Trigonometry in this calculus problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding points where the tangent to the function f(x) = 2 sin x + sin² x is horizontal. The derivative f'(x) = 2 cos x + 2 sin x cos x is set to zero, leading to the equations cos x = 0 and sin x = -1. The solutions for cos x = 0 are x = π/2 + nπ, while the book incorrectly states x = π/2 + 2nπ. The confusion arises from a miscalculation in the derivative, which should be f'(x) = 2 cos x + 4 sin x cos x.

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  • Understanding of trigonometric functions and their derivatives
  • Knowledge of calculus, specifically differentiation
  • Familiarity with the unit circle and periodic functions
  • Ability to solve trigonometric equations
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  • Review the differentiation of trigonometric functions
  • Study the implications of horizontal tangents in calculus
  • Learn about periodicity in trigonometric functions
  • Explore common mistakes in derivative calculations
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Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on trigonometric functions and their applications in finding horizontal tangents.

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Find all the points on the graph of the function f(x) = 2 \sin x + \sin^2 x at which the tangent is horizontal.
f'(x) = 2 \cos x + 2 \sin x \cos x = 0
2 \cos x (1 + \sin x) = 0
\cos x = 0 or \sin x = -1
x = \frac{\pi}{2} + n\pi or x = \frac{3\pi}{2} + 2n\pi
I then plug into find the y-coordinates. However, the book's answer for the cos x = 0 part is x = \frac{\pi}{2} + 2n\pi. But cos x = 0 for all x = \frac{\pi}{2} + n\pi... right? where did the 2 come from?
 
Last edited:
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f'(x) = 2\cos x + 4\sin x \cos x

2\cos x(1+2\sin x) = 0
 
Last edited:
oops. It's actually f(x) = 2 \sin x + \sin^2 x
 

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