Rewrite the trigonometric expression as an algebraic equation

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on rewriting trigonometric expressions as algebraic equations, specifically addressing the confusion surrounding the notation and arguments of functions like arccos and arcsin. Participants emphasize the importance of clarity in mathematical writing, suggesting that substituting variables (e.g., letting B = some value) can aid in simplification, provided that the reasoning is transparent. The consensus is that while rewriting expressions for readability is acceptable, it must be done with proper notation and justification to avoid ambiguity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric functions, specifically arccos and arcsin
  • Familiarity with algebraic manipulation and substitution techniques
  • Knowledge of mathematical notation and conventions
  • Basic skills in solving trigonometric equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the proper use of trigonometric function notation and arguments
  • Learn techniques for simplifying trigonometric expressions
  • Explore common pitfalls in rewriting trigonometric equations
  • Study examples of clear mathematical writing in trigonometry
USEFUL FOR

Students studying precalculus, educators teaching trigonometry, and anyone looking to improve their mathematical communication skills.

Tyrion101
Messages
166
Reaction score
2
What is this asking for? Is it asking for the trig expression in the form of x and y? Or is it asking for something else?
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
Tyrion101 said:
What is this asking for? Is it asking for the trig expression in the form of x and y? Or is it asking for something else?
I don't see how it is possible to write an expression (trig or otherwise) as an equation. They are different kinds of things.

It would help if you told us what the problem is. If it is a homework problem, it needs to be posted in the Homework & Coursework sections (Precalc).
 
When I'm solving trig equations I will simply rewrite them in terms of x and y, so that they are easier to read, then plug back in the trig values when I'm done factoring and otherwise simplifying the problems. Is this a bad habit? I'm just confused as to if this is what it is talking about or if it is something else. Cos(arcos + arcsin) edit I used the wrong term. I meant expression for both, I'm tired and a bit ill.
 
Tyrion101 said:
When I'm solving trig equations I will simply rewrite them in terms of x and y, so that they are easier to read, then plug back in the trig values when I'm done factoring and otherwise simplifying the problems. Is this a bad habit?
No, this is good to do, as long as you are clear about what you are doing when you make the substitution, and then when you undo it. By that, I mean that you write something like "Let B = <whatever>..."
Tyrion101 said:
I'm just confused as to if this is what it is talking about or if it is something else. Cos(arcos + arcsin) edit I used the wrong term. I meant expression for both, I'm tired and a bit ill.
"Cos(arcos + arcsin)" is meaningless, though. arccos of what? arcsin of what? Each of these functions needs an argument; e.g., arccos(y) or arcsin(##\pi/2##).
 
Tyrion101 said:
When I'm solving trig equations I will simply rewrite them in terms of x and y, so that they are easier to read, then plug back in the trig values when I'm done factoring and otherwise simplifying the problems. Is this a bad habit? I'm just confused as to if this is what it is talking about or if it is something else. Cos(arcos + arcsin) edit I used the wrong term. I meant expression for both, I'm tired and a bit ill.
You must be clear about what you say both to yourself and to other people. This means you need to use conventional notation. You must have a justifiable reason for assigning sines and cosines to x or y, and not simply do this for convenience of writing steps.
 
Mark44 said:
No, this is good to do, as long as you are clear about what you are doing when you make the substitution, and then when you undo it. By that, I mean that you write something like "Let B = <whatever>..."

"Cos(arcos + arcsin)" is meaningless, though. arccos of what? arcsin of what? Each of these functions needs an argument; e.g., arccos(y) or arcsin(##\pi/2##).

Sorry, both arcos and sin have x's, I'm rather tired and sick at the moment. So anything left out just assume it wasn't on purpose.
 
Tyrion101 said:
Sorry, both arcos and sin have x's, I'm rather tired and sick at the moment. So anything left out just assume it wasn't on purpose.
Like I said, your writing needs to be clear both to yourself and to others who read your work. You wrote something which was incomplete, and the readers will often not know what exact interpretation to make.
 

Similar threads

Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
4K