Trig Quadrant Question: Solving for secx=-5.2, 0≤x≤2π

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving the equation sec(x) = -5.2 within the interval 0 ≤ x ≤ 2π. The correct solution is x = 1.76, as the cosine function is negative in the second quadrant. The confusion arises from the expectation of two solutions, which is clarified by noting that the second solution lies in the third quadrant, where cosine is also negative. Additionally, the evaluation of cot(4.47) reveals a common mistake in using tan(1/4.47) instead of the correct formula cot(4.47) = 1/tan(4.47).

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Solve: secx=-5.2, 0≤x≤2π

I'm getting 2 answers:
1.76, 4.52

The answer key is telling me there is only one
1.76

How do I only get 1 answer from this?

Thanks,
 
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Evaluate: cot4.47

I'm getting .23 when i plug in: tan(1/4.47)

but the answer key says .25
am I doing something wrong?

thanks
 
1. \sec x = -5.2, \; 0\leq x\leq 2\pi

\frac{1}{\cos x} = - 5.2

\cos x = -\frac{1}{5.2} =

\arccos(\cos x) = 1.76

x = 1.762. \cot 4.47 = \frac{1}{\tan 4.47} not \tan(\frac{1}{4.47})
 
thanks, I see what I did wrong for #2

but, why doesn't #1 have 2 answers?
 
Because the second answer is in quadrant 4, where cos is positive.
 
No, it's in the 3rd quadrant. There should be 2 solutions.
 
Yes, there should be 2 answers. Cheers. :)
 
Alright
Thanks everyone
 

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