Help with Calculator Problem: cos of -0.175

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of the cosine of -0.175, where the original poster notes a discrepancy between their calculator's output and a physics book's assertion that the result is 100.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the range of the cosine function, with one noting that cosine values are always between -1 and 1. There is also a mention of the property that cos(-x) equals cos(x), suggesting a consideration of symmetry in trigonometric functions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants questioning the assumptions made regarding the output of the calculator and the interpretation of the physics book's statement. Some guidance has been offered regarding the nature of cosine values, but no consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

There appears to be confusion regarding the expected output of the cosine function and its scaling to reach a value of 100, which is not typical for cosine values.

starchild75
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Homework Statement



I typed in cos of -0.175 and I got .999999 and the physics book says it's 100. help!

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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starchild75 said:

Homework Statement



I typed in cos of -0.175 and I got .999999 and the physics book says it's 100. help!

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



cos() of anything is never going to be 100. It is always in the range of [-1,1]. You would have to scale it to reach 100, that is 100*cos()
 
i think this is enough for hint...

cos[-x]=cos x...
 
[tex]cos^{-1} (-0.175) = 100^0[/tex]
 

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