Who is credited with the formulation of cosine and cotangent?

Who is credited with the formulation of cosine and cotangent?

• A. Isaac Newton
• B. Edmund Gunter
• C. Leonhard Euler
• D. Ptolemy

Answer: (B)

Edmund Gunter is credited with the formulation of cosine and cotangent through his work in trigonometry during the early 17th century. He developed the concept of the "Gunter’s Scale," which was a significant advancement in the field of navigation and mathematics. This scale helped in the application of trigonometric functions, including cosine and cotangent, making it easier for navigators and surveyors to perform calculations related to angles and distances. Gunter's contributions laid the groundwork for the modern understanding of trigonometric functions, emphasizing their practical applications. His innovations were pivotal during a time when trigonometry was becoming increasingly important for navigation, astronomy, and engineering. This historical context illustrates why he is associated with the establishment of these trigonometric functions, distinguishing his contributions in comparison to those of other historical figures.

Edmund Gunter is credited with the formulation of cosine and cotangent through his work in trigonometry during the early 17th century. He developed the concept of the "Gunter’s Scale," which was a significant advancement in the field of navigation and mathematics. This scale helped in the application of trigonometric functions, including cosine and cotangent, making it easier for navigators and surveyors to perform calculations related to angles and distances.

Gunter's contributions laid the groundwork for the modern understanding of trigonometric functions, emphasizing their practical applications. His innovations were pivotal during a time when trigonometry was becoming increasingly important for navigation, astronomy, and engineering. This historical context illustrates why he is associated with the establishment of these trigonometric functions, distinguishing his contributions in comparison to those of other historical figures.