How this calculation works
Find the angles where a scaled and vertically shifted cosine meets a selected level.
THE FORMULA
Solve cos θ=(target−shift)/amplitudeA worked example
2 cos θ+1=2 gives θ=60° and 300°.
Good to know
One period uses angles in [0°,360°).
Reference: OpenStax Algebra and Trigonometry (opens in a new tab) ↗
Read the result
Find the angles where a scaled and vertically shifted cosine meets a selected level.
The primary result is labeled “Solutions”. Keep the input definitions in view when comparing this result with another method.
Try a related calculation
One period uses angles in [0°,360°).
For a related exercise, try the quadratic equation solver.
A few questions, answered
How can I check the default inputs by hand?
2 cos θ+1=2 gives θ=60° and 300°.
Which rule does this calculator apply?
Solve cos θ=(target−shift)/amplitude