Solving this set of trigonometric equations

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around solving a set of trigonometric equations to uniquely determine the angles δ and φ without quadrant ambiguity. The equations involve known quantities A, B, C, and D, and the challenge is to derive expressions for tan δ and tan φ while avoiding ambiguity in the quadrant determination.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a set of equations and seeks to find expressions for tan δ and tan φ, emphasizing the need for unique evaluation without quadrant ambiguity.
  • Another participant asks for clarification on what is meant by "quadratic ambiguity."
  • A different participant clarifies that they are referring to "quadrant ambiguity," explaining that the signs of the components in the tangent function determine the quadrant in which the angle lies.
  • Another participant suggests that quadrant ambiguity can be avoided through simple substitutions and the use of trigonometric equations, although specifics are not provided.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants have differing views on how to approach the problem of quadrant ambiguity, with some suggesting alternative methods while others express uncertainty about the feasibility of finding a unique solution for δ.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the ambiguity surrounding the evaluation of δ or δ/2, and it remains unclear whether the proposed methods will lead to a definitive solution.

Kallol
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I have the following set of equations from which I need to find δ and φ uniquely (i.e without quadrant ambiguity).
In other words I need to have expressions for tan δ and tan φ involving A,B,C and D which are known quantities.

A=1-sin(squared) δ/2 x sin 4φ
B=1+sin(squared) δ/2 x sin 4φ
C= [sin(squared) δ/2].[1+cos 4φ]
D=2-[sin(squared) δ/2].[1+cos 4φ]

From this I find that φ=(1/2) tan (inverse) [(B-A)/2C].
I cannot find a similar expression for δ or δ/2. I can find it as a cos(inverse) function, but the quadrant anomaly remains.
My question is, Is it at all possible to evaluate δ or δ/2 uniquely (without quadrant ambiguity) from the above set of equations? These are expressions I obtained for a birefringence measurement system involving phase δ and direction of birefringence φ which needs to be evaluated unambiguiously.

Will be thankful for any help.
 
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What is quadratic ambiguity?

Did you try D/C?
 
I mean quadrant ambiguity, i,e., if we have an expression of the form tan x =a/b, the signs of a and b determine
in which of the 4 quadrants the x lie.
 
You need not use quadrant ambiguity, you can do it by simple substitutions, and using trigonometric equations
 

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