Not sure if i've got the trig functions correct

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the confusion surrounding trigonometric identities in A2 Edexcel maths. The user initially states that sin^2(x) = cos^2(x) = 1, which is corrected to sin^2(x) + cos^2(x) = 1. They express uncertainty about dividing by sin^2(x) and whether their derived equations are accurate, particularly regarding the relationships between tan, sec, and cosec. Participants emphasize the importance of correctly applying trigonometric identities and suggest verifying formulas by manipulating them. The thread highlights common pitfalls in remembering and applying trig functions correctly.
groom03
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I'm doing A2 Edexcel maths and i keep on forgetting the trig functions so can someone take a look and tell me if I've got it right.

So far:

Sin^2(x)=cos^2(x)=1

so:

sin^2(x)=1-cos^2(x)

cos^2(x)=1-sin^2(x)

this is where i get abit stuck

(sin^2(x)+cos^2(x)=1)/cos^2(x) = tan^2(x)+1=sec^2(x)

(sin^2(x)+cos^2(x)=1)/sin^2(x) = tan^2(x)+1=sec^2(x)

i'm not sure if I've got them wrong or if I'm meant to divide by sin(x) or sin^2(x)

Please help me :smile:
 
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just looked and i don't think i should have divided by sin^2(x) because the powers on sin/cos would be wrong... i think
 
groom03 said:
just looked and i don't think i should have divided by sin^2(x) because the powers on sin/cos would be wrong... i think

\frac{a^2}{b^2} = (\frac{a}{b})^2, b \neq 0
 
groom03 said:
(sin^2(x)+cos^2(x)=1)/cos^2(x) = tan^2(x)+1=sec^2(x)

(sin^2(x)+cos^2(x)=1)/sin^2(x) = tan^2(x)+1=sec^2(x)

tan = sin/cos.

1st equation here looks good.
2nd equation: you get a cos/sin term, that is not = tan.
 
groom03 said:
I'm doing A2 Edexcel maths and i keep on forgetting the trig functions …

Hi groom03! :smile:

hmm … how to remember trigonometric identities … ? :rolleyes:

I always find that the safest plan is to write down what I think the formula is, and then multiply by cos2 or sin2 to check it.

For example, if I get confused :confused: and think cosec2 + cot2 = 1, then I multiply by sin2 and get 1 + cos2 = sin2 … which it isn't! :wink:
 
Redbelly98 said:
tan = sin/cos.

1st equation here looks good.
2nd equation: you get a cos/sin term, that is not = tan.


i keep on getting sin/cos and cos/sin wrong, and i just realized the second equation should equal cosec^2(x).

Thanks for your help
 
groom03 said:
I'm doing A2 Edexcel maths and i keep on forgetting the trig functions so can someone take a look and tell me if I've got it right.

So far:

Sin^2(x)=cos^2(x)=1

I am guessing that this is a typo. You surely mean:

\sin^2(x) + \cos^2(x) =1
 
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