Trigonometric functions (identity&equations)

In summary, to find the value of cosx/(1 - 5 sin x) without evaluating x, we can use the relevant equations and the given equation cos^2x/(1 + 5sin^2x) = 8/35. By combining the equations sin^2x + cos^2x = 1 and 35cos^2x = 8 + 40sin^2x, we can solve for cosx/(1 - 5 sin x) and find its value to be -1/5.
  • #1
wei1006
6
0
1) Problem: given that x is an obtuse angle for which cos^2x/(1 + 5sin^2x) = 8/35, find the value of cosx/(1 - 5 sin x) without evaluating x.

2) Relevent equations:
sin(-x) = - sin x
cos(-x) = cos x
sin(180° - x) = sin x
cos(180° - x) = - cos x
sin^2x + cos^2x = 1

3) Attempt:
cos^2x/(1 + 5sin^2x) = 8/35
35cos^2x = 8 + 40sin^2x

Actually I am clueless on how to tackle this problem, as in what should I be even doing to get to the answer.

Please help, thank you!
 
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  • #2
Try combining the last of your 'relevant equations' with the last equation in your attempt.
 

1. What are the basic trigonometric functions and their definitions?

The basic trigonometric functions are sine, cosine, tangent, cotangent, secant, and cosecant. They are defined as follows:
- Sine (sin): the ratio of the opposite side to the hypotenuse in a right triangle
- Cosine (cos): the ratio of the adjacent side to the hypotenuse in a right triangle
- Tangent (tan): the ratio of the opposite side to the adjacent side in a right triangle
- Cotangent (cot): the reciprocal of tangent, i.e. the ratio of the adjacent side to the opposite side in a right triangle
- Secant (sec): the reciprocal of cosine, i.e. the ratio of the hypotenuse to the adjacent side in a right triangle
- Cosecant (csc): the reciprocal of sine, i.e. the ratio of the hypotenuse to the opposite side in a right triangle

2. What are trigonometric identities and why are they important?

Trigonometric identities are equations that are true for all possible values of the variables involved. They are important because they allow us to simplify complex expressions, solve equations, and manipulate trigonometric functions in various ways. They also help us to establish relationships between different trigonometric functions and to prove other mathematical theorems.

3. How do you solve trigonometric equations?

To solve a trigonometric equation, you need to isolate the trigonometric function on one side of the equation and all other terms on the other side. Then, you can use algebraic techniques and trigonometric identities to simplify the equation and solve for the unknown variable. It is important to pay attention to the domain of the equation and check for extraneous solutions, which may occur due to the periodic nature of trigonometric functions.

4. What is the unit circle and how is it related to trigonometric functions?

The unit circle is a circle with a radius of 1, centered at the origin of a coordinate plane. It is used to define the values of trigonometric functions for any angle in the coordinate plane. The sine and cosine of an angle are the coordinates of the point where the terminal side of the angle intersects the unit circle, while the tangent is the slope of the line passing through the origin and that point. The unit circle also helps us to understand and visualize the periodic nature of trigonometric functions.

5. How are trigonometric functions used in real-world applications?

Trigonometric functions are used in various fields, including engineering, physics, and astronomy, to model and solve real-world problems involving angles and distances. For example, they are used in navigation and surveying to determine the coordinates and distances between points on the Earth's surface. They are also used in sound and wave analysis, such as in music and earthquake studies. Additionally, trigonometric functions are used in computer graphics and animation to create realistic images and movements.

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