Question Analysis
The main focus is to determine which trigonometric function is appropriate when the opposite side and the hypotenuse of a right - triangle are given. This requires a clear understanding of the definitions of sine, cosine, and tangent in relation to the sides of a right - triangle.
Key Concept Explanation
Sine (sin): In a right - triangle, , where is an acute angle. So, it directly uses the opposite side and the hypotenuse.
Cosine (cos): , which requires the adjacent side and the hypotenuse, not the opposite side.
Tangent (tan): , and it does not involve the hypotenuse in this form.
Step - by - Step Solution
1. Analyze sine: Since the formula for sine is