Trig Quadrant Question: Solving for secx=-5.2, 0≤x≤2π

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The discussion revolves around solving the equation sec(x) = -5.2 within the interval 0 ≤ x ≤ 2π. The initial poster finds two potential solutions, 1.76 and 4.52, but the answer key only acknowledges 1.76. Clarification reveals that the second solution, 4.52, is valid but lies in the fourth quadrant where cosine is positive, leading to confusion. Additionally, a mistake in evaluating cot(4.47) is corrected, highlighting the importance of using the correct formula. The conversation concludes with the consensus that there should indeed be two solutions for the secant equation.
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Solve: secx=-5.2, 0≤x≤2π

I'm getting 2 answers:
1.76, 4.52

The answer key is telling me there is only one
1.76

How do I only get 1 answer from this?

Thanks,
 
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Evaluate: cot4.47

I'm getting .23 when i plug in: tan(1/4.47)

but the answer key says .25
am I doing something wrong?

thanks
 
1. \sec x = -5.2, \; 0\leq x\leq 2\pi

\frac{1}{\cos x} = - 5.2

\cos x = -\frac{1}{5.2} =

\arccos(\cos x) = 1.76

x = 1.762. \cot 4.47 = \frac{1}{\tan 4.47} not \tan(\frac{1}{4.47})
 
thanks, I see what I did wrong for #2

but, why doesn't #1 have 2 answers?
 
Because the second answer is in quadrant 4, where cos is positive.
 
No, it's in the 3rd quadrant. There should be 2 solutions.
 
Yes, there should be 2 answers. Cheers. :)
 
Alright
Thanks everyone
 
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