

What is Inverse Trigonometry Functions?
Inverse Trigonometric Functions are identified as the inverse functions of some basic Trigonometric functions such as sine, cosine, tangent, secant, cosecant, and cotangent functions. Inverse Trigonometric Functions are also known as anti Trigonometric functions, arcus functions, and cyclometric functions. These Inverse Trigonometric Functions formulas enable us to find out any angles with any of the Trigonometry ratios. These formulas are derived from the properties of Trigonometric functions.Through this article, we learn about Inverse Trigonometry concepts, properties of Inverse Trigonometric Functions, Inverse Trigonometric Functions problems etc.
The Inverse Trigonometric Functions' range and domain are transformed from the domain and range of Trigonometric functions. We study the relationships between angles and sides in a right-angled triangle in Trigonometry. Inverse Trigonometry functions exist as well. Sin, cos, tan, cosec, sec, and cot are the basic Trigonometric functions. Inverse Trigonometric Functions are symbolized by sin-1x, cos-1x, cot-1x, tan-1x, cosec-1x, and sec-1x, respectively.
Inverse Trigonometry Formulas
The following formulas have been combined together to provide a list of Inverse Trigonometric formulas. These formulas can be used to convert one function to another, calculate the functions' principal angle values, and execute a variety of arithmetic operations across these Inverse Trigonometric Functions. In addition, all of the basic Trigonometric function formulas have been converted to Inverse Trigonometric Function formulas and are organized into the four groups below.
Arbitrary Values
Reciprocal and Complementary functions
Sum and difference of functions
Double and triple of a function
Inverse Trigonometric Functions also termed as “Arc functions” or anti Trigonometric functions are the inverse functions of some basic Trigonometric functions. They are used to find out the unknown values of angles of a right- angle triangle with any of the Trigonometry ratios. We know that Trigonometric functions are usually applied to the right angle triangle. They are widely used in the field of engineering, physics, geometry and navigation. The six Trigonometric functions are used to find out the angle measurement of a right angle triangle when the measurements of two sides of the triangle are known.
There are six Trigonometric functions for each of the Trigonometry ratios. The inverse of those six Trigonometric functions are:
Arcsine
Arccosine
Arctangent
Arcsecant
Arcosecant
Arccontangent
Properties of Inverse Trigonometry
Inverse Trigonometric Functions have qualities that are determined by the domain and range of the functions. There are a few aspects of Inverse Trigonometric Functions that are essential not only for solving issues but also for gaining a better knowledge of this topic. The range of values that an inverse function can achieve with the defined domain of the function is defined as the range of values that the inverse function can achieve. A function's domain is defined as the collection of all conceivable independent variables in which the function can exist. Inverse Trigonometric Functions have a fixed range of values.
Property 1:
Sin−1(x) = cosec−1(\[\frac{1}{x}\]), x ∈ [−1,1]−{0}
Cos−1(x) = sec−1(\[\frac{1}{x}\]), x ∈ [−1,1]−{0}
Tan−1(x) = cot−1(\[\frac{1}{x}\]), if x > 0 (or) cot−1(\[\frac{1}{x}\]) −π, if x < 0
Cot−1(x) = tan−1(\[\frac{1}{x}\]), if x > 0 (or) tan−1(\[\frac{1}{x}\]) + π, if x < 0
Property 2:
Sin−1(−x) = −Sin−1(x)
Tan−1(−x) = −Tan−1(x)
Cos−1(−x) = π − Cos−1(x)
Cosec−1(−x) = − Cosec−1(x)
Sec−1(−x) = π − Sec−1(x)
Cot−1(−x) = π − Cot−1(x)
Property 3:
Sin−1(\[\frac{1}{x}\]) = cosec−1x, x≥1 or x≤−1
Cos−1(\[\frac{1}{x}\]) = sec−1x, x≥1 or x≤−1
Tan−1(\[\frac{1}{x}\]) = −π + cot−1(x)
Property 4:
Sin−1(cos θ) = π/2 − θ, if θ ∈ [0,π]
Cos−1(sin θ) = π/2 − θ, if θ ∈ [−π/2, π/2]
Tan−1(cot θ) = π/2 − θ, θ ∈ [0,π]
Cot−1(tan θ) = π/2 − θ, θ ∈ [−π/2, π/2]
Sec−1(cosec θ) = π/2 − θ, θ ∈ [−π/2, 0] ∪ [0, π/2]
Cosec−1(sec θ) = π/2 − θ, θ ∈ [0,π]−{π/2}
Sin−1(x) = cos−1 \[\sqrt{(1− x^2)}\], 0 ≤ x ≤ 1
Property 5:
Sin−1x + Cos−1x = π/2
Tan−1x + Cot−1(x) = π/2
Sec−1x + Cosec−1x = π/2
Solved Examples
1. Prove the equation below: “Sin-1 (-x) = - Sin-1 (x), x ϵ (-1, 1)”
Solution: Let Sin-1 (-x) = y
Then -x = sin y
x = - sin y
x =sin (-y)
sin-1 -x = arcsin ( sin(-y))
sin-1 -x = y
Hence, Sin-1 (-x) = - Sin-1 (x), x ϵ (-1, 1)
2. Prove that Cos-1 (4x3 - 3 x) = 3 Cos-1 x , ½ ≤ x ≤ 1.
Solution: Let x = Cos ϴ
Where ϴ = Cos-1 (-x)
LHS = Cos-1 (-x) (4x3 -3x)
By substituting the value of x, we get
= Cos-1 (-x) (4 Cos3ϴ - 3 Cosϴ)
Accordingly, we get,
Cos-1 (Cos 3ϴ) = 3ϴ
By substituting the value of ϴ, we get
= 3 Cos-1 x
= RHS
Hence proved
Quiz Time
What is the principal value of the expression Cos-1Cos(−680°) ?
a. 2 π/9
b. -2 π/9
c. π/9
d. 34 π/9
Tan-1 (sin- π/2) is equal to
a. -1
b. 1
c. π/2
d. – π/4
Uses of Inverse Trigonometry
They are the inverses of the sine, cosine, tangent, cotangent, secant, and cosecant functions, and they are used to calculate an angle from any of its Trigonometric ratios. Engineering, navigation, physics, and geometry all require Inverse Trigonometric Functions.
If you're a carpenter, for example, and you want to make sure the end of a piece of wood molding is cut at a 45-degree angle, you can utilize Inverse Trigonometric Functions. You may determine the angle of the cut by measuring the side lengths at the end of the molding and using an Inverse Trigonometric Function. As a result, inverse trig functions can be employed for various carpentry-related operations such as construction.
Application of Inverse Trigonometry
In the fields of engineering, construction, and architecture, Inverse Trigonometric ratios are frequently used. Inverse Trigonometric ratios are the simplest approach to obtain an unknown angle, therefore we utilize them in locations where we need to know the angle for our assistance and rapidly acquire the desired result. The following are a few examples of Inverse Trigonometric ratios in use:
A right-angled triangle's unknown angles are measured using this formula.
Used to determine the depth of a hole or the angle of inclination.
It is used by architects to determine the angle of a bridge and its supports.
Carpenters use this tool to achieve a specific cut angle.
Facts
Hipparchus is the father of Trigonometry who compiled the first Trigonometry table
Inverse Trigonometric Functions were introduced early in 1700x by Daniel Bernouli used A, sin for the inverse sine of a number
Euler wrote “A t” for the inverse tangent in 1736.
FAQs on Important Properties of Inverse Trigonometric Functions
1. What are the most important properties of inverse trigonometric functions that students should know for CBSE Class 12 board exams (2025–26)?
The important properties of inverse trigonometric functions include principal values, domains, ranges, and key transformation formulas. For Class 12 board exams, focus on:
- The property sin−1(−x) = −sin−1(x) for x in (−1, 1).
- cos−1(−x) = π − cos−1(x) for x in [−1, 1].
- tan−1(−x) = −tan−1(x), valid for all real x.
- Sum and difference formulas, e.g., sin−1x + cos−1x = π/2.
- Reciprocal relationships, such as sin−1x = cosec−1(1/x) for x ≠ 0.
2. Which types of questions on inverse trigonometric functions are frequently asked in CBSE board exams?
CBSE Class 12 exams commonly include proof-based questions, simplifications using properties, and finding principal values of expressions involving inverse trigonometric functions. Expect questions like:
- Proving standard identities such as sin−1(−x) = −sin−1(x)
- Simplifying expressions, e.g., cos−1(4x3 − 3x) = 3 cos−1x
- Evaluating principal values of nested trigonometric expressions
3. How can students avoid common errors while attempting important questions based on inverse trigonometric properties?
To avoid mistakes with inverse trigonometric properties:
- Always check the domain and range of each function before simplifying.
- Use the correct principal value branch as per CBSE guidelines.
- Apply properties only when all conditions are satisfied (e.g., x must belong to given intervals).
- Write clear, stepwise justifications for proofs or simplification questions.
4. Why is it important to learn the principal value branches of inverse trigonometric functions for board exams?
The principal value branch defines the unique value an inverse trigonometric function returns within a specified interval. In CBSE board exams, using the correct principal value:
- Ensures your answers match standard solutions accepted for marking
- Prevents ambiguity, as multiple angle solutions exist in general
- Is essential for scoring full marks in both MCQ and descriptive questions
5. How do board examiners allocate marks for 3-mark and 5-mark questions on inverse trigonometric functions?
For Class 12 CBSE Maths, 3-mark questions on inverse trigonometric properties typically require short proofs or direct computations, while 5-mark questions expect detailed stepwise proofs, multiple property applications, or solving equations involving principal values. Marking schemes award points for clarity, correct application of properties, and neat solution layout. Partial credit is usually given for correct intermediate steps.
6. What is the significance of the property sin−1(−x) = −sin−1(x) in high-weightage exam questions?
This property highlights the odd function symmetry of sin−1x and helps simplify expressions, especially in questions asking to prove or solve identities. Exam questions may directly test this property or expect its use in more complex simplifications. Understanding it speeds up solving and reduces calculation errors in competitive/high-weightage scenarios.
7. How do inverse trigonometric properties help in solving real-life application-based board questions?
Inverse trigonometric properties are used in geometry, physics, engineering, and navigation problems where unknown angles need to be found from given ratios. In CBSE exams, application-based questions might ask students to find an angle of elevation, calculate an unknown in a right-angled triangle, or deduce an angle given trigonometric ratios. Knowledge of these properties enables quick, accurate solutions to such scenarios.
8. In exam HOTS questions, how can two different inverse trigonometric expressions be shown to be equal?
To show equality, apply relevant properties like complementary, reciprocal, or sum/difference relationships. For example, prove sin−1(x) + cos−1(x) = π/2 by using domain definitions and property statements, justifying each transformation step. Explaining why each property applies to the chosen x-values is critical to scoring high in HOTS questions.
9. What are the latest trends in CBSE important questions on inverse trigonometric functions for the 2025–26 session?
Latest trends include more application-based, multi-step proofs, direct use of properties in MCQs, and HOTS questions requiring conceptual understanding over memorization. The 2025–26 pattern emphasizes conceptual clarity, as seen in recent sample papers and board question sets.
10. How should students approach board questions involving mixed trigonometric and inverse trigonometric expressions?
Start by identifying inner and outer functions, apply standard trigonometric identities first, and then move to inverse properties based on principal values. Structure your solution stepwise, justify each transformation, and ensure all function domains are respected for score maximization.





