Trigonometry2 options compared

Law of Cosines Calculator

Calculates unknown sides and angles within a non-right triangle using the Law of Cosines formula. Users input specific measurements to determine missing values, offering two primary functions. The first function allows users to find the length of the third side when given two known sides and the included angle (SAS). Alternatively, it can calculate the internal angles of a triangle when all three...

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Side by side

Law of Cosines Calculator options compared

ToolBest forStrengthsLimitations
Omni Calculator
omnicalculator.com
Quick side or angle calculations
  • Community validated results
  • Simple input fields
  • Fewer unit options for angles
Pi Day Calculators
piday.org
Diverse angle unit needs
  • Wide range of angle units
  • Detailed side unit conversions
  • No community votes or ratings shown

Buyer's guide

How to choose a law of cosines calculator

When picking a law of cosines calculator, the key decision is whether you need broad unit support or a streamlined experience. If your work involves surveying, navigation, or any field where angles might be measured in gradians, minutes, or seconds, the Pi Day tool gives you those options without extra conversion steps. If you just want to plug in side lengths and an angle and get a result fast, the Omni Calculator version removes distractions and has been tested by other users.

Questions

Law of Cosines Calculator FAQ

Can I use the law of cosines for any triangle?
The law of cosines formula is c² = a² + b² - 2ab × cos(γ), where γ is the angle opposite side c. Rearranging this formula lets you solve for a missing side when two sides and the included angle are known, or for a missing angle when all three sides are known.
What if I only know one side and one angle?
If you have one side and one angle, you would need additional information, such as another side or angle, to use the law of cosines or law of sines effectively.
Do these calculators handle obtuse angles?
When you input an obtuse angle, the calculator uses the cosine value correctly, and the resulting side length or angle will reflect the triangle's actual shape.
Why would I choose one calculator over the other?
The Omni Calculator version is more streamlined for general use, while the Pi Day version provides more granular unit controls for specialized needs.
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