Another Trig. Identity Question Any takers?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a trigonometric identity problem involving the expression 1/(csc x)(sec^2 x) and its simplification. Participants are exploring various forms of the expression and potential equivalent identities.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants suggest rewriting the expression in terms of sine and cosine, with some attempting to manipulate the equation to find equivalent forms. There are questions about the correctness of initial steps and whether alternative methods might be necessary.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on rewriting the expression and have noted connections to the Pythagorean identity. Multiple interpretations of the problem are being explored, with some participants arriving at the same conclusion regarding the answer.

Contextual Notes

There is an indication that the original poster is struggling to match their work with the provided answer choices, suggesting potential confusion or missing information in their approach.

math_fortress
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1.) 1/(csc x)(sec^2 x) = ?

a.) 1/(sin x)(cos^2 x)
b.) sin x - sin^3 x
c.) 1/(sin x)(1+tan^2 x)
d.) sin x - (1/1+tan^2 x)
e.) 1+tan^3 x



Here's my work: 1/(csc x)(tan^2 x + 1)
(1/sin x) * ((cos x/sin x)(cos x/sin x) + 1)

So, am I on the right track here? Or do I need to do completely different stuff? I can't seem to find any of those 5 answers no matter what I do...
 
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For (1), rewrite the equation in terms of sine and cosine:

[tex]\frac{1}{\csc{x}\sec^2{x}}&=\sin{x}\cos^2{x}[/tex]

And take it from there (hint: use the basic Pythagorean identity).
However, I'm assuming you meant that original equation is
[tex]\displaystyle{\frac{1}{\csc{x}\sec^2{x}}}[/tex].
 
Last edited:
1/(cscx)(sec^2x)
1/(1/sinxcos^2x)

mult. top and bottom by sinxcos^2x

sinxcos^2x

Remember that cos^2x=1-sin^2x
sinx(1-sin^2x)
sinx-sin^3x

so the answer is (b)
 
nolachrymose said:
For (1), rewrite the equation in terms of sine and cosine:

[tex]\frac{1}{\csc{x}\sec^2{x}}&=\sin{x}\cos^2{x}[/tex]

and then u could say that

Sinx X ( 1 - Sin^2 x) ( because Cos^2 x = 1-Sin^2 x )

therefore, Sinx - Sin^3x ( Answer : B )
 
Right, that's what I was trying to lead math_fortress to. ;)
 
nolachrymose said:
Right, that's what I was trying to lead math_fortress to. ;)

ahh my bad.. I am sorry...
 
No problem. :)
 

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