Proof of difference identities for cosine

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on deriving the difference identities for cosine using a specific diagram provided by the user. It suggests leveraging the relationship between sine and cosine, specifically that sin(x) can be expressed as cos(pi/2 - x), to facilitate the derivation. Additionally, for tangent, the approach involves expanding and simplifying the expression sin(a+b)/cos(a+b). The conversation emphasizes using these relationships to prove the identities effectively. Overall, the thread aims to clarify the process of deriving trigonometric identities through geometric representation.
PatternSeeker
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Hi,

I am working on proofs of the difference identities for sine, cosine, and tangent.
I am hoping to solve these using a specific diagram (attached).

I was wondering if you could help me with the difference of cosines. Is it possible to derive it using the attached diagram? If so, how could I go about this?

Details and a relevant diagram are attached.

Thanks
 

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  • DifferenceOfCosinesProof.jpg
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Hey PatternSeeker.

If you know the difference between the sines, you can use the fact that sin(x) = cos(pi/2 - x) and then get the identities for difference or sum or cosine terms instead of sine terms.

With the tangent, will need to expand and simplify out sin(a+b)/cos(a+b).
 
Thank you chiro!
 
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