Relationship Between Trig Funtions and Bernoulli Numbers

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on proving the formula xcsc(x) = 2B(ix) - B(2ix), where B(x) is defined as B(x) = x/((e^x) - 1). The user initially struggles with algebraic manipulation involving the sine function expressed as sin(x) = (e^(ix) - e^(-ix))/(2i). The breakthrough occurs when the user realizes that applying the difference of squares to the denominator of B(2ix) simplifies the problem significantly. This insight leads to a successful resolution of the proof.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric functions, specifically sine and cosecant.
  • Familiarity with Bernoulli numbers and their definition.
  • Knowledge of complex numbers and their exponential forms.
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic expressions involving exponential functions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties and applications of Bernoulli numbers in number theory.
  • Learn about the relationship between trigonometric functions and complex exponentials.
  • Explore advanced algebraic techniques, including the difference of squares and factoring methods.
  • Investigate other proofs involving trigonometric identities and series expansions.
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Mathematics students, educators, and anyone interested in advanced algebraic techniques and the interplay between trigonometric functions and Bernoulli numbers.

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Homework Statement


Prove the formula xcscx=2B(ix)-B(2ix)

Homework Equations


B(x)=x/((ex)-1)

sinx= (eix-e-ix)/2i

The Attempt at a Solution



I know that it makes sense to use the formula for B(x) with x=ix and x=2ix, and rewrite xcsc(x) as x/sin(x), plugging the above relevant equation in for sine. Manipulating these equations should bring about equality, but for some reason I've hit a road block where I can't come up with more algebraic manipulation to get to the equality.

I have that xcsc(x)= (2ix)/(eix-e-ix)
but after expanding 2B(ix)-B(2ix) using the B(x) formulas, I'm having a difficult time figuring out how to reduce it correctly and I'm too stuck in the same methods to see it a different way.
Right now I have (2ix(e2ix-eix))/(e3ix-eix-e2ix+1)

Any help would be greatly appreciated because I'm too caught up in a method that clearly isn't working!

EDIT:I figured it out but I'm not sure how to delete the post so I'll leave it. If anyone else is having the same problem, the key is to use the difference of squares on the B(2ix) term denominator.
 
Last edited:
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hint factor two different ways

$$(e^{i x}-1)(e^{i x}+1)=(e^{2i x}-1)=e^{ix}(e^{i x}-e^{-i x})$$
 

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