Trig solve for x [ Attempt Included ]

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves solving the equation \(2\cos^2(2x) + 1 = 3\cos(2x)\) for \(x\) within the interval \([0, 2\pi)\). The context is trigonometric equations and their solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to solve the equation directly and questions the correctness of their solution. Some participants suggest using a substitution \(u = \cos(2x)\) to form a quadratic equation, while others explore the implications of negative square roots in their reasoning.

Discussion Status

There is an acknowledgment of multiple solutions to the equation, and participants are exploring different cases based on the quadratic formed. Some guidance has been offered regarding correcting an error in the original approach and considering the periodic nature of the trigonometric functions.

Contextual Notes

Participants are discussing the implications of periodicity in trigonometric functions and the need to find all possible solutions within the specified interval.

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Homework Statement


solve the following equation for x in the interval [0,2pi)
2Cos^2(2x) + 1 = 3Cos(2x)



Homework Equations



Cos(2x) = 2Cos^2 (x) - 1


The Attempt at a Solution



2Cos^2(2x) + 1 = 3Cos(2x)

2Cos(2x)Cos(2x) + 1 = 3Cos(2x)
2Cos(2x) + 1 = 3
2(2Cos^2 (x) - 1) - 2 =0
4Cos^2 (x) - 2 - 2 = 0
4cos^2 (x) = 4
Cos^2 (x) = 1
Cosx = 1

x = 0 is this right?
please correct me if i messed up thanks,
 
Last edited:
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That's one answer, but there are more. Try the substitution u=cos(2x). That will give you a quadratic, which will give you both of the answers you need.
 
Last edited:
2cos^2(2x) + 1 = 3 cos(2x)
2cos^2(2x) - 3cos(2x) + 1 = 0

let u = cos(2x)

2u^2 - 3u + 1 = 0
(2u - 1 )(u - 1) = 0

u = 1/2, 1

Case 1. Cos2x = 1/2
cos2x = 1/2
2cos^2x - 1 = 1/2
2cos^2x = 1/2 - 1
2cos^2x - = -1/2
cos^2x = -1/4
cosx = sqrt(-1/4)

but how can you sqrt negative? is this error ?


Case 2. Cos2x = 1
2Cos^2x - 1 = 1
2Cos^2x - 2 =0
2(Cos^2x - 1) = 0
Cos^2x = 1
Cosx = 1


Did i get it right ?
 
Last edited:
Case 2 is correct, but in case 1, you should have added 1 instead of subtracting it.

Case 1:
cos(2x)=1/2
2cos^2(2x)-1=1/2
2cos^2(2x)=1/2+1=3/2
Try it from here.

And you have to remember that the function is periodic, so there will be multiple solutions to each of those.
 
Last edited:

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