Solving Trig/Algebra Questions: Finding the Missing Factor -√2/2

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The discussion centers on a user struggling to simplify a trigonometric expression to arrive at -√2 instead of -√2/2. The expression involves operations with cosine and sine values, leading to confusion about the missing factor. After some back-and-forth, the user realizes that rearranging the terms and multiplying by √2 helps clarify the simplification process. Ultimately, the correct simplification is confirmed as -√2. This exchange highlights the importance of careful manipulation of algebraic expressions in trigonometry.
majinkenji
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Hello, All,

I am unclear what my oversight is on this one -- supposed to be getting -√2 as the answer on these practice worksheets, however I keep getting -√2/2. Where is the factor? Thank you for your guidance

(cos^2 ∏) / (sin 5∏/4)

(-1)^2 / (-√2/2)

(1) * (-2/√2)

(-2/√2) * (√2/√2)

(-√2/2)

?

-mk
 
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In simplifying this, what is the final numerator: (-2/√2) * (√2/√2)
 
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majinkenji said:
(-2/√2) * (√2/√2)

Try re-arranging this as

-2/(√2 √2) * (√2)
 
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got it, thank you very much :)
 
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