Bit foggy on this trig question

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the function arccos applied to the cosine of 2π, specifically how to derive the value of arccos(1) without a calculator.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the relationship between cosine and its inverse function, arccos, and question how to derive the value of arccos(1). There is mention of using graphing and memory techniques to understand the cosine function.

Discussion Status

Some participants provide insights into the properties of the cosine function and its inverse, while others express confusion about deriving the specific value of arccos(1). There is an ongoing exploration of definitions and relationships without reaching a consensus.

Contextual Notes

Participants are discussing the problem in the context of homework constraints, focusing on deriving values without the use of calculators or external aids.

yoleven
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Homework Statement


arccos(cos2[tex]\Pi[/tex])




The Attempt at a Solution


cos of 2[tex]\Pi[/tex] =1
how do I get the arccos of 1? Without a calculator.
Thanks
 
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You have to use either some log tables or your memory. More specifically if you know how to sketch the graph of a cos function then you would know immediately that [tex]\cos (2\pi n) = 1[/tex] where n is any integer (including 0).
 
Yes, I know how to get cos of 2[tex]\Pi[/tex]. It equals 1
I don't know how to get arccos of 1.
Could you help me with that?

I know that, for instance arccos [tex]\stackrel{\Pi}{4}[/tex] = [tex]\stackrel{1}{\sqrt{2}}[/tex]

But how do I figure out arccos 1.

I know it = 0 but I can't see how to derive this
 
arccos is inverse function of cos. So If you know that cos(2п)=1 you will know that arccos(1)=2п. Do you understand now?

Regards.

P.S arccos(1 / √2) = п/4
 
Last edited:
For any number, x, between 0 and [itex]\pi[/itex], arccos(cos(x))= x. That follows from the very definition of "arccos".
 

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