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JEE Maths
Class 12 Chapter 2

Must-Revise Concepts

Derivative Inverse Trigonometric Functions

Inverse Trigonometric Functions

Inverse Trigonometric Functions

Inverse Trigonometric Functions, also known as arcus, anti-trigonometric, or cyclometric functions, are the inverse counterparts of the fundamental trigonometric functions: sine, cosine, tangent, cotangent, secant, and cosecant. They are instrumental in determining angles based on trigonometric ratios. Widely utilized in engineering, Physics, Geometry, and navigation, these functions play pivotal roles in various applications.

Inverse trigonometry functions are crucial in Mathematics, especially in Calculus and Trigonometry. They are the inverse operations of trigonometric functions and have diverse applications in solving equations, finding angles, and analyzing periodic phenomena. In this thorough exploration, we will delve deep into inverse trigonometric functions, exploring their formulas, derivatives, graphs, properties, and much more.

1.0What Are Inverse Trigonometric Functions?

Inverse trigonometric functions are functions that yield angles when given the ratios of sides in a right triangle. They are denoted by sin−1x, cos−1x, tan−1x, cot−1x, sec−1x, and cosec−1x. These functions have restricted domains and ranges to ensure their inverse nature.

Related Video:

Also Read Trigonometric Ratios and Identities

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  • 1.0What Are Inverse Trigonometric Functions?

Class 12 Maths Chapters List:- JEE & NEET Revision Notes

Chapter 1 Relations and Functions

Chapter 2 Inverse Trigonometric Functions

Chapter 3 Matrices

Chapter 4 Determinants

Chapter 5 Continuity and Differentiability

Chapter 6 Application of Derivatives

Chapter 7 Integrals

Chapter 8 Application of Integrals

Chapter 9 Differential Equations

Chapter 10 Vector Algebra

Chapter 11 Three Dimensional Geometry

Chapter 12 Linear Programming

Chapter 13 Probability

Frequently Asked Questions

Principal value branches ensure that every inverse trigonometric function is one-one and invertible. Without restricting the domain, inverse functions cannot be uniquely defined.

The most frequently used identities in which principal value defines for all functions.

Students often ignore principal value ranges, confuse inverse functions with reciprocal functions, apply identities without checking domain restrictions, and express answers outside the valid principal branch.

Inverse Trigonometric Functions are extensively used in Continuity and Differentiability, Applications of Derivatives, Indefinite Integration, and Differential Equations. A strong understanding of this chapter makes Calculus significantly easier.

Start by memorizing the domains, ranges, and principal value branches. Then revise all standard identities, practice simplification-based questions, solve graph-related problems, and finish with JEE Main & Advanced Previous Years' Questions (PYQs) to reinforce concepts.

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Class 12 Maths Chapter 2: Inverse Trigonometric Functions

Whenever we know the value of a trigonometric ratio and need to determine the corresponding angle, Inverse Trigonometric Functions come into play. From finding angles in surveying and navigation to solving engineering, physics, and calculus problems, these functions help establish the reverse relationship of trigonometric functions. This chapter introduces principal values, domains, ranges, properties, identities, and graphs of inverse trigonometric functions, making it an essential bridge between Trigonometry and Calculus. It is one of the most important chapters for JEE Main, JEE Advanced, and CBSE Board examinations.

At ALLEN, our expert faculty have designed these Class 12 Maths Chapter 2: Inverse Trigonometric Functions smart study resources to simplify revision with concise explanations and exam-oriented content. Class 12 Maths Chapter 2 revision notes include principal value concepts, important identities, shortcut techniques, solved illustrations, common mistakes, and PYQ-based insights. Whether you're preparing for CBSE Board exams or competitive exams like JEE Main and JEE Advanced, these revision notes will help you build strong conceptual clarity and improve problem-solving accuracy.

1.0Chapter Snapshot

Parameter

Details

Difficulty Level

Moderate to High

Revision Time

30–40 Minutes

Key Concepts Covered

Domains and Ranges, Algebraic Identities, Inverse Trigonometric Functions and Principal Value

Important topics/subtopics covered under chapter 2 are as follow:-

Topic

Overview

Inverse Trigonometric Functions

Definition and notation

Principal Value Branches

Domain and range restrictions

Domains and Ranges

Principal values of all inverse trigonometric functions

Basic Properties

Important identities and transformations

Graphs

Graphical representation of inverse functions

Algebraic Identities

Simplification using identities

Principal Value Problems

Evaluation of expressions

Applications

Foundation for Calculus and advanced Mathematics

2.0Chapter 2 Smart Study Material by ALLEN Experts: Download PDFs

Resource

Status

Chapter Mock Test Paper

Chapter Mock Test Paper Solution

On this page


  • 1.0Chapter Snapshot
  • 2.0Chapter 2 Smart Study Material by ALLEN Experts: Download PDFs

1.0Graphs of Inverse Trigonometric Functions

The graphs of inverse trigonometric functions exhibit unique characteristics due to their restricted domains and ranges. Here are the graphs of the six primary inverse trigonometric functions:

  1. Graph of Arcsine Function (sin−1x):

Graph of Arcsine Function

  1. Graph of Arccosine Function (cos−1x):

Graph of Arccosine Function

  1. Graph of Arctangent Function (tan−1x):

Graph of Arctangent Function

  1. Graph of Arc cotangent Function (cot−1x):

Graph of Arc cotangent Function

  1. Graph of Arcsecant Function (sec−1x):

Graph of Arcsecant Function

  1. Graph of Arccosecant Function (cosec−1x):

Graph of Arccosecant Function

2.0Domain and Range of Inverse Trigonometric Functions:

The domain and range of inverse trigonometric functions are determined by their definitions and properties. For example, the domain of sin–1x is [–1,1], and its range is [2−π​,2π​]. Understanding these domains and ranges is essential for solving equations and analyzing functions.

Here are the domain and range of the six primary inverse trigonometric functions:

Functions

Domain

Range (Principal value branches)

y = sin–1x

[–1,1]

[2−π​,2π​]

y = cos–1x

[–1,1]

[0, π]

y = tan–1x

R

(2−π​,2π​)

y = cot–1x

R

(0, π)

y = sec–1x

R– (–1,1)

[0,π]−{2π​}

y = cosec–1x

R – (–1,1)

[2−π​,2π​]−{0}

Domain of Inverse Trigonometric Functions

The domain of inverse trigonometric functions is limited to ensure their inverse nature. For example, the domain of sin−1x and cos−1x is [−1, 1], while the domain of tan−1x is R. Understanding these domains is crucial for determining where the functions are defined. Domains of the six primary inverse trigonometric functions are given above.

Range of Inverse Trigonometric Functions

The range of inverse trigonometric functions varies depending on the function. For example, the range of sin–1 x is [−2π​,2π​], while the range of cos–1 x is [0, π] These ranges reflect the restrictions imposed on the outputs of inverse trigonometric functions. Range of the six primary inverse trigonometric functions are given above.

3.0Inverse Trigonometric Functions Identities

Inverse trigonometric functions have several identities that relate them to their corresponding trigonometric functions. For example, sin(sin−1x) = x and sin−1 (sin x) = x in specific domains are identities that demonstrate the relationship between sine and arcsine. These identities are useful in simplifying expressions and solving equations.

Also Read Integration Trigonometric Functions

4.0Properties of Inverse Trigonometric Functions

Inverse trigonometric functions possess various properties that govern their behavior. These properties include symmetry, periodicity, and monotonicity. For instance, sin−1(−x) = −sin−1x reflects the odd symmetry of arcsine function. Understanding these properties enhances our comprehension of inverse trigonometric functions.

Property – 1

(i) sin−1x+cos−1x=2π​; |x| < 1

(ii) tan−1x+cot−1x=2π​  ; x ∈ R

(iii) cosec−1x+sec−1x=2π​; |x| ≥ 1

Property – 2

(i) sin–1(–x) = –sin –1x;               |x| ≤ 1

(ii) cosec–1(–x) = – cosec–1x |x| > 1

(iii) tan–1 (–x) = –tan–1x;                 x ∈ R

(iv) cot–1 (–x) = π – cot–1 x;             x∈ R 

(v) cos–1 (–x) = π – cos–1x;         |x| < 1

(vi) sec–1 (–x) = π – sec–1 x;   |x| > 1

Property – 3

(i) cosec−1x=sin−1x1​; |x| ≥1

(ii) sec−1x=cos−1x1​; |x| ≥ 1

(iii) cot−1x={tan−1x1​π+tan−1x1​​;;​x>0x<0​

Property – 4

(i) (a) tan−1x+tan−1y=⎩⎨⎧​tan−11−xyx+y​π+tan−11−xyx+y​2π​,​ where  where  where ​x>0,y>0&xy<1x>0,y>0&xy>1x>0,y>0&xy=1​

  (b) tan−1x−tan−1y=tan−11+xyx−y​wherex>0,y>0

(c) tan−1x+tan−1y+tan−1z=tan−1[1−xy−yz−zxx+y+z−xyz​]

if x > 0, y > 0, z > 0 and xy + yz + zx < 1

(ii) (a) sin−1x+sin−1y=

⎩⎨⎧​sin−1[x1−y2​+y1−x2​]π−sin−1[x1−y2​+y1−x2​]​ where x>0,y>0&(x2+y2)≤1 where x>0,y>0&x2+y2>1​

(b) sin−1−sin−1y=sin−1[x1−y2​−y1−x2​]wherex>0,y>0

(iii) (a) cos−1x+cos−1y=cos−1[xy−1−x2​1−y2​]wherex>0,y>0

(b) cos−1x−cos−1y=⎩⎨⎧​cos−1(xy+1−x2​1−y2​);−cos−1(xy+1−x2​1−y2​);​x<y,x,y>0x>y,x,y>0​

Also Read Trigonometric Equations

5.0Inverse Trigonometric Functions Solved Problems

Example 1: The value of sin−1(−3​/2) is -

(A) –π/3 (B) –2π/3 (C) 4π/3 (D) 5π/3

Ans. (A)

Solution: 

sin−1(−23​​)=−sin−1(23​​)=−3π​

Example 2: Domain of the function y=sin−1(log2​x)​

(A) [1, 2] (B) [–1, 2] (C) [–2, 2] (D) [–3, 3]

Ans. (A)

Solution: sin–1(log2 x) ≥ 0 and –1 ≤ log2 x ≤ 1 and  x > 0

0≤sin−1(log2​x)≤2π​

0 ≤ (log2 x) ≤ 1

1 ≤ x ≤ 2

D = [1, 2]

Example 3: Range of sin–1 x + cosec–1 x is -

(A) {–π, π} (B) (-π, π)

(C) {0,2π​} (D) none of these

Ans. (A)

Solution: Domain of sin–1 x is [–1, 1]

domain of cosec–1 x is (–∞, –1] ∪ [1, ∞)

The common domain is {–1, 1} only.

range = sin–1 (–1) + cosec–1 (–1) = –π

or sin–1 (1) + cosec–1 (1) =π

Hence, range = {–π, π}

Example 4: Find domain and range of y = sin–1 (x) + cos–1 (x) + tan–1 (x) 

Solution: Df : x ∈ [–1,1]  and x ∈ [–1,1]  and x ∈ R

⇒ x ∈ [–1,1]

∴ Df : [–1,1] 

f(x)=2π​+tan−1(x)

–1 ≤ x ≤ –1

⇒−4π​≤tan−1x≤4π​

⇒4π​≤2π​+tan−1x≤43π​

∴Rf​:[4π​,43π​]

Example 5: Prove that sec2(tan–1 2) + cosec2 (cot–1) 3) = 15

Solution: We have,

sec2(tan-12)   + cosec2 (cot–1 3)

={sec(tan−12)}2+{cosec(cot−13)}2

={sec(tan−112​)}2+{cosec(cot−113​)}2

={sec(sec−15​)}2+{ cosec( cosec−110​}2

={sec(sec−15​)}2+{cosec(cosec−110​}2

=(5​)2+(10​)2=15

Also Read Trigonometry Previous Year Questions with Solutions

6.0Sample Questions on Inverse Trigonometric Functions

Q. What are inverse trigonometric functions?

Ans: Inverse trigonometric functions are functions that provide angles given the ratios of sides in a right triangle. They are denoted by sin−1x, cos−1x, tan−1x, cot−1x, sec−1x, and cosec−1x.

Q. What are some common identities involving inverse trigonometric functions?

Ans: Common identities include sin(sin−1x) = x, cos(cos−1x) = x, and tan(tan−1x) = x. These identities express the relationships between trigonometric functions and their inverses.

1.0Learning Outcomes

After completing these revision notes, you will be able to:

  • Understand the concept of inverse trigonometric functions.
  • Identify the principal value branches of all inverse trigonometric functions.
  • Determine the domain and range of inverse trigonometric functions.
  • Apply standard identities to simplify expressions.
  • Solve problems involving principal values.
  • Interpret graphs of inverse trigonometric functions.
  • Apply inverse trigonometric concepts to JEE Main, JEE Advanced, and CBSE Board-level questions.
  • Build a strong foundation for Continuity, Differentiability, and Integration.

2.05-Minute Quick Revision

Must-Revise Concepts

  • Principal Value and Domain and Range of (sin−1x)(cos−1x)(tan−1x)(cot−1x)(sec−1x)(csc−1x)
  • Standard Identities
  • Graphs of Inverse Trigonometric Functions

Important Formula Recall

  • Principal Value Range of Sine Inverse: sin−1x∈[−2π​,2π​]
  • Principal Value Range of Cosine Inverse: cos−1x∈[0,π]
  • Principal Value Range of Tangent Inverse: tan−1x∈(−2π​,2π​)
  • Important Identities

sin−1x+cos−1x=2π​

tan−1x+cot−1x=2π​

sec−1x=cos−1(x1​)

csc−1x=sin−1(x1​)

Important Properties

  • Every inverse trigonometric function has a restricted domain to ensure one-one correspondence.
  • Principal values must always lie within the specified range.
  • Standard identities are frequently used for simplifying expressions.
  • Graphs of inverse trigonometric functions are reflections of their corresponding trigonometric functions about the line (y=x).
  • Inverse trigonometric functions are widely used in differentiation and integration.

3.0Formula Handbook

The following formulas and standard results are essential for solving questions from Inverse Trigonometric Functions in JEE Main, JEE Advanced, and CBSE examinations.

4.0Common Mistakes & JEE Tips

Inverse Trigonometric Functions is a highly conceptual chapter where students often lose marks by ignoring principal value ranges and domain restrictions. Strong conceptual clarity is more important than memorizing identities.

Common Mistake

Correct Approach

Ignoring principal value ranges

Always write the principal value interval before evaluating an expression.

Confusing inverse functions with reciprocals

Remember that (\sin^{-1}x) means inverse sine, not (\frac{1}{\sin x}).

Applying identities outside the valid domain

Verify the domain of the variable before using standard identities.

Incorrectly simplifying inverse trigonometric expressions

Reduce the expression step by step while keeping principal values in mind.

Forgetting domain restrictions of inverse functions

Check whether the given value lies within the permissible domain.

Using incorrect angle values

Express answers according to the principal branch only.

Mixing radians and degrees

Use radians unless the question explicitly specifies degrees.

Skipping graphical interpretation

Understand the graphs to visualize domains, ranges, and principal values.

5.0ALLEN Faculty Tips

  • Memorize the principal value ranges of all six inverse trigonometric functions.
  • Revise standard identities every day during exam preparation.
  • Draw graphs to understand domain and range restrictions visually.
  • Always check whether the given value satisfies the domain conditions.
  • Practice simplification-based questions regularly.
  • Focus on conceptual understanding rather than memorizing solutions.
  • Solve Previous Years' Questions (PYQs) to identify recurring question patterns.

6.0PYQ Trend Analysis

Inverse Trigonometric Functions is an important chapter in JEE Main, JEE Advanced, and CBSE Board examinations. Questions are frequently asked on principal values, identities, simplification of expressions, and applications in Calculus.

Note: The trend below is based on the analysis of previous years' JEE Main and JEE Advanced question papers. The exact number of questions may vary each year.

Topic

Questions Asked (Last 5 Years)

Average Difficulty

Principal Value Problems

1–2

Easy

Standard Identities

2–3

Moderate

Simplification of Expressions

2–3

Moderate

Domain & Range

1–2

Easy–Moderate

Graph-Based Questions

1

Moderate

Mixed Conceptual Problems

1–2

Moderate

7.0Most Common Question Types

  • Finding the principal value of inverse trigonometric functions.
  • Simplifying expressions using standard identities.
  • Determining the domain and range of inverse trigonometric functions.
  • Evaluating composite inverse trigonometric expressions.
  • Solving problems involving reciprocal inverse functions.
  • Identifying correct principal branches from multiple options.
  • Graph-based conceptual questions.
  • Application-based questions involving inverse trigonometric identities.

8.0Smart Revision Strategy

Follow this revision sequence to master the chapter efficiently:

  1. Revise the definitions and principal value branches of all inverse trigonometric functions.
  2. Memorize the domains, ranges, and standard identities.
  3. Practice evaluating principal values for different inputs.
  4. Solve simplification-based questions using identities.
  5. Revise graphs to strengthen conceptual understanding.
  6. Attempt mixed problems combining multiple inverse trigonometric functions.
  7. Practice Previous Years' Questions (PYQs).
  8. End with a timed revision test to improve speed and accuracy.

On this page


  • 1.0Learning Outcomes
  • 2.05-Minute Quick Revision
  • 2.1Must-Revise Concepts
  • 2.2Important Formula Recall
  • 2.3Important Properties
  • 3.0Formula Handbook
  • 4.0Common Mistakes & JEE Tips
  • 5.0ALLEN Faculty Tips
  • 6.0PYQ Trend Analysis
  • 7.0Most Common Question Types
  • 8.0Smart Revision Strategy