How to Solve Trigonometric Functions When \( \cos(t) = -\frac{9}{10} \)?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving trigonometric functions given that \( \cos(t) = -\frac{9}{10} \) within the interval \( \pi < t < \frac{3\pi}{2} \). The final results are: \( \cos(2t) = \frac{31}{50} \), \( \sin(2t) = \frac{9\sqrt{19}}{50} \), \( \cos\left(\frac{t}{2}\right) = -\frac{1}{2\sqrt{5}} \), and \( \sin\left(\frac{t}{2}\right) = \frac{\sqrt{19}}{2\sqrt{5}} \). The calculations utilize key trigonometric identities, including \( \sin^2(x) + \cos^2(x) \equiv 1 \) and the double angle formulas for sine and cosine.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric identities, specifically sine and cosine functions.
  • Knowledge of the unit circle and the properties of angles in different quadrants.
  • Familiarity with the double angle formulas for sine and cosine.
  • Ability to manipulate square roots and fractions in mathematical expressions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of trigonometric identities in various contexts.
  • Learn about the unit circle and how it relates to trigonometric functions.
  • Explore the implications of angles in different quadrants on sine and cosine values.
  • Practice solving trigonometric equations using identities and algebraic manipulation.
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Students studying trigonometry, mathematics educators, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of trigonometric functions and identities.

lastochka
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Hello,

I am trying to solve this. This material is not covered in my class, but I still want to know how to do it.
If cos(t)=$\frac{-9}{10}$ where $\pi$ <t<$\frac{3\pi}{2}$ find the values of

cos(2t)=
sin(2t)=
cos($\frac{t}{2}$)=
sin($\frac{t}{2}$)=

Give exact answers, do not use decimal numbers. The answer should be a fraction or an arithmetic expression.

I have no idea how to even start with it. I will appreciate your help!
 
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lastochka said:
Hello,

I am trying to solve this. This material is not covered in my class, but I still want to know how to do it.
If cos(t)=$\frac{-9}{10}$ where $\pi$ <t<$\frac{3\pi}{2}$ find the values of

cos(2t)=
sin(2t)=
cos($\frac{t}{2}$)=
sin($\frac{t}{2}$)=

Give exact answers, do not use decimal numbers. The answer should be a fraction or an arithmetic expression.

I have no idea how to even start with it. I will appreciate your help!

You are expected to use the following identities:

$\displaystyle \begin{align*} \sin^2{(x)} + \cos^2{(x)} &\equiv 1 \\ \\ \cos{(2x)} &\equiv \cos^2{(x)} - \sin^2{(x)} \\ &\equiv 2\cos^2{(x)} - 1 \\ &\equiv 1 - 2\sin^2{(x)} \\ \\ \sin{(2x)} &\equiv 2\sin{(x)}\cos{(x)} \end{align*}$

See what you can do...
 
Prove It said:
You are expected to use the following identities:

$\displaystyle \begin{align*} \sin^2{(x)} + \cos^2{(x)} &\equiv 1 \\ \\ \cos{(2x)} &\equiv \cos^2{(x)} - \sin^2{(x)} \\ &\equiv 2\cos^2{(x)} - 1 \\ &\equiv 1 - 2\sin^2{(x)} \\ \\ \sin{(2x)} &\equiv 2\sin{(x)}\cos{(x)} \end{align*}$

See what you can do...

Well, I know these identities, but as I said I am not sure how to use them in this question. Can you elaborate? Thanks
 
I finally did this problem and the answers are correct. Posting just in case anyone else is interested


cos(2t)=$\frac{31}{50}$

sin(2t)=$\frac{9\sqrt{19}}{50}$

cos(t2)=$\frac{-\sqrt{5}}{10}$

sin(t2)=$\frac{\sqrt{95}}{10}$
 
This is how I would work the problem...we know $t$ is in quadrant III, and so sine and cosine of $t$ are both negative.

$$\sin(t)=-\sqrt{1-\left(-\frac{9}{10}\right)^2}=-\sqrt{\frac{19}{100}}=-\frac{\sqrt{19}}{10}$$

Now, we find:

$$\cos(2t)=\frac{81}{100}-\frac{19}{100}=\frac{62}{100}=\frac{31}{50}$$

$$\sin(2t)=2\left(-\frac{\sqrt{19}}{10}\right)\left(-\frac{9}{10}\right)=\frac{9\sqrt{19}}{50}$$

$$\cos\left(\frac{t}{2}\right)=-\sqrt{\frac{1-\frac{9}{10}}{2}}=-\frac{1}{2\sqrt{5}}$$

$$\sin\left(\frac{t}{2}\right)=\sqrt{\frac{1+\frac{9}{10}}{2}}=\frac{\sqrt{19}}{2\sqrt{5}}$$
 

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