Calculate sinb if cosb=-1/2 and b is in the third quadrant . Solution First, we have to emphasize that if b is in the third quadrant, the value of sin b is negative. Due to the fact that the value of cosb is given, from enunciation, we\'ll calculate the value of sin b, with the help of fundamental formula of trigonometry: (sin b)^2 + (cos b)^2 = 1 But cos b = -1/2 (sin b)^2 + (-1/2)^2 = 1 We\'ll subtract (-1/2)^2 both sides: (sin b)^2 = 1 -1/4 sin b = -sqrt (3/9) sin b = -(sqrt 3)/3.