Simplifying Trig Equation for B w/ Alpha & Beta

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around simplifying a trigonometric equation involving variables B, α, and β, specifically transforming one equation into another while dealing with trigonometric functions and identities.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the possibility of simplifying the equation by substituting values and using trigonometric identities. There is a question regarding the necessity of introducing multiple variables, specifically whether α and β are equivalent or if this adds unnecessary complexity.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing suggestions for using double-angle identities and substitutions to simplify the equation. There is a recognition of a potential typo regarding the definitions of α and β, which has been clarified.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of the original equation and the relationships defined between α and β, with an emphasis on finding a way to eliminate trigonometric functions from the equation.

neutrino2063
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I need to somehow simplify:

\frac{1}{B^2}=\frac{1+\cos{2\alpha}}{2k_1}+\frac{\sin{2\alpha}}{2k_2}+\frac{\alpha}{k_2}

to:

B=\sqrt{\frac{2}{L}}\sqrt{\frac{\beta}{1+\beta}}

Where:

\alpha=\frac{L}{2}k_2 and \beta=\frac{L}{2}k_1

And \beta is also defined transcendentally:

\beta=\alpha\tan{\alpha}

Any ideas would be appreciated, I see no way of getting rid of the trig functions. I've tried looking for identities and even given it to mathematica; it seems to me I'm missing some sort of special trick.
 
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Is it a typo that alpha and beta are equal? It seems an unnecessary complication to add another variable if it's not needed. Otherwise I would just start substituting things into the right side of your first equation and see where that takes me.
 
Ah, it is... thanks, it's fixed now alpha should be (L/2)*k2
 
Now replaces cos(2 alpha) and sin(2 alpha) using the double-angle identities, and use your other two relationships to get rid of alpha to see if you can make the right side look like the left.
 

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