Question

The point (5,-3) lies on the terminal side of an angle θ in standard position. What is the value of cos θ? (Write your answer in simplified radical form)

A) cos θ = -√34/34
B) cos θ = √34/34
C) cos θ = -3/5
D) cos θ = 5/3

Answer 1

To find the value of cos θ given a point on the terminal side, we can use the Pythagorean theorem to find the length of the hypotenuse of a right triangle.

Step-by-step explanation:

The point (5,-3) lies on the terminal side of an angle θ in standard position. To find the value of cos θ, we need to determine the ratio of the adjacent side to the hypotenuse of a right triangle.

We can use the Pythagorean theorem to find the length of the hypotenuse: c = √(a2 + b2) = √(52 + (-3)2) = √(25 + 9) = √34.

Therefore, cos θ = adjacent/hypotenuse = 5/√34 = √34/34 (Option B).