Proving the Trig Identity: (d/dx)(tan(x)/sec^2(x)) = cos(2x) | Homework Help

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on proving the trigonometric identity \(\frac{d}{dx} \frac{\tan(x)}{\sec^2(x)} = \cos(2x)\). The solution involves applying the quotient rule for differentiation, leading to the simplification of the expression to ultimately confirm that \(1 - 2\sin^2(x) = \cos(2x)\). Participants noted the importance of simplifying before differentiating and identified typographical errors in the original post. The final proof is validated through proper application of calculus rules.

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  • Understanding of calculus, specifically differentiation techniques.
  • Familiarity with trigonometric identities, particularly \(\cos(2x)\) and \(\tan(x)\).
  • Knowledge of the quotient rule for derivatives.
  • Basic proficiency in LaTeX for mathematical notation.
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  • Review the quotient rule for differentiation in calculus.
  • Study trigonometric identities, focusing on double angle formulas like \(\cos(2x)\).
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Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on trigonometric functions and differentiation techniques, as well as educators looking for examples of applying the quotient rule in proofs.

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Homework Statement


Prove that:
\frac{d}{dx} \frac{tan(x)}{sec^2(x)} = cos(2x)

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution



\frac{d}{dx} \frac{tan(x)}{sec^2(x)} = cos(2x)
\frac{d}{dx} \frac{tan(x)}{sec^2(x)} =
\frac{sec^2(x)(sec^2(x))-(tan(x)(2sec^2(x)tan^2(x)))}{(sec^2(x))^2}=
\frac{sec^4(x)}{sec^4(x)}-\frac{2sec^2(x)tan^2(x)}{sec^4(x)}=
1-\frac{2tan^2(x)}{sec^2(x)}=
\frac{cos(x)cos(x)}{cos^2(x)}-\frac{2sin^2(x)cos^2(x)}{cos^2(x)}=
1-2sin^2(x)(1)=
1-2sin^2(x) = cos(2x)
Is that right?
 
Last edited:
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Other than numerous typos (I assume they're typos), it looks okay.

It would have been easier if you simplified first and then differentiated.
 
I'm not seeing these typos, but I am horrible with latex so I don't doubt you. What should I correct?

I did it this way because it was for a problem that wanted me to find the derivative of the initial function using the quotient rule, and then as a part B it asked to prove that it was equal to cos2x. I just wrote it here as one big thing.
 
Where you first applied the quotient rule, check the parentheses and the exponents.
 
Oh yeah, that was a typo! (fixed it)

Thanks for your help.
 

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