Finding Critical Numbers for a Trigonometric Function

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding critical numbers for the trigonometric function f(x) = (2sin(2x))/x over the interval [-π, π]. Participants are exploring the first derivative and its implications for identifying critical points.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss setting the first derivative equal to zero and consider the equation 0 = 2xcos(2x) - sin(2x). There is uncertainty about how to solve for critical numbers, particularly with the equation tan(2x) = 2x. Some participants express confusion over the graphical solutions and the need for numerical methods.

Discussion Status

There is ongoing exploration of the problem, with some participants suggesting numerical methods and graphing as potential approaches. The discussion reflects a lack of consensus on how to proceed, particularly regarding the analytical solvability of tan(2x) = 2x and the implications of periodicity.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the problem may require the use of decimals and numerical methods, as indicated by the teacher. There is mention of constraints related to the accuracy of graphing tools and the limitations of analytical solutions within the specified interval.

cdhotfire
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Well, I got this equation [itex]f(x)=\frac{2\sin{2x}}{x}[/itex] [itex][-\pi,\pi][/itex]
So I took the 1st derivative, [itex]f'(x)=\frac{2(2x\cos{2x} - \sin{2x})}{x^2}[/itex]
Then I set that equal to 0, and got [itex]0=2x\cos{2x} - \sin{2x}[/itex]
But I do not see how to get the critical numbers, I also tried to do double angle, but that just resulted in more pain.:mad:
Any help, would be appreciated.:smile:

edit: Can an mod please remove this post, seems I posted in the wrong section. :(
 
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Either x = 0 or [itex]\tan 2x = 2x[/itex]. You won't solve the latter analytically.
 
Tide said:
Either x = 0 or [itex]\tan 2x = 2x[/itex]. You won't solve the latter analytically.

Thats what I got, but I couldn't figure out how to solve the tan 2x = 2x. How would I be able to solve it?

I tried to graph it, but the points that came out, did not work in the equation.

So, do I go with x=0 only?

edit: my teacher said, I was going to use decimals on this problem.

edit: meh, the graph shows more crit points, it seems i need to solve the 2x=tan2x
 
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As Tide said, tan(2x) = 2x isn't solvable analytically which is probably why your teacher told you to use decimals. Of course, due to the periodicy of the tangent there will be an infinite number of solutions but you only have to consider the ones in the interval given.
 
TD said:
As Tide said, tan(2x) = 2x isn't solvable analytically which is probably why your teacher told you to use decimals. Of course, due to the periodicy of the tangent there will be an infinite number of solutions but you only have to consider the ones in the interval given.

um, so start with .00000000000001, and work up from there?
 
Graphing will work but you're limited severely in the accuracy unless you have a good graphing program that will zoom in as deeply as you need to pick off the numbers.

A good Newton-Raphson algorithm will give you the numbers you need.

Or, you could take a shortcut and get a copy of a freebie program called "deadline" which will graph your functions AND give the numerical solutions to a high degree of accuracy! :)
 
Tide said:
Graphing will work but you're limited severely in the accuracy unless you have a good graphing program that will zoom in as deeply as you need to pick off the numbers.
A good Newton-Raphson algorithm will give you the numbers you need.
Or, you could take a shortcut and get a copy of a freebie program called "deadline" which will graph your functions AND give the numerical solutions to a high degree of accuracy! :)

hmmm, I've heard of the Newton-raphson algorithm, but we never learned it in class. ill check out that prog.:smile:

thank you.
 
Your function is

[tex]f(x)\rightarrow f(u)=4 \ \mbox{sinc} \ u[/tex]

with [itex]u\in [-2\pi,2\pi][/itex].

Daniel.
 

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