Trignometric Identities Problem

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a trigonometric identities problem involving the equation 1 - tan(x) sin(x) = cos(x). Participants are exploring various approaches to simplify and manipulate the equation using trigonometric identities.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss rewriting tan(x) in terms of sine and cosine, and the importance of using the identity sin²(x) + cos²(x) = 1. There are suggestions to find a common denominator and simplify both sides of the equation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active with multiple participants offering insights and suggestions for simplification. Some participants are questioning their arithmetic and reasoning, while others are providing guidance on how to proceed with the problem.

Contextual Notes

There seems to be some confusion regarding the arithmetic steps and the application of trigonometric identities. Participants are also considering whether there are common values to factor out in the equation.

Markd
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A little confused on how to begin the problem


_1__ - tanx sinx = cosx
cosx

I know you change tanx to sinx/cosx but I can't seem to finish the problem, not sure if it is arithmatic errors or what?
 
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Just simplify both sides, by taking the most logical step... And remember [itex]cos^2 x +sin^2 x=1[/itex]
 
Write everything uder the same denominator.And the definition of tangent and the sine^{2}+cos^{2} connection.

Daniel.
 
You had the right idea starting with [tex]tanx = \frac{sinx}{cosx}[/tex]

Are you familiar with the trig identity: [tex]sin^2 x + cos^2 x = 1[/tex]. In many trig question, you have to multiply/divide out parts of your equation to work out the final solution. Take a look at the question and see if there are any common values that would be worth taking out.
 
Alright so

_1__ - tanx sinx = cosx
cosx
_1__ - sinx sinx = cosx
cosx cosx
_1__ - sinx
cosx cosx

Or is it

cosx-cosxsinx * sinx
` 1```` 1 ```````1
 
[tex]\frac{1}{cos\theta}-\frac{sin^2\theta}{cos\theta}=cos\theta[/tex]
Now find a common denominator and simplify it.
 
OMG,okay here goes
[tex]\frac{1}{\cos x}-\frac{\sin x}{\cos x} \sin x=...[/tex]

Can u take it from here?

Daniel.
 
ok, i guess ill provide a little more help:
[tex]\frac{1}{cos\theta}-tan\theta sin\theta=cos\theta[/tex]

simplify the tan:
[tex]\frac{1}{cos\theta}-\frac{sin\theta}{cos\theta}sin\theta=cos\theta[/tex]

multiply and subtract, because you have like denominators:
[tex]\frac{1-sin^2\theta}{cos\theta}=cos\theta[/tex]

now, use the fact that [itex]sin^2\theta + cos^2\theta = 1[/itex] to solve.
 

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