Solve Trig Identity with Cot 3u Problem

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a trigonometric identity problem involving cotangent, specifically cot(3u). Participants are seeking strategies to approach the proof or simplification of this identity.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss breaking down cot(3u) and consider using the relationship cot(3u) = 1/tan(3u). There are suggestions to utilize the triple angle formula for tangent and to express cotangent in terms of sine and cosine. Questions arise regarding the specific expression or problem statement that needs to be addressed.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring various methods to approach the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of trigonometric identities and formulas, but there is no explicit consensus on the best approach yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of having the complete problem statement to provide more targeted assistance. There is an indication that different interpretations of how to "break up" the function may exist.

geffman1
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hey guys just had a test, i got a trig proof prob with cot 3u, just wondering how u break it up. thanks
 
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Break it up into what?

the most I can tell you is that cot(3u)=1/tan(3u)

and one can use the triple angle formula for tan3u and get another equivalent expression.
 
I take it you know [itex]\cot u=\frac{\cos u}{\sin u}[/itex]. We could express this in a whole lot of ways. So you may want to give us the entire question or the expression you are working towards.
 
As rockl.freak667 and Cyosis said, there are many different ways to "break up" such a function? What, exactly, was the statement of the problem?

I think I would be inclined to write it as cot(3u)= cot(u+ 2u) and use "sum" formulas. That's because I don't happen to remember offhand the "triple angle formula" rock.freak667 mentioned!
 

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