Not your normal Trigonometry Question

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a trigonometric equation involving the sine and cosine functions. The original poster seeks assistance in deriving the solution for the angle x from the equation provided, which relates to a physics problem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the original poster's attempts to use trigonometric identities, such as sin²(x) = 1 - cos²(x), and question the validity of the provided link to the equation. There are inquiries about the context of the problem, including whether it is part of a take-home test.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with some participants providing suggestions for using trigonometric identities while others express skepticism about the approach. The original poster has indicated they have found the answer but seeks to understand the method for future reference.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the problem being from a mastering physics assignment, which may influence the nature of the help requested. Participants also note the importance of adhering to homework guidelines regarding assistance.

chrisy2012
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Homework Statement



The equation is here:
http://www.wolframalpha.com/input/?i...E2/(.98)
You are trying to solve for the angle in this case x

wolframalpha gave a solution to this problem but it did not show the steps and I can't use that on the test. So can anyone please do the honor of showing me how to get there?

Homework Equations


Any identities that has to do with trig


The Attempt at a Solution


I tried using sin^2 = 1 - cos^2 but that doesn't help
 
Physics news on Phys.org
link fail
 
First off, the link doesn't work.

Second, is this part of a take-home test? Aren't there rules about getting help for things like this?
 
oops, i swore it worked before
well anyways the equation is this
sin^2(x)/cos(x) = v^2/gR
everything on the right hand side is known and you are solving for x
 
And Don't worry, it's not a take home test, it's one of the problems from mastering physics, I have already gotten the right answer but I want to know how to solve these kind of questions in case it comes up on the test.
 
Try using trigonometric identity cos^2(x) = 1 - sin^2(x), and move all the cosines on one side and setting equal to zero.
 
I already tried that, it did not work, you have to know the value of cos(x) in order to solve it that way
 
lol.

Can you solve this equation:
[tex] \frac{1}{z} - z = a[/tex]
with respect to z.
 
you have to multiply by "Z" and use quadratic formula?
 
  • #10
So, what's the solution?
 
  • #11
oh got it, haha thanks, it was easier than i thought
 
  • #12
good for you.
 

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