Trigonometric proof using derivatives

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on proving the equation \(\frac{1}{2}\arctan\frac{2x}{1-x^{2}} + \text{arccot}x = \pi\) for all \(x < -1\). The user successfully calculated the derivatives of both sides, finding them equal to \(\frac{1}{x^{2}+1}\). However, the user realizes that equal derivatives do not imply the functions are equal without additional information, specifically a constant \(C\). The conversation emphasizes the need for a complete proof that addresses the constant and the conditions of the domain.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric functions, specifically arctangent and arccotangent.
  • Knowledge of calculus, particularly differentiation and the concept of derivatives.
  • Familiarity with the properties of functions and their domains.
  • Ability to manipulate and solve equations involving constants.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of inverse trigonometric functions, focusing on arctan and arccot.
  • Learn about the Mean Value Theorem and its implications for functions with equal derivatives.
  • Explore methods for determining constants in function equations, particularly in calculus.
  • Research the implications of function continuity and differentiability in proving equalities.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, particularly those tackling trigonometric proofs and derivatives, as well as educators looking for examples of function analysis and proof strategies.

Pole
Messages
8
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Prove that (for every x smaller than -1)
[itex]\displaystyle \frac{1}{2}arctan\frac{2x}{1-x^{2}}+arccotx=\pi[/itex]


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


So i split the formula into two parts:
[itex]\displaystyle \frac{1}{2}arctan\frac{2x}{1-x^{2}}[/itex] and [itex]\displaystyle \pi-arccotx[/itex]
Calculated their derivatives separately
And they are both equal to [itex]\displaystyle \frac{1}{x^{2}+1}[/itex]

And I'm wondering whether it's the end of the task or should I prove some other things, especially something connected to the main assumption of x<-1 or any other.

Thanks in advance!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
If [itex]f^\prime=g^\prime[/itex], then this doesn't mean f=g necessarily. But it does mean that f=g+C with C a real constant/

Note that the above only holds if the domain of f and g is an interval.
 
micromass said:
If [itex]f^\prime=g^\prime[/itex], then this doesn't mean f=g necessarily. But it does mean that f=g+C with C a real constant/

Note that the above only holds if the domain of f and g is an interval.

Thank You, now I know that it isn't sufficient.
But I can't really come up with a complete solution.
What should I add ? So that the task would be marked well
How to calculate the value of that constant?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
4K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 47 ·
2
Replies
47
Views
7K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
5K
Replies
17
Views
3K