Trigonometry: arctan equation?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving the equation π/4 = arctan(x + arctan(x + ...)). Participants explore the use of inverse tangent functions and the tangent addition rule to simplify the equation. The solution is derived as x = 1 - π/4, demonstrating the importance of recognizing patterns in infinite nested functions. The conversation highlights the challenges of understanding arctan expressions and the collaborative effort to clarify the solution process.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of inverse trigonometric functions, specifically arctan
  • Familiarity with tangent addition formulas
  • Basic knowledge of solving quadratic equations
  • Concept of infinite nested functions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of inverse trigonometric functions, focusing on arctan
  • Learn about the tangent addition formula and its applications
  • Explore methods for solving infinite nested equations
  • Practice solving quadratic equations and their applications in trigonometry
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Students of mathematics, particularly those studying trigonometry and calculus, as well as educators looking for collaborative problem-solving techniques in advanced math topics.

XYZ313
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Can someone please let me know how to find x in

π/4=arctan(x+arctan(x+...)) ?
 
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Let me do a similar one:

Let x=\sqrt{2+\sqrt{2+\sqrt{2+...}}}. Then x^2-2=x.
Solving the quadratic equation gives us the answer.

Can you do your problem now along similar lines??
 
micromass: isn't it the use of inverse operator (tan in this case)?
like z=arctan(x+arctan(x+...)) and make the use of tanz?

and then use tan addition rule? I am really confused...

Can you explain further please?
 
π/4=arctan(x+arctan(x+...))
take tan of both sides
tan(π/4)=tan(arctan(x+arctan(x+...)) )
 
lurflurf: and then what?

tan(π/4) = x + arctan(x+arctan(x+...)) ?
 
what is tan(tanx)? Is above equation some kind of sum of geometric progress?
 
is it so easy that no one is going even to comment?
 
tan(π/4)=tan(arctan(x+arctan(x+...)) )
1=x+arctan(x+arctan(x+...))
 
lurflurf: thank you, this is obvious and not the solution

then

tan(1-x) = x + arctan(x+arctan(x+...))

and where it is leading?
 
  • #10
arctan(x+arctan(x+...)) ?
 
  • #11
if I knew what "arctan(x+arctan(x+...))" equals to, I wouldn't be posting this thread...
 
  • #12
XYZ313 said:
if I knew what "arctan(x+arctan(x+...))" equals to, I wouldn't be posting this thread...

What? You said what this equals in your first post. It's x that is the unknown.
 
  • #13
spamiam: right, sorry, I'm really dumb

x = 1 - π/4

Thank you all for bearing with me...
 
  • #14
This is dumbest question I have ever asked. Hope this is never going to happen again...
 
  • #15
You're not dumb--this question is difficult until you see the trick to use.
 

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