TI89 Failing to solve trig system of equation

In summary, the conversation is about using equations to solve a problem and a specific equation that the individual is having trouble with on their calculator. They provide the equations they are using and explain how they are trying to solve the problem. They also discuss the domain and range of the trigonometric functions involved and how they can be rewritten to better understand their inputs and outputs. Finally, they mention using the intersect feature on a graphing calculator to check where two functions are equal.
  • #1
bwkerbow
2
0
Please note:
I am in degrees
I am remembering to include the restriction (|0<x<90)
This is the only equation I've had trouble doing on my ti89

In order to solve a problem I am plugging in the following equations:

520cos(x) = 490cos(y)
490sin(y) + 520sin(x) = 678

Doing this by hand with some Pythagorean trig identities gets me the correct answers of x = 44.0188 degrees and y = 40.2583 degrees and yet for some reason my calculator is not returning these.

Here is exactly what I am plugging in:

solve(520*cos(x) = 490*cos(y) and 490*sin(y) + 520*sin(x) = 678,x)|0<x<90

but rather than getting a value for x and y I am getting (after about a 7 second wait, pretty long)
x = 57.2958 (0.017453 * arcsin(.942308 * (sin(y)-1.38367)) + 6.28319*(@n11 + .5)) and...(insert more similar stuff here)

anyway the point is it isn't returning the correct answers that I was got (and checked) by hand and I'm not sure why.

Thank you so much in advance for your help, I'm trying to take full advantage of this calculator I am trying to learn.
 
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  • #2
First I would rewrite your trigonometric functions to gain a better sense of their domain and range.
520cos(x) = 490cos(y) is equivalent to cos(y) = 52cos(x)/49. Since cos(y) is always between -1 and 1, it follows that we can only let 52cos(x)/49 be between -1 and 1, so we want cos(x) between -49/52 and 49/52. Geometrically speaking, this means we don't quite let cos(x) get to the bounds of its range (-1 and 1), so we don't quite let x get to 0 or 180. The domain is defined between supplementary ( equidistant from 90° ) angles, arccos(49/52) ≈ 19.6° and arccos(-49/52) ≈ 160.4°. We can obtain all positive intervals by shifting this interval up by whole number multiples of 360°. Since cos(-x) = cos(x), this means our domain is symmetric over the y-axis. To get the other half of the domain, consider all the negative versions of these intervals. Also cos(x) is always between -1 and 1, so we want 49cos(y)/52 to be between -1 and 1 as well, which it is, so the range is all real numbers. As for 490sin(y) + 520sin(x) = 678, you could rewrite it in the following way: sin(y) = (339 - 260sin(x))/245. Again, sin(y) is always between -1 and 1; however, (339 - 260sin(x))/245 is always between 79/245 and 599/245, so we need to let it be between 79/245 and 1. This means we only let sin(x) get as low as 47/130, but we let it get all the way to 1. The domain is defined between arccos(47/130) ≈ 21.2° and arccos(1) = 90°. We can obtain all intervals by shifting this interval by integer multiples of 360°. Also sin(x) is always between -1 and 1; however, (339 - 245sin(y))/260 is always between 47/130 and 146/65, so we need to let it be between 47/130 and 1. This means we only let sin(y) get as low as 79/245, but we let it get all the way to 1. The range is defined between arcsin(79/245) ≈ 18.81° and arcsin(1) = 90°. It is important to note that both of your functions take angles as input and return angles as output. Also, if you look at the graphs of the two functions, you will see that each of the pieces bounded by every domain interval looks the same. Solving algebraically, square both sides of the first to get 270400cos2(x) = 240100cos2(y). For the second, subtract 520sin(x) from both sides and then square both sides, yielding 240100sin2(y) = 270400sin2(x) - 705120sin(x) + 459684. Then combine both of the x-sides and both of the y-sides to make one big equation: 270400sin2(x) + 270400cos2(x) - 705120sin(x) + 459684 = 240100sin2(y) + 240100cos2(y). Factor out a 270400 from the sin2(x) and cos2(x) terms and 240100 from the sin2(y) and cos2(y) terms, and these simplify to 1. Then you have 270400 - 705120sin(x) + 459684 = 240100. Simplify to get sin(x) = 489984/705120, thus x = arcsin(5104/7345) ≈ 44.0° plus or minus any whole number multiple of 360°. If you graph both functions simultaneously and use the intersect feature, you will see that these functions do indeed coincide at ≈ 44.0° plus or minus any whole number multiple of 360°. That's how you should check where two functions are equal, provided you can express them explicitly ( y in terms of x ). For these, you should input y1=arccos(52cos(x)/49) and y2=arcsin((339-260sin(x))/245).
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Oh yes that makes perfect sense. I don't like it, but I understand. Thank you so much tycoon515
 

What is the TI89 calculator?

The TI89 calculator is a graphing calculator designed and manufactured by Texas Instruments. It is used by students and professionals for solving mathematical and scientific problems.

What does it mean when the TI89 fails to solve a trig system of equations?

This means that the calculator was unable to find a solution for the equations entered. It could be due to various reasons such as incorrect input, insufficient information, or the equations being unsolvable.

How can I troubleshoot when the TI89 fails to solve a trig system of equations?

First, check that the equations are entered correctly and all necessary information is included. If the equations seem correct, try using different solving methods or checking for any errors in the calculator's settings. If the issue persists, consult the calculator's manual or contact technical support.

Can I use the TI89 to solve any trig system of equations?

While the TI89 is a powerful calculator, it may not be able to solve every trig system of equations. Some equations may be too complex or require advanced solving methods that are not programmed into the calculator. It is always best to double-check the equations and use other resources for confirmation.

Is there a way to avoid the TI89 failing to solve a trig system of equations?

To increase the chances of the TI89 successfully solving a trig system of equations, make sure to enter all equations and variables correctly and include enough information. Also, try using different solving methods or breaking down the equations into smaller parts. If the calculator still fails to solve, it may be necessary to use other resources or consult with a math expert.

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