Closed form solution to sum of sine positive zero-crossings

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the existence of a closed form solution for the sum of sine functions, specifically focusing on the conditions for positive zero-crossings of the function defined by the sum of three sine terms. Participants explore the mathematical implications of the conditions set for the function and its derivative.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks a closed form solution for the simultaneous conditions of the sine sum being zero and its derivative being positive.
  • Another participant questions the definition of a closed form solution and suggests that specific values for constants could be tested to meet the conditions.
  • A participant reformulates the problem in LaTeX, clarifying the function and conditions for finding the values of t.
  • One participant provides a hint involving a trigonometric identity that could simplify the sine sum.
  • Another participant corrects the notation regarding the derivative condition, suggesting it should be evaluated at t rather than at zero.
  • A later reply states that while there are infinitely many solutions for t given arbitrary constants, a general closed form solution may not exist except for specific cases where the constants have particular relationships.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the existence of a closed form solution, with some suggesting that it may only be possible under specific conditions, while others propose that numerical or graphical methods could be used to find solutions.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the complexity of the problem, noting that the existence of a closed form solution may depend on the relationships between the constants a, b, and c, and that the conditions set for the function and its derivative introduce additional layers of complexity.

Purplepixie
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Hello,
I would like to know, if there's a closed form solution to the following problem:

Given a sum of say, 3 sines, with the form y = sin(a.2.PI.t) + sin(b.2.PI.t) + sin(c.2.PI.t) where a,b,c are constants and PI = 3.141592654 and the periods in the expression are multiplication signs, what are the values of t at which two conditions are simultaneously true: (1) y = 0 and (2) the derivative dy/dt > 0. I am calling such points positive zero-crossing points, for want of a better name.

In other words, is there a closed form solution to the two simultaneous conditions:

sin(a.2.PI.t) + sin(b.2.PI.t) + sin(c.2.PI.t) = 0
and
2.PI.a.cos(a.2.PI.t) + 2.PI.b.cos(b.2.PI.t) + 2.PI.c.cos(c.2.PI.t) > 0

Many thanks for any insights and assistance!
 
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What do you mean by a closed form solution? Certainly one can figure out values. Pick ##a=b=c=1## for example. I think you will have to pick values to meet one condition and test the other with those values. One can easily do it graphically also.
 
I will write the problem in LaTeX, please correct me if I am wrong:

Given ##a, b, c##, define $$f(t)=\sin(2\pi at)+\sin(2\pi bt)+\sin(2\pi ct)$$Find ##t## such that ##f(t)=0## and ##\frac{df}{dt}(0)>0##
 
Hint: \sin(x) + \sin(y) = 2 \sin(\frac{x+y}{2}) \cos(\frac{x-y}{2}).
 
mathhabibi said:
I will write the problem in LaTeX, please correct me if I am wrong:

Given ##a, b, c##, define $$f(t)=\sin(2\pi at)+\sin(2\pi bt)+\sin(2\pi ct)$$Find ##t## such that ##f(t)=0## and ##\frac{df}{dt}(0)>0##
You mean
##\frac{df}{dt}(t)>0##?
 
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There are an infinite number of solutions for ##t## given an arbitrary set of constants {##a,b,c##} however, I believe this problem is not solvable in closed form in general except for special cases when the constants have certain relationships.
 
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