Solving for x: 0<x<2pi When tan x/2 > -1

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the inequality tan(x/2) > -1 within the interval 0 ≤ x < 2π. Participants explore the implications of the tangent function and its periodicity in relation to the specified bounds.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants suggest setting tan(x/2) = -1 as a starting point for finding intervals. Others propose using a graphical approach to visualize the function's behavior across the interval. There are discussions about checking points in various intervals to determine where the inequality holds true.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, offering hints and alternative methods for approaching the solution. There is recognition of the importance of asymptotes and continuity in the analysis. Some participants have provided feedback on previous attempts, indicating a collaborative effort to refine understanding.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the periodic nature of the tangent function and the need to consider continuity, particularly around the point where tan(x/2) is undefined. Additionally, constraints related to the interval [0, 2π) are emphasized, affecting the interpretation of solutions.

dorkee
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Homework Statement


Given 0≤x<2pi, solve tan x/2 > -1

The Attempt at a Solution


I thought I would set tan x/2=-1 but I'm not sure.

Is the answer 0<x<pi, 3pi/2<x<2pi?
 
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Your answer doesn't look right to me.

Why not try a graphical approach? From 0 to 2pi there will be 4 periods, and it looks like there will be 4 intervals in your solution.

Oops! The period is 2pi, not pi/2. Yes, it seems your solution is right. Without a graph, I like your approach of solving the equality. Then plug in some test points on either side of each solution you get. Pay attention to asymptotes (x = pi in this case).
 
dorkee said:

Homework Statement


Given 0≤x<2pi, solve tan x/2 > -1



The Attempt at a Solution


I thought I would set tan x/2=-1 but I'm not sure.

Is the answer 0<x<pi, 3pi/2<x<2pi?
Yes, solving tan(x/2)= -1 is the way to start. On any interval NOT including a root of tan(x/2)= -1 and NOT including [itex]\pi[/itex], where tan(x/2) is not continuous, tan(x/2) is always less than -1 or always less than -1. Determine what those intervals are and check one point in each interval to see if tan(x/2), on that interval, is greater than -1.
 
I got one question.

What if I have cosx > -1 and 0≤x<2п ?

x Є (-п, п) or x Є (п,3п) оr x Є (п,п+2kп), k Є Z

But because of 0≤x<2п would x Є (0,п) or x Є (п,2п) or x Є ( kп, п(k+1) ) where k Є Z.

Am I right?
 
Your first answer is closer than your second answer. If you're restricted to [0, 2pi) then there's no need to mess with the k values.

Two hints: cos(0) = 1 and cos(pi) = -1
 
romolo said:
Your first answer is closer than your second answer. If you're restricted to [0, 2pi) then there's no need to mess with the k values.

Two hints: cos(0) = 1 and cos(pi) = -1

Yes, you're right. I don't want to mess with k values.

So my answer is (0,п) or (п,2п)

And what about cosx < -1 . As I know there isn't smallest value than -1 in cos. So is x Є empty set?

Thanks for the help.

Regards.
 
Yes, {x| cos(x)< -1} is the empty set.
 
Right. And remember that, for the original problem, zero is part of the solution. So your interval should start with a [ instead of a (
 

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