In trigonometric terms, what does TOA signify for tangent?

The term "TOA" in trigonometry refers specifically to the relationship involved in the tangent function. To understand this, remember the definitions of the three primary trigonometric ratios based on a right triangle: sine, cosine, and tangent.

Tangent is defined as the ratio of the length of the side opposite the angle to the length of the side adjacent to the angle. Thus, when you see TOA, you should recognize that it stands for "Tangent = Opposite / Adjacent." This directly aligns with the correct answer.

Understanding this relationship is crucial in solving problems involving right triangles, especially when determining the lengths of sides or angles. The concept of opposite and adjacent sides is defined based on the specified angle in question, making the tangent function highly useful in various applications, such as physics, engineering, and architecture.