Trig factor formula proof help.

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the derivation of the trigonometric identity involving the sum of sines, specifically the formula sinP + sinQ = 2sin(P+Q)/2 cos(P-Q)/2. Participants are examining the steps involved in using the sine addition formulas to arrive at this result.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to understand how to manipulate the sine addition formulas and relate them to the variables P and Q. There are questions about the derivation of the fractions in the context of the formulas.

Discussion Status

Some participants are providing insights into the relationships between the variables A, B, P, and Q, and how to derive A and B from the equations. There is a recognition of the steps involved, but some confusion remains regarding the transitions between the equations.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of a textbook example and are focused on understanding the derivation process without additional external resources. The discussion reflects a collaborative effort to clarify mathematical reasoning related to trigonometric identities.

tweety1234
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Homework Statement



I don't understand the example in my book,

it says; use the formula for sin(A+B) and sin(A-B) to derive the result that;

sinP + sinQ = 2sin\frac{P+Q}{2} cos\frac{P-Q}{2}

sin(A+B) = sinAcosB + cosAcosB

sin(A-B) = sinAcosB-cosAsinB

Add the two intenties to get;

sin(A+B) + sin(A-B) 2sinAcosB

let A+B = P and A-B=Q

then A = \frac{p+q}{2} and B = \frac{P-Q}{2}

This is the bit I don't get, How did they get this bit ^^. I understand that the LHS becomes sinP+sinQ but don't understand how they got the fraction?

sinP + sinQ = 2sin\frac{P+Q}{2} cos\frac{P-Q}{2}
 
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Hi tweety1234! :smile:

I'm not sure what you're not getting …

you have sin(A+B) + sin(A-B) = 2sinAcosB,

and sinAcosB = sin((P+Q)/2)cos((P-Q)/2)
 
tweety1234 said:
let A+B = P and A-B=Q

then A = \frac{p+q}{2} and B = \frac{P-Q}{2}

This is the bit I don't get, How did they get this bit ^^. I understand that the LHS becomes sinP+sinQ but don't understand how they got the fraction?

Add the equations A+B = P and A-B=Q, giving 2A = P+Q

A = (P+Q)/2.

Now subtract those two equations instead of adding them to get B.
 
tiny-tim said:
Hi tweety1234! :smile:

I'm not sure what you're not getting …

you have sin(A+B) + sin(A-B) = 2sinAcosB,

and sinAcosB = sin((P+Q)/2)cos((P-Q)/2)

I don't get how they got P+Q and P-Q ?
 
LCKurtz said:
Add the equations A+B = P and A-B=Q, giving 2A = P+Q

A = (P+Q)/2.

Now subtract those two equations instead of adding them to get B.

Oh I get it now.

Thanks.

so it would be, A+B=P -A-B =Q

2B=p-q
 

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