How to deal with INVERSE TANGENT?

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    Inverse Tangent
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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the value of X in an equation that includes the inverse tangent function. The equation is set in the context of trigonometric relationships, specifically involving the tangent of an angle expressed in radians.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss how to eliminate the inverse tangent by taking the tangent of both sides of the equation. There is also a focus on the correct interpretation of the equation's components, particularly regarding the placement of parentheses and the implications of using radians versus degrees.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, clarifying the structure of the equation and confirming the approach of taking the tangent of both sides. There is a recognition of the need for careful handling of units and expressions, but no consensus has been reached on the final approach or solution.

Contextual Notes

There is some confusion regarding the correct placement of parentheses in the equation, which affects the interpretation of the denominator. Additionally, the discussion highlights the importance of maintaining consistency in using radians versus degrees throughout the calculations.

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Homework Statement



Find X. Given the following Equation2.094 radians =tan^-1(2*x*(1.11)/1-(1.11)^2)

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



How do you get rid of inverse tangent?

Here's what i got

tan(2.094((180/pi))*(1-(1.11)^2) / 2*1.11 = X
 
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bmed90 said:

Homework Statement



Find X. Given the following Equation


2.094 radians =tan^-1(2*x*(1.11)/1-(1.11)^2)
This -- (2*x*(1.11)/1-(1.11)^2) -- is missing some parentheses.

Is it supposed to be this?
$$ \frac{2x \cdot 1.11}{(1 - 1.11)^2}$$

bmed90 said:

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



How do you get rid of inverse tangent?
Take the tangent of both sides.
bmed90 said:
Here's what i got

tan(2.094((180/pi))*(1-(1.11)^2) / 2*1.11 = X
 
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No, the 1.11 in the denominator is squared instead of (1-1.11)^2

So the denom is

(1-(1.11)^2)Sorry my mistake
 
You are doing the right thing, taking the tangent of both sides. However you do not want to use the ##180/\pi## which converts radians to degrees. (Also, if you really wish to convert back to degrees, you have to convert everything, not just one factor. )

Usually if there is an x involved we assume we are in radians, which are really arclength, and so compatible with lengths on the x-axis.

Go ahead and compute it out.
 
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