MHB How can you maximize a trigonometric expression?

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To maximize the expression $\sin x \cos y + \sin y \cos z + \sin z \cos x$, it is essential to analyze the properties of sine and cosine functions, particularly their ranges and periodicity. The maximum value occurs when each term in the expression is maximized simultaneously, which can be achieved by setting specific angles for x, y, and z. Utilizing trigonometric identities and inequalities, such as the Cauchy-Schwarz inequality, can help in deriving the optimal values. The maximum value of the expression is found to be 1. The discussion emphasizes the importance of strategic angle selection in maximizing trigonometric expressions.
anemone
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Maximize $\sin x \cos y+\sin y \cos z+\sin z \cos x$ for all real $x,\,y$ and $z$.
 
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anemone said:
Maximize $\sin x \cos y+\sin y \cos z+\sin z \cos x$ for all real $x,\,y$ and $z$.

from cyclic symmetry it is maximum when $x = y =z$
we get expression = $\frac{3}{2} \sin 2x$ and when $x = y = z= \frac{\pi}{4}$(this is one of the values) it is maximum = $\frac{3}{2}$
 
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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