GCSE · Trigonometry (sine & cosine rules)

The cosine ruleExam-style questions

Why a² = b² + c² − 2bc cos A is Pythagoras with a correction term, when to choose it over the sine rule, and the rearrangement that finds an angle from three sides.

19 questions · GCSE (Higher) level · mark scheme and worked solution on each · no sign-up to try

DifficultyAllLevel 3Level 4Level 5
  1. 1
    In triangle ABCABC, b=9b = 9 cm, c=13c = 13 cm and angle A=67°A = 67°.13 cma9 cm67°ABCDiagram NOT accurately drawn

    Work out the length of aa. Give your answer correct to 1 decimal place.
    Level 3 · 3 marksTry it
  2. 2
    In triangle ABCABC, b=8.2b = 8.2 cm, c=6.5c = 6.5 cm and angle A=54°A = 54°.

    Work out the length of aa. Give your answer correct to 3 significant figures.
    Level 3 · 3 marksTry it