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

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving trigonometric functions given that \( \cos(t) = -\frac{9}{10} \) within the interval \( \pi < t < \frac{3\pi}{2} \). Participants explore how to calculate \( \cos(2t) \), \( \sin(2t) \), \( \cos\left(\frac{t}{2}\right) \), and \( \sin\left(\frac{t}{2}\right) \) using trigonometric identities.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about how to begin solving the problem and requests assistance.
  • Another participant reiterates the need for using specific trigonometric identities, but also seeks clarification on their application.
  • A later reply provides calculated values for \( \cos(2t) \), \( \sin(2t) \), \( \cos\left(\frac{t}{2}\right) \), and \( \sin\left(\frac{t}{2}\right) \), claiming correctness without detailing the steps taken.
  • Another participant outlines a method to find \( \sin(t) \) based on the given cosine value and quadrant information, leading to further calculations for \( \cos(2t) \) and \( \sin(2t) \) using derived sine values.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the methodology for solving the problem, as some express confusion while others provide solutions without detailing their reasoning. Multiple approaches are presented, indicating a lack of agreement on a single method.

Contextual Notes

Some participants rely on specific trigonometric identities, but there is uncertainty regarding their application in this context. The discussion does not resolve the steps or assumptions necessary for deriving the answers.

lastochka
Messages
29
Reaction score
0
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!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
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:

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

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

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

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

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K