Trigonometric Equations: Solving 2 sin^2x - 4 cos^2x = 0 for x in [0°,360°]

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the trigonometric equation 2 sin²x - 4 cos²x = 0 for x in the interval [0°, 360°]. Participants express uncertainty about the methods for finding all possible solutions to this equation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to manipulate the equation by dividing by cos²(x) to express it in terms of tan²(x), but this approach does not yield the desired results. Some participants suggest reducing the expression using the identity sin²x + cos²x = 1 to simplify the equation.

Discussion Status

Participants are exploring different algebraic manipulations to solve the equation. While some guidance has been offered regarding substituting cos²(x) with 1 - sin²(x), there is still a lack of consensus on how to derive all solutions, particularly after finding cos²(x) = 1/3. The discussion reflects ongoing exploration of the problem.

Contextual Notes

There is a noted confusion regarding the number of solutions and the implications of taking square roots in the context of trigonometric equations. The original poster expresses a desire to understand the complete set of answers, indicating a focus on thoroughness in solving the problem.

disregardthat
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Homework Statement



Hi, I wonder how to solve, and how to get the correct answer\answers to these types of problems:

[tex]2 \sin^2{x} - 4 \cos^2{x} = 0[/tex] [tex]x \in [0°,360°][/tex]

There are many answers to this. I would really like to know how the correct way to get all of them.


Homework Equations



I do not know any relevant equations for this.


The Attempt at a Solution



I have tryed to divide them with [tex]\cos^2(x)[/tex] to get [tex]\tan^2(x)[/tex] But it has not worked.
 
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Well, firstly can you reduce the expression to contain only one of sinx or cosx by using the relationship sin2x+cos2x=1?
 
No, I do not know how to do it! :\
 
Then you need to learn algebra! Since sin2x+ cos2x= 1, cos2x= 1- sin2x. Now replace cos2x in your equation by 1- sin2 x.
 
Oh, I misunderstood. Of course...

I found this equation:

[tex]\cos^2(x) = \frac{1}{3}[/tex] But how do get all the answers? There are four.

If i square root bot sides, I will get two answers, (which are correct) but not all of them... How is the right way?
 
I just found out, I took the square root, and the answer must also be negative...
 

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