Rewrite the trigonometric expression as an algebraic equation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the interpretation of a request to rewrite a trigonometric expression as an algebraic equation. Participants explore the nature of the task, whether it involves expressing trigonometric functions in terms of variables like x and y, and the implications of such transformations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question whether the task is about rewriting a trigonometric expression in terms of x and y or if it entails something else entirely.
  • There is uncertainty regarding the feasibility of writing an expression as an equation, with some arguing that they are fundamentally different types of mathematical constructs.
  • One participant describes their practice of rewriting trigonometric equations in terms of x and y for clarity, expressing confusion about whether this aligns with the task at hand.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of clarity in notation and the necessity of providing arguments for the functions being used, particularly when substituting variables.
  • Concerns are raised about the meaninglessness of expressions like "Cos(arcos + arcsin)" without proper arguments for the functions involved.
  • Participants express that clear communication is essential, especially when making substitutions or transformations in mathematical expressions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the interpretation of the task. There are multiple competing views on how to approach the rewriting of the trigonometric expression, and the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants note limitations in clarity and completeness of expressions, as well as the need for proper notation and justification when substituting variables. There is an acknowledgment of the potential for misinterpretation due to incomplete statements.

Tyrion101
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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?
 
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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.
 

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