Cos^2+Sin^2 = 1 even with coefficients?

[Tyrion101]

I have a problem that works out to this s, but with a coefficient, what do I do with it from this point?

 

[SteamKing]

If you have a problem, please post it in one of the HW forums and use the HW template. As it stands, it is unclear what you are trying to find.

 

[Tyrion101]

The basic trig identity I was merely asking if it applied also when there were coefficients, can you factor them out if you realize it is the most basic of identities?

 

[SteamKing]

The basic trig identity I was merely asking if it applied also when there were coefficients, can you factor them out if you realize it is the most basic of identities?

If you are asking does x * cos²θ + x * sin²θ = x, then the answer is yes.

If you are asking does y * cos²θ + x * sin²θ = y + x, then the answer is no.

Remember, the normal rules of algebra in making the proper simplification.

 

[Mentallic]

The basic trig identity I was merely asking if it applied also when there were coefficients, can you factor them out if you realize it is the most basic of identities?

Please give an example, because you're misusing the term "coefficient".

 

[Tyrion101]

An example: 5Cos^2x +5Sin^2x, I'm on my iPad and don't have access to theta, so just assume it's there. Are these treated as separate variables or the same since if you took away the 5 it would equal 1?

 

[Mentallic]

That's equivalent to one of the results Steamking posted.

Try factoring out the number 5, and then apply the rule that you know.

 

[Tyrion101]

Ok thanks! I just wasn't sure how that rule worked with this kind of problem.