Determining the constructability of angles

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SUMMARY

The angles 6 degrees, 5 degrees, and 7.5 degrees are examined for their constructability based on the constructibility of their cosine values. The discussion highlights the use of the trigonometric identity cos(3θ) = 4cos³(θ) - 3cos(θ) to determine if these angles can be expressed as roots of a polynomial of degree three or lower. The conclusion remains unresolved as the relationships for 6 degrees, 5 degrees, and 7.5 degrees have not been successfully simplified to demonstrate their constructability.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of constructible angles and their properties
  • Familiarity with trigonometric identities, specifically cos(3θ)
  • Knowledge of polynomial equations and the rational roots theorem
  • Basic concepts of geometric constructions using a compass and straightedge
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the constructibility of angles using the cosine function
  • Study the implications of the rational roots theorem in trigonometric contexts
  • Explore higher-level trigonometric identities and their applications in angle constructibility
  • Investigate the constructibility of angles in regular polygons, particularly pentagons and their related angles
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Mathematicians, geometry enthusiasts, and students studying trigonometry and geometric constructions who are interested in the properties of constructible angles.

trap101
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Are 6 degrees, 5 degrees, and 7.5 degrees constructable?

So based on the theorems that I know, these angles are constructable iff the cos\vartheta is constructible. So all that is left for me to do is show if cos\vartheta is constructable.

For 6 degrees, I tried to get a relatonship with the trig identity of cos(3\vartheta) = 4cos3(\vartheta) - 3cos(\vartheta) because from there I could use the fact that if I can obtain a solution of the 3rd degree polynomial, then based on the rational roots theorem I could determine if the angle is constructible. My issue is, I couldn't find a simple relationship for 6degrees. I tried some higher level trig identities and "attempted" to simplify, but it started to appear futile.

So now I'm at a cross roads. Same with the other two.
 
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trap101 said:
Are 6 degrees, 5 degrees, and 7.5 degrees constructable?

So based on the theorems that I know, these angles are constructable iff the cos\vartheta is constructible. So all that is left for me to do is show if cos\vartheta is constructable.

For 6 degrees, I tried to get a relatonship with the trig identity of cos(3\vartheta) = 4cos3(\vartheta) - 3cos(\vartheta) because from there I could use the fact that if I can obtain a solution of the 3rd degree polynomial, then based on the rational roots theorem I could determine if the angle is constructible. My issue is, I couldn't find a simple relationship for 6degrees. I tried some higher level trig identities and "attempted" to simplify, but it started to appear futile.

So now I'm at a cross roads. Same with the other two.

Think about polygons that have constructible angles. A pentagon is constructible. That means 72 degrees is constructible. If that's constructible then 36 degrees is also constructible. Why? 30 degrees is also constructible. Why? That would mean 36-30 is also constructible. Why?
 

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