How Can I Simplify These Trigonometric Expressions?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on simplifying various trigonometric expressions, specifically: 1) -3sin^(5)x - 3sin^(3)x cos^(2)x, 2) (2cot^(2)x - 3cotx - 9) / (cot^(2)x - 9), 3) 5cos^(4)x - 5sin^(4)x, and 4) tan^(2)x + (1 + sec x)^2. Key techniques include using the Pythagorean identity sin^2{x} + cos^2{x} = 1 for substitutions, factoring quadratics, and rewriting expressions in terms of a single trigonometric function. The discussion emphasizes the importance of proper notation and the application of algebraic identities for simplification.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric identities, particularly the Pythagorean identity.
  • Familiarity with algebraic manipulation, including factoring and simplifying expressions.
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions such as sine, cosine, tangent, and cotangent.
  • Ability to work with quadratic equations and their factorizations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Pythagorean identities in-depth, focusing on their applications in trigonometric simplifications.
  • Learn how to factor polynomials, particularly quadratics, in trigonometric contexts.
  • Explore advanced trigonometric identities, including double angle and half angle formulas.
  • Practice simplifying complex trigonometric expressions using substitution methods.
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those focusing on trigonometry, algebra, and calculus. This discussion is beneficial for anyone looking to enhance their skills in simplifying trigonometric expressions and understanding their underlying principles.

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these are a couple more math problems I am having trouble with. if you can help me i would appreciate it. if you could just put the number of the problem your helping me with that would be great

1)simplify -3sin^(5)x - 3sin^(3)x cos^(2)x

2.)simplify 2cot^(2)x -3cotx - 9 / cot^(2)x - 9

3.)simplify 5cos^(4)x - 5sin^(4)x and write in terms of cos x.

4.)simplify tan^(2)x + (1 + sec x)^2 write in terms of sec x.
 
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mathopressor said:
these are a couple more math problems I am having trouble with. if you can help me i would appreciate it. if you could just put the number of the problem your helping me with that would be great

1)simplify -3sin^(5)x - 3sin^(3)x cos^(2)x
What is the highest common factor in this expression?

Also, notice that almost everything is in terms of sin but we have a \cos^2{x} term. Remember this useful formula

\sin^2{x}+\cos^2{x}=1

so

\cos^2{x}=1-\sin^2{x}

if you apply this substitution, then you'll have everything in terms of sin and will probably be able to simplify even further.


mathopressor said:
2.)simplify 2cot^(2)x -3cotx - 9 / cot^(2)x - 9

You should put brackets around the numerator and denominator as so

(2cot^(2)x -3cotx - 9) / (cot^(2)x - 9)

else it could be misinterpreted as being

2\cot^2{x}-3\cot{x}-\frac{9}{\cot^2{x}}-9

Begin by letting y=\cot{x} so you'll have a quadratic in y in the numerator and denominator, then factorize those quadratics and you should be able to cancel out a common factor, and then convert back to cot(x) at the end.

mathopressor said:
3.)simplify 5cos^(4)x - 5sin^(4)x and write in terms of cos x.
Can you factorize x^4-y^4 as a difference of two squares?

mathopressor said:
4.)simplify tan^(2)x + (1 + sec x)^2 write in terms of sec x.

That important formula from earlier

\sin^2{x}+\cos^2{x}=1

if we divide through by \cos^2{x} then we get

\frac{\sin^2{x}}{\cos^2{x}}+\frac{\cos^2{x}}{\cos^2{x}}=\frac{1}{\cos^2{x}}

\tan^2{x}+1=\sec^2{x}

So now you can use this to get rid of the tan(x) term in your expression.
 

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