Trigonometry Identity Question

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the trigonometric identity sin(180 - x) = sin x, with participants exploring both algebraic and geometric approaches to understand and prove this identity. The focus includes attempts to derive the identity and clarify the values of sine and cosine for various angles.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants attempt to derive the identity using the sine subtraction formula, but express uncertainty about the next steps.
  • There is a suggestion to visualize the problem using the XY axis, indicating a preference for geometric understanding.
  • Participants inquire about the values of sin 180° and cos 180°, indicating a need for foundational knowledge of trigonometric values.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of knowing sine and cosine values for common angles and suggests familiarity with the unit circle.
  • Another participant proposes using the relationship sin(90° - x) = cos(x) to aid in the derivation of the identity.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of familiarity with trigonometric values and methods for proving the identity. There is no consensus on a single approach to derive the identity, and multiple perspectives on understanding the underlying concepts are present.

Contextual Notes

Some participants indicate limitations in their knowledge of sine and cosine values beyond 90 degrees, which may affect their ability to engage with the problem fully. The discussion also reflects a dependency on foundational definitions and concepts in trigonometry.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students learning trigonometry, particularly those seeking to understand trigonometric identities and the values of sine and cosine for various angles.

askor
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Can someone please tell me how sin(180 - x) = sin x?

Here my attempt:

sin (180 - x) = sin 180 . cos x - cos 180 . sin x

Next? I have no idea...
 
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askor said:
Can someone please tell me how sin(180 - x) = sin x?

Here my attempt:

sin (180 - x) = sin 180 . cos x - cos 180 . sin x

Next? I have no idea...
I suggest that you draw the XY axis, draw show zero degrees, X degrees, and 180-X degrees. Or do you mean that you need to show it algebraically?
 
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phinds said:
I suggest that you draw the XY axis, draw show zero degrees, X degrees, and 180-X degrees. Or do you mean that you need to show it algebraically?

Yes, I need it algebraically.
 
askor said:
Yes, I need it algebraically.
What are ##\sin 180°## and ##\cos 180°##?
 
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fresh_42 said:
What are ##\sin 180°## and ##\cos 180°##?
:biggrin:
 
You should know the values of cosine for common angles. Specifically for the angles of 0, 30, 45,60,90,120,135, 150 and 180 degrees at least and their equivalents in radian measure otherwise you will never solve these kinds of problems.

Did you learn about the unit circle?

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unit_circle

Knowing that will answer your question.
 
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fresh_42 said:
What are ##\sin 180°## and ##\cos 180°##?

I only know the value of sin x and cos x in the range from 0 degree to 90 degree.

I don't know the value of sin x and cos x greater than 90 degree.
 
askor said:
I only know the value of sin x and cos x in the range from 0 degree to 90 degree.

I don't know the value of sin x and cos x greater than 90 degree.

Then find out. Look at my unit circle reference. In truth you should know them for 360 degrees and beyond as that in itself is also important to understand the periodicity of the functions.
 
Last edited:
Or calculate ##\sin (90°+90°)## by the formulas you already used.
 
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  • #10
Or.. you know (or ought to know) that sin(90°-x) = cos(x) when 0≤x≤90°. Use that fact and the fact that 180°-x = 90° + (90°-x) and use your formula on that.
 

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