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Reference Angle

Let θ  be a non-quadrantal angle in standard position.   Its reference angle is the acute angle α formed by the terminal side of θ and the horizontal axis.

           

Quadrant I :

  The given angle and the reference angle are the same angle.

                                α=θ

           

           

Quadrant II :

                               α=πθ (radians)

                               α=180°θ (degrees)

           

           

Quadrant III :

                               α=θπ (radians)

                                α=θ180° (degrees)

           

           

Quadrant IV :

                                  α=2πθ (radians)

                                  α=360°θ (degrees)