Problem 70 - Precalculus Essentials

Question

Use a calculator to find the value of the trigonometric function to four decimal places. $$\cot \frac{\pi}{18}$$

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The value of \(\cot \frac{\pi}{18}\) to four decimal places is the reciprocal of the value of \(\tan \frac{\pi}{18}\) computed to four decimal places.

Step 1: The Function to Compute

The problem asks for the value of \(\cot \frac{\pi}{18}\), which is the reciprocal of the tangent of \(\frac{\pi}{18}\). So, first, gather the tools needed to compute \(\tan \frac{\pi}{18}\) to four decimal places using a calculator.

Step 2: Compute the Tangent

Now, use the calculator to find the value of \(\tan \frac{\pi}{18}\). Make sure the calculator is set to radians rather than degrees.

Step 3: Find the Reciprocal

Having computed the tangent, find the reciprocal of this value to compute the cotangent. Again, use the calculator to do this calculation to four decimal places.