MHB Easy Identity Question: Proving 2cos(x)sin(x) = sin(2x)

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The identity 2cos(x)sin(x) = sin(2x) is confirmed as correct. The discussion highlights the importance of proper notation in trigonometric expressions, recommending the use of either $\sin x$ or $\sin(x)$ instead of sinx. It emphasizes that when combining functions, parentheses should be used to clarify the argument. The mention of double-angle formulas indicates a resource for further exploration of trigonometric identities. Proper notation is essential for clear mathematical communication.
tmt1
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Hi,

I just want to double check that

2cos(x)sin(x) = 2sin(x)cos(x) = sin(x)2cos(x) = sin(2x)

Thanks,

Tim
 
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Yes. the identity is correct. You can find a list of trigonometric identities in Wikipedia. See, in particular, double-angle formulas.

A couple of remarks about notation. One should write $\sin x$ (with a space) or $\sin(x)$, not sinx. If the argument is followed by another factor, then the argument should be wrapped in parentheses. For example, $\sin x\cos x$ can theoretically be parse either as $\sin(x)\cos(x)$ or as $\sin(x\cos(x))$, but $\sin(x)\cos(x)$ clearly shows that the argument of sine is just $x$.
 
Here is a little puzzle from the book 100 Geometric Games by Pierre Berloquin. The side of a small square is one meter long and the side of a larger square one and a half meters long. One vertex of the large square is at the center of the small square. The side of the large square cuts two sides of the small square into one- third parts and two-thirds parts. What is the area where the squares overlap?

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