Trigonometric Equation: Solving tan(\alpha)=\sqrt{2}-1 for \alpha in ]0,90°[

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the trigonometric equation tan(α) = √2 - 1 for α in the interval ]0, 90°[. Participants are exploring the implications of this equation and the methods to derive the value of α.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of the double angle formula for tangent, tan(2α) = (2tanα)/(1 - tan²α), and how it relates to the original equation. There are attempts to manipulate the equation into recognizable forms, with some questioning the correctness of derived values.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided hints and suggestions for rewriting the equation to facilitate solving for α. There is an ongoing exploration of the implications of these manipulations, with no explicit consensus reached on the final approach or solution.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of correctly interpreting the equation and the constraints of the interval for α. There are indications of confusion regarding the steps taken to arrive at certain values, which may affect the overall understanding of the problem.

mtayab1994
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Homework Statement


[tex]tan(\alpha)=\sqrt{2}-1[/tex] for every alpha in ]0,90°[

Homework Equations



1-count tan(2α)

2-conclude the value of α

The Attempt at a Solution



1-after using tan(2α)=(2tanα)/1-tan^2α) i got tan(2α)=(√2-1)/2

2- I know that α is pi/8 but i just don't know how to conclude it.
 
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mtayab1994 said:

Homework Statement


[tex]tan(\alpha)=\sqrt{2}-1[/tex] for every alpha in ]0,90°[

Homework Equations



1-count tan(2α)

2-conclude the value of α

The Attempt at a Solution



1-after using tan(2α)=(2tanα)/1-tan^2α) i got tan(2α)=(√2-1)/2

2- I know that α is pi/8 but i just don't know how to conclude it.

Write that as$$\frac {\sqrt 2 - 1}{1}$$Then divide the numerator and denominator by ##\sqrt 2## and see if you recognize the result in form$$
\frac{1-\cos\theta}{\sin\theta}$$ for some ##\theta##, and see if that formula rings any bells.
 
mtayab1994 said:

Homework Statement


[tex]tan(\alpha)=\sqrt{2}-1[/tex] for every alpha in ]0,90°[
The above should say, "for alpha in ]0,90°[".
mtayab1994 said:

Homework Equations



1-count tan(2α)

2-conclude the value of α

The Attempt at a Solution



1-after using tan(2α)=(2tanα)/1-tan^2α) i got tan(2α)=(√2-1)/2
Your value for tan(2α) is incorrect. Show us how you got that value, and we'll help you get the right value.
mtayab1994 said:
2- I know that α is pi/8 but i just don't know how to conclude it.
 
LCKurtz said:
Write that as$$\frac {\sqrt 2 - 1}{1}$$Then divide the numerator and denominator by ##\sqrt 2## and see if you recognize the result in form$$
\frac{1-\cos\theta}{\sin\theta}$$ for some ##\theta##, and see if that formula rings any bells.

if i write it like you said and i keep solving, it just brings me back to tanα=√2-1
 
LCKurtz said:
Write that as$$\frac {\sqrt 2 - 1}{1}$$Then divide the numerator and denominator by ##\sqrt 2## and see if you recognize the result in form$$
\frac{1-\cos\theta}{\sin\theta}$$ for some ##\theta##, and see if that formula rings any bells.

mtayab1994 said:
if i write it like you said and i keep solving, it just brings me back to tanα=√2-1

Show me what you did when you wrote it that way. What ##\theta## works?
 
It's much simpler if you follow their hint.
mtayab1994 said:
1-count tan(2α)
I assume this means compute tan(2α). If you do this, you get a very simple value for tan(2α), which you can use to find α.
 
yea i solved it tan(2α)=1 and to conclude the value of α i did tan(2σ)=tanpi/4+2kpi and i just solve it out and i get α=pi/8
 

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