Prove trig identity (cot x -1)/(cot x +1)=(1-sin 2x)/(cos 2x)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the trigonometric identity \((\cot x - 1)/(\cot x + 1) = (1 - \sin 2x)/(\cos 2x)\). Participants are engaged in mathematical reasoning and verification of steps involved in the proof.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Post 1 presents an initial attempt to manipulate the left side of the identity, leading to a fraction involving cosine and sine terms.
  • Post 2 reiterates the same steps as Post 1 but includes a correction regarding the numerator, suggesting it should be \(\cos^2(x) - 2\sin(x)\cos(x) + \sin^2(x)\).
  • Post 3 continues from the previous posts, confirming the manipulation leads to the correct form of the identity, expressing hope that the steps are valid.
  • Post 4 acknowledges the correctness of Post 3's conclusion with affirmation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is a general agreement on the steps taken to prove the identity, with a minor correction noted regarding the numerator in the earlier posts. However, the discussion does not explore any competing views or unresolved issues.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not address any missing assumptions or dependencies on definitions, nor does it highlight any unresolved mathematical steps.

Who May Find This Useful

Participants interested in trigonometric identities and mathematical proofs may find this discussion valuable.

karush
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$\begin{align*}
\frac{\cot {x}-1}{\cot{x}+1}&=\frac{1-\sin 2x}{\cos 2x}\\
\frac{\cos {x}-\sin x}{\cos{x}+\sin x}
\frac{\cos x-\sin x}{\cos x-\sin x}&= \\
\frac{\cos^2x-2\sin x\cos x+\cos^2 x}{\cos^2 x-\sin^2 x}
\end{align*}$

so far..
 
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karush said:
$\begin{align*}
\frac{\cot {x}-1}{\cot{x}+1}&=\frac{1-\sin 2x}{\cos 2x}\\
\frac{\cos {x}-\sin x}{\cos{x}+\sin x}
\frac{\cos x-\sin x}{\cos x-\sin x}&= \\
\frac{\cos^2x-2\sin x\cos x+\cos^2 x}{\cos^2 x-\sin^2 x}
\end{align*}$

so far..
Check your numerator. It should be [math]cos^2(x) - 2~sin(x)~cos(x) + sin^2(x)[/math].

Otherwise it's good. :)

-Dan
 
$\begin{align*}
\frac{\cot {x}-1}{\cot{x}+1}&=\frac{1-\sin 2x}{\cos 2x}\\
\frac{\cos {x}-\sin x}{\cos{x}+\sin x}
\frac{\cos x-\sin x}{\cos x-\sin x}&= \\
\frac{\cos^2x-2\sin x\cos x+\sin^2 x}
{\displaystyle cos^2x- sin^2x}=\\
\frac{1-\sin 2x}{\cos 2x}
\end{align*}$

hopefully
 
Yup, you got it. (Yes)

-Dan
 

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