Is sec θ/sec θ = 2sec θ? | Math Q&A

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the mathematical expression involving secant functions, specifically whether sec θ / sec θ equals 2 sec θ. Participants are exploring the validity of this equation in the context of trigonometric identities.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants attempt to clarify the expression by referencing the property of division, noting that any non-zero number divided by itself equals one. Others draw parallels to algebraic expressions, questioning the validity of equating the two forms.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes various interpretations of the original question, with some participants providing insights into the properties of division and algebraic manipulation. There is no explicit consensus, but productive lines of reasoning are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants are operating under the assumption that sec(θ) is defined for the given θ, and they are considering the implications of dividing by zero in their reasoning.

CrossFit415
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Is sec theta / sec theta = 2 sec theta? Is this correct? Thanks
 
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With the exception of 0, any number divided by itself is 1. Assuming that [tex]\sec(\theta)[/tex] is defined for the given [tex]\theta[/tex] , [tex]\frac{\sec(\theta)}{\sec(\theta)} = 1[/tex]
 
Ok thanks
 
CrossFit415 said:
Is sec theta / sec theta = 2 sec theta? Is this correct? Thanks
This is a lot like asking whether x/x = 2x, which is generally not true. If you add one thing to another, equal thing, you get two of those things. IOW, x + x = 2x.

The reason for this is the distributive property.
x + x = x(1 + 1) = x * 2 = 2x.
 

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