How many equations are there for the unit circle?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the various equations that can represent the unit circle, exploring different parameterizations and forms. Participants consider both traditional and less common representations, including trigonometric and complex forms, as well as potential connections to hyperbolic geometry.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant identifies the standard equation x² + y² = 1 and the trigonometric parameterization x = cos(t), y = sin(t) for t between 0 and 2π.
  • Another participant questions whether the complex representation x + iy = e^(it) is a separate equation or analogous to the trigonometric parameterization, suggesting it is analogous due to Euler's identity.
  • A different viewpoint introduces the equations r = cos(t) and r = sin(t), expressing uncertainty about whether these should be considered unit circles since they are off-center.
  • One participant humorously suggests that the equation x² + y² = 1 + a - a for any a could represent a unit circle, implying that there are infinitely many equations possible.
  • Another participant presents the parameterization x = cos(a), y = sin(a) and relates it to the earlier mentioned parameterization using t, indicating that all forms can be derived from the original by substituting functions for a variable.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on what constitutes a distinct equation for the unit circle, with no consensus on whether certain forms should be included or excluded. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the classification of some equations.

Contextual Notes

Some participants acknowledge the potential for infinitely many equations, raising questions about the definitions and parameters involved in representing the unit circle. There is also uncertainty regarding the implications of hyperbolic geometry on the concept of a unit circle.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those exploring mathematical representations of geometric shapes, particularly in the context of trigonometry, complex numbers, and geometry.

Wesleytf
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hopefully we all know x^2 + y^2 =1 and x=cost y=sint, t between 0 and 2pi.

There's also one with slope;

x= (1-t^2)/(1+t^2)
y= (2t)/(1+t^2)

I was wondering if this counts as a separate one

x+iy=e^it, t also between 0 and 2pi

or if this is analogous to the trig parameterization. I don't know a whole lot of trig(I'm not really a math man per se), but something in my gut tells me these two aren't really different... Anyway, I was just curious. I'd also be interested in any other ones.

I don't know much about hyperbolic geometry, can there be a unit circle for that?

I'm also starting to work through something as a set of ratios, but does anyone else have any other ideas?
 
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I was wondering if this counts as a separate one

x+iy=e^it, t also between 0 and 2pi

or if this is analogous to the trig parameterization.

It is analogous. Euler's identity eit = cost + isint.
 
There's also r=cost and r=sint, i don't know if you'd count them as unit circles though (they are off centre).
 
How about x^2 + y^2 = 1 + a - a for any a? :-p

It doesn't make much sense to ask this question, there are infinitely many equations we can come up with.
 
Wesleytf said:
x=cos a y=sin a, a between 0 and 2pi.
x= (1-t^2)/(1+t^2)
y= (2t)/(1+t^2)
This derives from the first by setting
[itex] t=\tan\frac{a}{2}[/itex]
An in fact they all can be found this way. Plug in any function (that has the required range) for a variable.
 

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