Sine Function (sin)

Definition

The sine function (sin) is another mathematical function that relates an angle within a right triangle to the ratio between the length of opposite side and hypotenuse. It is commonly used in physics for analyzing periodic motion.

Analogy

Imagine a playground swing moving back and forth. The sine function can be likened to measuring the height of the swing at different points in time, as it oscillates between its highest and lowest positions.

Related terms

Periodic Motion: Periodic motion refers to any motion that repeats itself after a certain interval of time.

Opposite Side: In trigonometry, the opposite side refers to the side opposite to an angle under consideration.

Amplitude: Amplitude is the maximum displacement or distance from equilibrium in periodic motion.