Cos^2(π/4): Why Does it Equal 1/2?

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SUMMARY

The value of cos²(π/4) equals 1/2, confirmed through the calculation of (√2/2)². The cosine of π/4 is √2/2, and squaring this value results in 1/2. This mathematical identity is a fundamental concept in trigonometry, illustrating the relationship between angles and their cosine values.

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  • Familiarity with the unit circle and angle measurements in radians.
  • Basic algebra skills, particularly squaring numbers.
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cos^2(∏/4)

Why does this equal to 1/2? Doesn't Cos(Pi/4)= √2/2 ?

Thanks
 
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What is (√2/2)^2?
 
\cos^2 \frac{\pi}{4}
= \left(\cos \frac{\pi}{4}\right)\left(\cos \frac{\pi}{4}\right)
= \left(\frac{\sqrt{2}}{2}\right)\left(\frac{\sqrt{2}}{2}\right)
= ?
 
Opps! Haha, thank you both, I know understand cos pi 4 now.
 
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