Solve Trig Identity Problem: Eliminating θ from x=2+cscθ and y=1/4tanθ

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around eliminating the variable θ from the equations x=2+cscθ and y=1/4tanθ, which involves trigonometric identities and manipulations. Participants are exploring methods to express cscθ and tanθ in terms of x and y, respectively.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants suggest obtaining separate expressions for cscθ and tanθ from the given equations. There is discussion on how to manipulate these expressions to eliminate θ, with some confusion about the correct approach.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on deriving expressions for cscθ and tanθ, and there is an acknowledgment of the need to find a relevant trigonometric identity. The discussion is ongoing, with various interpretations and attempts being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the steps to take and the proper manipulation of trigonometric identities. There is a request for clarification on the initial steps, indicating that the problem may be challenging for those involved.

Briggs
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I have been set an exercise from my textbook to do for homework but I am having some problems on one of the questions, I havn't encountered any of this type before and I am quite stumped.

"Eliminate [tex]\theta[/tex] from equations [tex]x=2+\csc\theta[/tex] and [tex]y=\frac{1}{4}\tan\theta[/tex]"

So I am guessing I start off with x=y but then... :confused:
 
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start off by getting separate expressions for cscθ and tanθ from each of your two eqns.
Now you have to eliminate θ.
Can you do it from there ?
 
So for the first one would it goto,
[tex]2+\frac{1}{\sin\theta}=3+\cot\theta[/tex] Then try eliminate theta from there?
 
not quite.
get two separate expressions. One for cscθ and one for tanθ.
Then find a trig identity involving the trig functions. You will have to manipulate the functions to get the identity.
 
I'm not sure what you are saying, get an expression for each equation so for the first one would become [tex]2+\cot\theta[/tex] and the second one [tex]\frac{1}{4}\csc\theta-\frac{1}{4}[/tex] then put them equal to each other and try solve it?
I would appreciate it if you could show me the first step in tex form
 
Last edited:
hang on a minute.
 
x = 2 + cscθ
y = ¼tanθ

cscθ = x - 2
tanθ = 4y

1 + tan²θ = sec²θ
 
Ahhh, it all becomes clear. Thanks a lot for the help It seems so easy now.
 

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