How Do You Solve tan(2x - 5) = cot(x + 5) in the Interval 0 < x < 90?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the equation tan(2x - 5) = cot(x + 5) within the interval 0 < x < 90. Participants explore various methods and approaches to find solutions, including algebraic manipulations and trigonometric identities.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Mathematical reasoning, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty after reaching the equation tan(2x - 5)tan(x + 5) = 1 and seeks further guidance.
  • Another participant suggests using the substitution $\cot\alpha=\tan(\frac\pi 2-\alpha)$ and applying $\arctan$ as a potential method.
  • Several participants propose an approach involving the identity $\tan{\alpha} = \cot{\beta}$, leading to the equation $\cos(\alpha + \beta) = 0$.
  • One participant claims to have found a solution of $$30^{\circ}$$ using the aforementioned approach and questions its correctness.
  • Another participant verifies the solution by substituting it back into the original equation and checks if $\tan(55^\circ) = \cot(35^\circ)$ holds true.
  • A later reply mentions uncertainty about calculating trigonometric values without a calculator and suggests drawing a right triangle to visualize the angles.
  • One participant expresses confusion regarding the relationship between trigonometric functions and their cofunctions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple approaches and methods to solve the equation, but there is no consensus on a definitive solution or method. Some participants agree on the validity of certain steps, while others express uncertainty or seek clarification.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not resolved the mathematical steps fully, and there are dependencies on specific trigonometric identities and assumptions that remain unaddressed.

Monoxdifly
MHB
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If 0 < x < 90, what is the solution of tan(2x - 5) = cot(x + 5)?
I got stuck in tan(2x - 5)tan(x + 5) = 1. What should I do after that?
 
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Suppose we substitute $\cot\alpha=\tan(\frac\pi 2-\alpha)$ and apply $\arctan$? (Wondering)
 
another approach ...

$\tan{\alpha} = \cot{\beta}$

$\dfrac{\sin{\alpha}}{\cos{\alpha}} = \dfrac{\cos{\beta}}{\sin{\beta}}$

$\cos{\alpha} \cdot \cos{\beta} = \sin{\alpha} \cdot \sin{\beta}$

$\cos{\alpha} \cdot \cos{\beta} - \sin{\alpha} \cdot \sin{\beta} = 0$

$\cos(\alpha + \beta) = 0$
 
skeeter said:
another approach ...

$\tan{\alpha} = \cot{\beta}$

$\dfrac{\sin{\alpha}}{\cos{\alpha}} = \dfrac{\cos{\beta}}{\sin{\beta}}$

$\cos{\alpha} \cdot \cos{\beta} = \sin{\alpha} \cdot \sin{\beta}$

$\cos{\alpha} \cdot \cos{\beta} - \sin{\alpha} \cdot \sin{\beta} = 0$

$\cos(\alpha + \beta) = 0$

I like this other approach since I can comprehend it easier. I got $$30^{\circ}$$ this way. Is that right?
 
Monoxdifly said:
I like this other approach since I can comprehend it easier. I got $$30^{\circ}$$ this way. Is that right?

substitute your solution into the original equation ...

is $\tan(55^\circ) = \cot(35^\circ)$ ?
 
skeeter said:
substitute your solution into the original equation ...

is $\tan(55^\circ) = \cot(35^\circ)$ ?

I don't know, I can't count that without using a calculator or manually measuring the ratios with ruler and protactor.
Oh wait, I can just draw a random right triangle and label the angles.
Oh yes, $\tan(55^\circ) = \cot(35^\circ)$.
 

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