Cosine Calculator
Calculate cosine values for any angle in degrees, radians, or gradians. Our free online tool provides precise results instantly.
How to Use:
- Enter the angle value in the input field
- Select the unit of measurement (degrees, radians, or gradians)
- Choose the decimal precision for the result
- Click "Calculate Cosine"
- View the result and copy it if needed
Understanding the Cosine Function
What is Cosine?
In trigonometry, the cosine of an angle in a right triangle is the ratio of the length of the adjacent side to the length of the hypotenuse. It's one of the three primary trigonometric functions along with sine and tangent.
Cosine Graph
The cosine function produces a wave-like pattern (cosine wave) when graphed. It has a period of 2π radians (360°), an amplitude of 1, and ranges between -1 and 1. The graph starts at (0,1) for angle 0.
Common Cosine Values
- cos(0°) = 1
- cos(30°) = √3/2 ≈ 0.8660
- cos(45°) = √2/2 ≈ 0.7071
- cos(60°) = 0.5
- cos(90°) = 0
Applications of Cosine
Cosine is used in physics for calculating components of vectors, in engineering for analyzing periodic phenomena, in computer graphics for rotations, and in many other fields involving periodic functions or circular motion.
Angle Measurement Units
Degrees (°)
The most common unit for measuring angles, where a full circle is divided into 360 equal parts called degrees. This system dates back to ancient Babylonian astronomy and is widely used in everyday applications, navigation, and many areas of mathematics.
Radians (rad)
The standard unit of angular measure in mathematics. One radian is the angle subtended at the center of a circle by an arc equal in length to the radius of the circle. There are 2π radians in a full circle (approximately 6.283). Radians are preferred in higher mathematics because they simplify many formulas.
Gradians (grad)
Also called "gons," gradians divide a full circle into 400 equal parts. This unit is sometimes used in surveying and some engineering applications, particularly in Europe. One gradian equals 0.9 degrees or π/200 radians.
Why Use Our Cosine Calculator?
Calculate Cosine Values with Ease
Whether you're a student learning trigonometry, a professional needing quick calculations, or just curious about mathematics, our cosine calculator provides accurate results in seconds. Bookmark this page for your future trigonometric needs!