Proving Trig Identity: 1-(cos(x)+sin(x))(cos(x)-sin(x))=2sin^2(x)

In summary, the conversation discusses the proof of the equation 1-(cos(x)+sin(x))(cos(x)-sin(x))=2sin^2(x) through foiling and using Pythagorean identities. The conversation also addresses potential errors in the foiling process.
  • #1
KevinMWHM
27
0
prove
1-(cos(x)+sin(x))(cos(x)-sin(x))=2sin^2(x)

foil out the center
I get
1-cos^2(x)-cos(x)sin(x)+cos(x)sin(x)+sin^2(x)

the -cos(x)sin(x)+cos(x)sin(x) cancels to 0 leaving

1-cos^2(x)-sin^2(x)

then I'm lost...

I know I can switch 1-cos^2(x) to sin^2(x) but that doesn't help because I get
sin^2(x)-sin^2(x)=0

where am i going wrong?
 
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  • #2
"1-cos^2(x)-cos(x)sin(x)+cos(x)sin(x)+sin^2(x)

the -cos(x)sin(x)+cos(x)sin(x) cancels to 0 leaving

1-cos^2(x)-sin^2(x)"

Are you sure? Looks to me like the +cos(x)sin(x) and the -cos(x)sin(x) cancel out to leave:
1-cos^2(x)+sin^2(x)
 
  • #3
I wrote my foil wrong
foiling leaves me
1-cos^2(x)-cos(x)sin(x)+cos(x)sin(x) - sin^2(x)
 
  • #4
Don't remove the parentheses until after you've foiled it out or you're going to lose a negative sign.

Foiling 1-[(cos(x)+sin(x))(cos(x)-sin(x))], we get
1-(cos^2(x)-cos(x)sin(x)+cos(x)sin(x)-sin^2(x)). Two of the terms cancel, yielding:
1-(cos^2(x)-sin^2(x))
=1-cos^2(x)+sin^2(x)

Now try using those Pythagorean identities.
 

What are trigonometric identities?

Trigonometric identities are mathematical equations that involve trigonometric functions and are always true, no matter what values are substituted for the variables.

Why are trigonometric identities important?

Trigonometric identities are important because they allow us to simplify and solve complex trigonometric expressions, making calculations and problem-solving easier.

What is the difference between a trigonometric identity and a trigonometric equation?

A trigonometric identity is always true, while a trigonometric equation may only be true for certain values of the variables.

How do I prove a trigonometric identity?

To prove a trigonometric identity, you can use algebraic manipulations and the properties of trigonometric functions to transform one side of the equation into the other side.

What are some common trigonometric identities?

Some common trigonometric identities include the Pythagorean identities, sum and difference identities, double angle identities, and half angle identities.

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