Are c1 cos(wt) + c2 sin(wt) and A sin(wt + phi) Equivalent?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Knight
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Trigonometric
AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on proving the equivalence of the expressions x(t) = c1 cos(wt) + c2 sin(wt) and x(t) = A sin(wt + phi). The user seeks guidance on how to start the proof, specifically mentioning the use of trigonometric identities like sin(alpha + beta) and cos(alpha + beta). A suggestion is made to apply these identities by setting alpha as wt and beta as phi, noting that sin(phi) and cos(phi) are constants. The discussion emphasizes the importance of correctly applying these identities to demonstrate the equivalence. Overall, the conversation aims to clarify the mathematical relationship between the two expressions.
Knight
Messages
6
Reaction score
0
Hi. I have to show that
x(t)=c1 cos(wt) + c2 sin(wt) '(1)'
and
x(t) = A sin(wt + phi)
are equivalent. I know I have to use
sin(alpha + beta) = sin(alpha)cos(beta) + cos(alpha)sin(beta)
or
cos(alpha +beta)= cos(alpha)cos(beta) - sin(alpha)sin(beta)

I have been strugling with this problem for a long time, trying to multiply expression (1) with cos(beta) and so on but I don't think I am getting anywere. Could someone please give me a little hint how to begin on this problem?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Try applying sin(alpha + beta) = sin(alpha)cos(beta) + cos(alpha)sin(beta) to x(t) = A sin(wt + phi)

Let alpha = wt and beta = phi, and since phi is some constant (phase angle), then sin(phi) and cos(phi) are constants.
 
That was easy.
Thanks.:smile:
 
Back
Top