Solve Math Trig Identities w/ Sin & Cos Only

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on solving the trigonometric identity (1 + tanx)/(1 - tanx) = tan(x + π/4) using only sine and cosine. Participants suggest substituting the values of sin(π/4) and cos(π/4) to simplify the right side. The conversation highlights the importance of proper notation, as one user initially misrepresented the left side of the equation. After some confusion, the user realizes the correct approach to simplify the expression. The thread concludes with a resolution to the initial problem, emphasizing the need for clarity in mathematical notation.
Stanc
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Hi I am in need of some help for this question:

1+tanx/1-tanx = tan(x+(∏/4))

It is easy to solve with the tan trig identites on the right side however, my teacher had told me to do it with SIN and COS only. I am not sure if its possible and was looking for some insight

Left Side:
Cosx+Sinx/Cosx-Sinx


Right Side:
End up with
{(SinxCos∏/4) + (CosxSin∏/4)}/ (CosxCos∏/4) - (SinxSin∏/4)

Can anyone give me some insight?
 
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A good first step is to replace cos(\pi/4) and sin(\pi/4) by their actual values.
 
pasmith said:
A good first step is to replace cos(\pi/4) and sin(\pi/4) by their actual values.

Yes. I have tried that but then i get stuck at:

(Sinx(√2/2)) + (Cosx(√2/2)) / (Cosx(√2/2)) - (Sinx(√2/2))

IS there anything i can do?
 
Don't get confused by all the notation. This is just the same as simplfying something like
$$\frac{3a + 3b}{3c - 3d}$$
 
AlephZero said:
Don't get confused by all the notation. This is just the same as simplfying something like
$$\frac{3a + 3b}{3c - 3d}$$

I don't think I am catching it. I understand how to simplify the example you had but i cannot factor out a sin or a cos?
 
Nevermind, I feel reallydumb... i got it, thanks guys
 
Stanc said:
Hi I am in need of some help for this question:

1+tanx/1-tanx = tan(x+(∏/4))
The left side needs parentheses!

What you wrote is 1 + (tanx)/1 - tanx, which is equal to 1.

What you meant was (1 + tanx)/(1 - tanx).
 
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