How Can I Simplify Trigonometric Expressions in My Homework?

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The discussion focuses on simplifying the trigonometric expression tan(x)cos(x). The user initially rewrites it as sin(x)/cos(x) * cos(x) but struggles to proceed further. Participants suggest that understanding basic algebra concepts, such as canceling terms, can aid in simplification. They explain that multiplying by cos(x) cancels it out, resulting in sin(x). Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of foundational algebra skills in tackling trigonometric problems.
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i have some problems (37 actually) that i have tried vvery much to work on and have gotten nowhere

just to give you an example, the first one is

tanx cosx i have to simplify this

the first thing i would do is make it

sinx
cos cosx but after this I am stumped. the other problems are along this same idea

i do not think that i will get much acomplished doing this on a fourum so if anyone would be so kind as to help me, my AIM sn is AdamChess4.

thank you and i would really apriciate any help you can give me.

Adam
 
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simplify

tan(x)cos(x) ?

\frac{sin(x)}{cos(x)}cos(x).. you can't seriously not know what to do next..
 
well, i honestly dont, e are just learning this and i am having trouble finding LCDs and factoring these types of operations,
Adam
 
Arsonade said:
well, i honestly dont, e are just learning this and i am having trouble finding LCDs and factoring these types of operations,
Adam


Ok. In that expression you have sin x/cos x, so you're dividing by cosine. Then you multiply by cosine. What happens?
 
i'd suggest you brush up on a little algebra before tackling any trig
 
I can only imagine you are getting intimidated by the sin(x) and cos(x) functions. Try writing y = sin(x) and x = cos(x) then simplify. Hopefully going through this exercise will be helpful.
 
\frac{sinx}{cosx}=tanx

\frac{sinx}{cosx} \times cosx

The two cosx gets crossed out.

then you get sinx

Maybe I am wrong.
 
Last edited:
when

x
-- y
y

= x
theres a restriction that y cannot be 0 though, but in most cases its irrelevant

when

x
---
y/x

you change this to multiplication
x * x/y

x^2/y

Hope this helps!
 
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