Multiplication with modulus of function

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The discussion centers on the mathematical relationship between |Cos(theta)| and Cos(theta). It clarifies that while |Cos(theta)| is always positive, Cos(theta) can be negative. Therefore, the expression |Cos(theta)| * Cos(theta) does not equal Cos^2(theta) in all cases. Instead, it equals Cos^2(theta) when Cos(theta) is non-negative and -Cos^2(theta) when Cos(theta) is negative. Understanding this distinction is crucial for accurate calculations involving modulus functions.
Silva_physics
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Hi!
Could anybody, please, tell me:
whether |Cos(theta)|*Cos(theta) = Cos^(theta) , because it means that only positive values of Cos(theta) are taken.
Am I right?:shy:
 
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= Cos^2(theta)
 
Silva_physics said:
Hi!
Could anybody, please, tell me:
whether |Cos(theta)|*Cos(theta) = Cos^(theta) , because it means that only positive values of Cos(theta) are taken.
Am I right?:shy:
That's not a well phrased question. |Cos(theta)| is necessarily positive but the "Cos(theta)" outside the "modulus" is not so resticted.

In general |a|*a is equal to a^2 if a is non-negative, but equal to -a^2 if a is negative.
 
Thanks:wink:
 
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