Simplifying a Trig Equation: Finding the Zeros

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    Simplifying Trig
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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the zeros of a trigonometric equation involving cosine and sine functions. The original poster indicates that this is part of a larger optimization problem and expresses difficulty in simplifying the equation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss using trigonometric identities and suggest converting terms to a single function. There is mention of applying the quadratic formula and checking interpretations of the equation due to potential typographical errors in the original problem statement.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered approaches to simplify the equation, while others are questioning the original formulation of the problem. There is no explicit consensus on the correct interpretation of the equation, indicating ongoing exploration of the topic.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding the notation used in the original problem, particularly the term "sin^(x)," which some participants find ambiguous. This has led to discussions about possible interpretations of the equation.

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Homework Statement


(this is really only part of my problem it's an optimization problem but this is where I'm stuck)
Find the zeros of: cos^2(x)-sin^(x)+cos(x)

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I've been trying to use trig identities such as sin^2 + cos^2 = 1 but it's not getting me anywhere I know the answer is pi/3 because our teacher told us but I can't seem to get it.
 
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I'd try to convert all the terms to cos(x), then set y = cos(x), then use the quadratic formula.
 
thanks I got 1/2 and -1 for the roots with that then set that equal to cos(x) to find the roots of the actual problem ?
 
Last edited:
is this your problem?

\cos^{2}{x}-\sin{x}+\cos{x}

you have sin^x ... idk how to interpret that
 
Or is it

\cos^{2}{x}-\sin^{2}{x}+\cos{x} ??
 

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