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    Trigonometric
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the simplification of expressions involving inverse trigonometric functions, specifically focusing on expressions like cos(sin-1(x)), sin(cos-1(x)), and others. Participants explore various methods and relationships to reduce these expressions, engaging in both theoretical and mathematical reasoning.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks about methods to simplify expressions involving inverse trigonometric functions, indicating a desire for clarity on these relationships.
  • Another participant provides a hint that sin(sin-1(x)) simplifies to x and introduces a relationship involving cosine.
  • A third participant mentions a specific relation, ArcSin((1-x^2)^0.5) = ArcCos(x), suggesting a potential pathway for simplification.
  • A later reply elaborates on the simplification of cos(sin-1(x)) by constructing a right triangle and using the definition of sine to find the corresponding cosine value.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present various methods and relationships for simplification, but there is no consensus on a single approach or resolution to the question posed.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the definitions and properties of inverse trigonometric functions are implicit in the discussion. The exploration of these relationships may depend on the context in which they are applied.

Astudious
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Is there any way I can reduce or simplify expressions like cos(sin-1(x)), sin(cos-1(x)), cos(tan-1(x)), tan(cot-1(x)) etc.? (I refer to the arc functions, i.e. inverses, by the superscript -1, not the reciprocals)
 
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Hint: sin(sin-1(x)) = x and cos(w) = sin(w+π/2).
 
You can use this relation:
ArcSin((1-x^2)^0.5)=ArcCos(x)
 
Astudious said:
Is there any way I can reduce or simplify expressions like cos(sin-1(x))

Draw a right triangle with an angle [itex]\theta[/itex], opposite side length of x and hypotenuse length 1. Now from this triangle, by definition,

[tex]\sin\theta = x[/tex]
hence
[tex]\theta = \sin^{-1}x[/tex]

So then what is [itex]\cos\left(\sin^{-1}x\right)[/itex], or more simply, [itex]\cos\theta[/itex] ?
 
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