Solve for y: Determining the Measure of Angle y

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving for angle y given the equation cos(5π/9) = sin(y). The correct interpretation leads to y being in the third or fourth quadrant due to the negative cosine value in the second quadrant. The proposed solutions include y = (5π/9) + (π/2) and y = (5π/9) + π, while the textbook incorrectly suggests y = (5π/9) - (π/2), which places y in the first quadrant. The resolution emphasizes the need for clarity in the problem statement regarding the sign of sin(y).

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zeion
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Homework Statement



Given cos(5pi/9) = siny
Determine the measure of angle y.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



5pi/9 is in the second quadrant therefore the cos measure of it is negative. We want to find a sin measure that is also negative. This happens in the third and fourth quadrants.

Then y is (5pi/9) + (pi/2) or (5pi/9) + pi.

The textbook answer gives y = (5pi/9) - (pi/2) which is in the first quadrant.
The question would need to be cos(5pi/9) = -siny for that to happen.
 
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hi zeion! :smile:

(have a pi: π :wink:)
zeion said:
Then y is (5pi/9) + (pi/2) or (5pi/9) + pi.

The textbook answer gives y = (5pi/9) - (pi/2) which is in the first quadrant.
The question would need to be cos(5pi/9) = -siny for that to happen.

that's right :smile:

maybe by "measure" they mean "magnitude" …
Determine the measure of angle y.

what exactly was that part of the question?
 

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