Solving 9.8*Sin(theta)=7.056*Cos(theta)

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SUMMARY

The equation 9.8 * Sin(theta) = 7.056 * Cos(theta) can be solved using the tangent function. The correct approach involves rearranging the equation to tan(theta) = 7.056 / 9.8, leading to theta = inverse tangent(7.056 / 9.8). The solution yields theta = 36 degrees, but it is essential to recognize the periodic nature of the tangent function, which states that tan(x) = tan(x + π). Thus, additional solutions exist at intervals of π.

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Could someone remind me the proper way to solve this equation. I cannot recall how.

9.8 * Sin (theta) = 7.056 * Cos (theta)

Plugging number in and working backwads I got the answer theta=36 which is correct as far as I can tell.
 
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7.056/9.8 = tan (theta)
theta = inverse tangent of (7.056/9.8)
 
CaptainJames said:
7.056/9.8 = tan (theta)
theta = inverse tangent of (7.056/9.8)
We don't give COMPLETE SOLUTION here, in Physics Forums.
However, that's not completely correct, yet. One should also note that:
[tex]\tan x = \tan (x + \pi)[/tex] tangent function is periodic with period [tex]\pi[/tex].
 

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