Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
5
Math Primer:
Trigonometry 101
Many designers' eyes glaze over and they throw up their hands at the mere mention of
trigonometry. Typically one hears exasperated expressions such as, “I can't do math,”
or “trig is too hard,” or “it's all so abstract.” If you are one of those people, then we
have some good news for you. You won't have to get involved with a lot of math,
because ActionScript is going to take care of that for you. Once you get your feet wet,
you'll find that you keep using much of the same stuff over and over. And rather than
being abstract, drawing a rough sketch of what you need or want usually leads you to
the solution.
This chapter is broken down into the basic concepts that you will need, with some exam-
ples that demonstrate how to use those concepts. Following is what we will be covering:
• What is trigonometry?
• Coordinate systems
• Angles
• The Pythagorean theorem
• The distance between two points
• Trig functions
• Circular motion and elliptical motion
• Sine and cosine waves
• Inverse trig functions
What Is Trigonometry?
Well, what exactly is trigonometry anyway that it should instill such fear in the hearts
and minds of so many? Admittedly, it's a rather imposing word. Let's take a look at it
and break the word apart.
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