A point in rectangular coordinates is given. (-4, -3). Convert it to polar coordinates. How to do this? Much Appreciated!

Question

dumbcow · Answer

$$r^2 = x^2 + y^2$$
$$\tan \theta = \frac{y}{x}$$
Note that (-4,-3) is in 3rd quandrant so angle must be between 180 and 270

zenmo · Answer

I found that r=5 and tan beta sign= -3/-4 = 3/4. What do you do next with the tan beta sign?

dumbcow · Answer

you have to use inverse tangent on your calculator
$$\theta = \tan^{-1} \frac{3}{4}$$

zenmo · Answer

I gotten 36.86 on my calculator, but the solution says 3.78?

dumbcow · Answer

ok well remember what i said about the angle being in the right quadrant
tan is equal and positive in 1st and 3rd quandrants
add 180 to 36.86 ----> 216.86

looks like thay want answer in radians .... convert 216.86 to radians to get 3.78

zenmo · Answer

Ok, I got it now. Thanks!

dumbcow · Answer

yw :)