Trigonometric Function Homework: Solving sin^2 (x - pi/4) = 1

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the trigonometric equation sin²(x - π/4) = 1. The key insight is recognizing that the square root of 1 yields two cases: sin(x - π/4) = 1 and sin(x - π/4) = -1. By isolating sin(x - π/4) and applying the arcsin function, the solutions for x can be derived from both cases. The final step involves combining all solutions to present a complete answer.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric functions, specifically sine.
  • Familiarity with the properties of squares and square roots.
  • Knowledge of the arcsin function and its application in solving equations.
  • Basic skills in manipulating algebraic expressions involving angles.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the unit circle to understand the values of sine at key angles.
  • Learn how to solve trigonometric equations involving squares, such as sin²(x) = k.
  • Explore the periodic nature of sine functions to find all solutions within a given interval.
  • Practice solving similar trigonometric equations to reinforce understanding.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying trigonometry, particularly those tackling homework involving trigonometric equations, and educators looking for examples to illustrate solving techniques.

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Homework Statement


Pardon me first of all for any mistakes, I study in a French school so I might use incorrect terms

I have to find the solutions for the following formula:

sin^2 ( x - pi/4 ) = 1


Homework Equations


None?


The Attempt at a Solution


I've mostly only worked with regular sins, not those that are to the power of n..

most of the time i'd isolate everything then do arcsin(...) and so on but I am not sure what to do exactly here.
 
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You have something being squared to produce 1. That means the thing being squared is either 1 or -1. This gives you two equations involving sin(x - pi/4). Find solutions for each one.
 
if you take the square root of both sides, on the left side you will get sin(x- pi/4)

and +/- 1 on the right side. Take each case and find x, then combine all of the answers.
 

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