Solving 4sin3(x)=5sin(x) in [0,2╥)

  • Thread starter Thread starter MacLaddy
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves solving the equation 4sin³(x) = 5sin(x) within the interval [0, 2π). The discussion centers around trigonometric identities and the behavior of the sine function.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the factorization of the equation and the implications of setting sin(x) = 0. There is exploration of the equation 4sin²(x) - 5 = 0 and the resulting value of sin(x) = √5/2, which raises questions about the validity of this solution due to the range of the sine function.

Discussion Status

Some participants have noted that the solutions derived from sin(x) = √5/2 do not yield real solutions, as this value exceeds the possible range of the sine function. There is a recognition that only the solutions of 0 and π satisfy the original equation, although the term "extraneous" is debated in this context.

Contextual Notes

Participants are grappling with the constraints of the sine function's range, which limits possible solutions to the equation. The discussion reflects on the nature of roots produced during the solving process and their relevance to the original equation.

MacLaddy
Gold Member
Messages
290
Reaction score
11

Homework Statement



4sin3(x)=5sin(x)

In the interval [0,2╥)

Homework Equations



Lot's and lot's of trig identities.

The Attempt at a Solution



4sin3(x)=5sin(x)
4sin3(x)-5sin(x)=0
sinx(4sin2(x)-5)=0

Setting sin(x)=0 gives me the solutions of 0, and ╥, but trying the other part
4sin2(x)-5=0
sin2(x)=5/4
sin(x)=√5/2

This answer does not work at all for this solution, as my calculator just gives me constant errors when trying to find the inverse. I'm sure I'm going wrong somewhere on this.

Any help is appreciated.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
MacLaddy said:

The Attempt at a Solution



4sin3(x)=5sin(x)
4sin3(x)-5sin(x)=0
sinx(4sin2(x)-5)=0

Setting sin(x)=0 gives me the solutions of 0, and ╥, but trying the other part

This is correct.

MacLaddy said:
4sin2(x)-5=0
sin2(x)=5/4
sin(x)=√5/2

This answer does not work at all for this solution, as my calculator just gives me constant errors when trying to find the inverse. I'm sure I'm going wrong somewhere on this.

Any help is appreciated.

Right so you have something like

sin(x)= 1.(something)

If you look at the graph of y=sin(x), you will see that -1≤sin(x)≤1

so your equation of sin(x) = √5/2 will lead to no real solutions.
 
So if I understand you correctly, the other answers are extraneous, and only 0 and ╥ satisfy the equation?

Thank you for your help, I've been puzzling over this one for a couple of hours trying to figure that out.
 
I wouldn't use the term "extraneous" since that refers to roots of an equation produced while trying to solve an original equation, that do not satisfy that original equation.

Here, there simply are no real numbers satisfying [itex]sin^2(x)= 5/4[/itex] because sine is always between -1 and 1.

That's exactly the same situation as if you were trying to solve [itex]x^3+ x= 0[/itex]. [itex]x^3+ x= x(x^2+ 1)= 0[/itex] so either x= 0 or [itex]x^2= -1[/itex]. There is no real number satisfying the second equation.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
4K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
6K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K