Proving This Trigonometric Identity

In summary, the conversation discussed proving the equation \frac{cscx +cotx}{cscx-cotx} = \frac{1+2cosx+cos^2x}{sin^2x} by manipulating the left side using trigonometric identities and multiplying by a factor to get the right side. It was also mentioned that sin^2x and cos^2x are related through the Pythagorean identity.
  • #1
Ace.
52
0
1. Prove:[tex]\frac{cscx +cotx}{cscx-cotx} = \frac{1+2cosx+cos^2x}{sin^2x}[/tex]

Homework Equations


tanx = [itex]\frac{sinx}{cosx}[/itex]
cotx = [itex]\frac{cosx}{sinx}[/itex]
cscx
secx
cotx
[itex]sin^2x + cos^2x = 1[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution



Left side:
=[itex]\frac{cscx +cotx}{cscx-cotx}[/itex]
=[itex]\frac{1/sinx + cosx / sinx}{1/sinx - cosx/sinx}[/itex]
=[itex]\frac{1+cosx}{1-cosx}[/itex]
 
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  • #2
You are almost there! What could you multiply the numerator and denominator of your fraction to get the RHS?
 
  • #3
You are almost there. What is sin^2x in terms of cos^2x?

EDIT: Just a minute late. -.-
 
  • #4
=[itex]\frac{1+cosx}{1-cosx}[/itex]
=[itex]\frac{1+cosx}{1-cosx}[/itex] × [itex]\frac{1+cosx}{1+cosx}[/itex]
= [itex]\frac{1+2cosx + cos^2x}{1-cos^2x}[/itex]
=[itex]\frac{1+2cosx+cos^2x}{sin^2x}[/itex]

thanks guys
 

What is the process for proving a trigonometric identity?

The process for proving a trigonometric identity involves manipulating the given equation using various trigonometric identities and properties until both sides are equal.

What are some common trigonometric identities used in proving identities?

Some common trigonometric identities used in proving identities include the Pythagorean identities, double angle identities, and sum and difference identities.

What are some tips for successfully proving a trigonometric identity?

Some tips for successfully proving a trigonometric identity include being familiar with common identities, starting with the more complex side of the equation, and breaking down the equation into smaller, more manageable steps.

How do you know if a trigonometric identity is true?

A trigonometric identity is considered true if both sides of the equation produce the same value for all possible values of the variables involved.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when proving a trigonometric identity?

Common mistakes to avoid when proving a trigonometric identity include forgetting to simplify both sides of the equation, making incorrect substitutions, and using incorrect trigonometric identities.

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