Simplifying the Trigonometric Expression Question

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around simplifying the trigonometric expression cosx/(secx+tanx). The initial attempt leads to an incorrect denominator, which is corrected to sinx + 1. A hint is provided regarding a relevant identity involving sinx and cosx. The user successfully simplifies the expression to 1 - sinx after applying the identity. The final result is confirmed as correct.
Deaddman
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Homework Statement



cosx/(secx+tanx)

The Attempt at a Solution



So far I have this:

=cosx/(1/cosx + sinx/cosx)
=cosx/(sinx + 1/cosx)
=cos2x/sinx + 1

From there I don't know what to do. I've messed around with it for a while but don't seem to get anywhere.

Any help is appreciated.
 
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Your last denominator is incorrect. It should be sinx + 1.
 
Yeah you're right, thanks for pointing it out. Fixed now.
 
cos2 x/(1 + sin x)
(Let's keep the order of 1 and sin x.)

Here's a hint: do you know of an identity that has a sin x (or a multiple or a power thereof) and a cos x (as before) in it?


01
 
Ahhh, I think I got it.

1-sin2 x/1+sin x

(1-sin x)(1+sin x)/1+sin x

1-sin x!

Right?
 
Indeed that is correct!01
 
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