Can You Solve This Trigonometric Equation 2 Homework Problem?

In summary, to solve the equation tan^2x = 2tanx*sinx, we can factor out tanx from both sides and then use the fact that tanx can equal 0 in this case. The solutions are x = pi/3, 5pi/3, 0, and pi.
  • #1
TbbZz
37
0

Homework Statement


tan^2x = 2tanx*sinx


Homework Equations


N/A


The Attempt at a Solution



tan^2x = 2tanx*sinx

(tan^2x)/tanx = (2tanx*sinx)/tanx

tanx = 2sinx

sinx/cosx = 2sinx

cosx = 1/2

x = [tex]pi[/tex]/3

[tex]\alpha[/tex] = [tex]pi[/tex]/3 and 5[tex]pi[/tex]/3

Not sure what I'm doing wrong.

The answer is [tex]pi[/tex]/3 and 5[tex]pi[/tex]/3 and 0, and [tex]pi[/tex]

Thanks for the assistance, I greatly appreciate it.
 
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  • #2
Do not simply just divide by tanx
Bring 2tanx*sinx onto the other side and then factor out the tanx

Dividing by tanx implies that tanx is never equal to zero. Which it can be in this case.
 
  • #3
TbbZz said:

Homework Statement


tan^2x = 2tanx*sinx


Homework Equations


N/A


The Attempt at a Solution



tan^2x = 2tanx*sinx

(tan^2x)/tanx = (2tanx*sinx)/tanx
Either tan2(x)/tan x= 2 tan(x) sin(x)/tan(x) or tan(x)= 0.

tanx = 2sinx

sinx/cosx = 2sinx

cosx = 1/2

x = [tex]pi[/tex]/3

[tex]\alpha[/tex] = [tex]pi[/tex]/3 and 5[tex]pi[/tex]/3

Not sure what I'm doing wrong.

The answer is [tex]pi[/tex]/3 and 5[tex]pi[/tex]/3 and 0, and [tex]pi[/tex]

Thanks for the assistance, I greatly appreciate it.
 
  • #4
Thanks for the help, rock.freak667 and HallsofIvy.

I got it now.
 

1. What is a trigonometric equation?

A trigonometric equation is an equation that involves one or more trigonometric functions, such as sine, cosine, tangent, etc. The solutions to these equations are usually angles or ratios of sides in a right triangle.

2. How do you solve a trigonometric equation?

To solve a trigonometric equation, you can use algebraic techniques or trigonometric identities to simplify the equation and find the values of the variables that satisfy the equation. You can also use a calculator or trigonometric tables to find the solutions.

3. What are the common trigonometric identities?

The most common trigonometric identities include the Pythagorean identities, reciprocal identities, quotient identities, and even-odd identities. These identities can be used to simplify trigonometric equations and expressions.

4. Can a trigonometric equation have multiple solutions?

Yes, a trigonometric equation can have infinite solutions. This is because trigonometric functions are periodic, meaning they repeat their values after a certain interval. So, when solving a trigonometric equation, you may need to specify the range of solutions or use the general solution form.

5. How are trigonometric equations used in real-life applications?

Trigonometric equations are used in various fields, including physics, engineering, navigation, and astronomy. They can be used to model and solve problems involving waves, oscillations, and periodic motion. They are also essential in calculating distances, angles, and heights in real-life scenarios.

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