Understanding Trig Function Questions in the Range of Pi to 2Pi

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding a trigonometric function problem, specifically focusing on the secant function and its implications within the range of π to 2π. Participants are attempting to determine the larger angle α given that sec A = 1.2048.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are discussing how to express secant in terms of cosine and the implications of the range for the angle α. There are questions about converting angles to radians and the reasoning behind the specified range for the angle.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some have provided insights into the relationship between secant and cosine, while others question the clarity of the problem's constraints regarding the range of angles.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted concern about the appropriateness of the specified range for the angle, as it limits the possible solutions compared to a broader range from 0 to 2π.

DethRose
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Im having some problems with some trig function question...im not really understanding what they are asking with these type of questions?

help please

determine the larger angle a in the range pie<a<2pie

sec A = 1.2048

answer a= (in radians)

the answer is 5.6915 rads
 
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ok so the question is that we want to determine the larger angle [tex]\alpha[/tex] in the range [tex]\pi < \alpha < 2\pi[/tex]

Now [tex]\sec x = \frac{1}{\cos x}[/tex] See if you can go from here.
 
First, start off by writing secant as a cosine function:

[tex]\frac{1}{\cos A}=1.2048[/tex]

Now, solve the function for A. Remember, [itex]\arccos A[/itex] is only defined from 0 to [itex]\pi[/itex] so you have to find a corresponding angle between [itex]\pi[/itex] and [itex]2\pi[/itex]

good luck.
 
yea but how do i put it in radians?
 
This question would make more sense if asked about the range from 0 to [itex]2\pi[/itex], since there would be two angles with sec = 1.2048. But there's only one in the range of [itex]\pi[/itex] to [itex]2\pi[/itex], so the question doesn't make that much sense.
 

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