Solving Closest Values of x to Zero: Formula to Make it Easy

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter john425
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Problem solving
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the equation -30 sin(3x) = 1/10 cos(3x) to find the two values of x that are closest to zero. The user suggests transforming the equation into a tangent form, specifically tan(3x) = sin(3x)/cos(3x), to simplify the problem. By visualizing the relationship through a right triangle, where the hypotenuse is 1 and the sides are sin(3x) and cos(3x), the user emphasizes the geometric interpretation of the trigonometric functions involved. This approach provides a clearer pathway to solving for x.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric identities, particularly sine and cosine functions.
  • Familiarity with the tangent function and its geometric interpretation.
  • Basic knowledge of solving trigonometric equations.
  • Ability to visualize and manipulate right triangles in trigonometry.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for solving trigonometric equations involving multiple angles, such as sin(3x) and cos(3x).
  • Learn about the properties of tangent functions and their applications in solving equations.
  • Explore graphical methods for visualizing trigonometric functions and their intersections.
  • Study the derivation and applications of trigonometric identities in solving complex equations.
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, students studying trigonometry, and anyone interested in solving equations involving trigonometric functions.

john425
Messages
21
Reaction score
0
I am having trouble solving for the two values
of (x) that are closest to zero.

-30 sin 3x = 1/10 cos 3x

Is there a formula I could use to make this easy?
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
Write this as an equation in tan(3x)..
 
sin(x)/cos(x) = tan(x)

to see why this is true Draw a right triangle with hypotenuse 1 and an acute angle x, you can work the sides of the right triangle have lengths sin(x) and cos(x).
 
Oh yea! I just forgot!

Thank you!
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K