with relationships between angles and sides in triangles.

Right Triangle: A right triangle is a triangle with one 90-degree angle.

Adjacent Side: In trigonometry, the adjacent side refers to the side next to an angle under consideration.