Lim x→7π/4 of (cosx + sinx)/(cos2x)

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SUMMARY

The limit as x approaches 7π/4 of (cosx + sinx)/(cos2x) can be simplified using the double angle identity for cosine, resulting in (cos^2x - sin^2x). After factoring and canceling out (cosx + sinx), the expression simplifies to 1/(cosx - sinx). Direct substitution of cos(7π/4) = √2/2 and sin(7π/4) = -√2/2 leads to an incorrect conclusion of √2, indicating an algebraic error in the calculations.

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  • Understanding of trigonometric functions and their values at specific angles
  • Familiarity with the double angle identities in trigonometry
  • Basic algebraic manipulation skills, including factoring and simplifying expressions
  • Knowledge of limits in calculus
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  • Explore common pitfalls in trigonometric limit problems
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Rasine
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lim x-> 7pi/4 (cosx+sinx)/(cos2x)

so what i was trying to do here was replace cos2x with the double angle id which is cos^2x-sin^2x

then i factor that and cancle out cosx+sinx

now i have 1/cosx-sinx...so i tried direct sub. and i get 1/sqroot2/2+squroot2/2 which i end up with sqroot 2 but that isn't the right answer

isn't cos 7(pi/4)= squroot 2/2 and sin 7(pi/4)= -squroot2/2?


please show me where i am going wrong
 
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You should end up with [itex]\frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}=\frac{\sqrt{2}}{2}[/itex].
 
He means you did your algebra wrong btw.
 

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