Trigonometric Equation problem

AI Thread Summary
To solve for sin x given cos x = a/b and tan x = c/d, it's important to recognize the relationship between these trigonometric functions. The equation tan x = sin x / cos x can be rearranged to express sin x in terms of cos x and tan x. The correct formulation leads to sin x = cos x * tan x, which simplifies to sin x = (a/b)(c/d) = ac/bd. The confusion arises from misinterpreting the roles of the variables and the hypotenuse in the context of the problem. Understanding these relationships clarifies the solution and resolves the discrepancies in the answer choices.
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Homework Statement


If cos x = a/b and tan x = c/d; where a, b, c do not equal 0, then sin x is...

(a) bd/ac
(b) bc/ad
(c) ad/bc
(d) ad/bc


Homework Equations


tri5a.gif

trig_ident_6.gif



The Attempt at a Solution



The way I see it, if cos x = a/b, then b=hypotenuse.
if tan x = c/d, then d= hypotenuse (two hypotenuse values?) and c = opposite.

Therefore sin x = c/d. I don't know why the answers in the book use products of the vairables in their numerators and denominators.

Please help.

Much thanks in advance.
 
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Hmmm... Your c) and d) choices are the same..and the tan doesn't involve the hypotenuse.
Are you sure you copied the whole thing right?
 
Last edited:
Since
tan \alpha= \frac{sin \alpha}{cos \alpha}
multiplying on both sides by cos(\alpha) gives

sin(\alpha)= cos(\alpha)tan(\alpha)
That's all you need.
 

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