Trigonometry question solving help

  • Thread starter Thread starter Rockefeller
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Trigonometry
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on transforming the expression √2 sin x - √2 cos x into the form k cos(x + ϕ) using the algebraic method. The user successfully calculated k as 2 and determined ϕ to be 5π/4, confirming the transformation as 2 cos(x + 5π/4). The solution is accurate, and the user seeks confirmation and potentially simpler methods for solving similar problems.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric identities and transformations
  • Familiarity with the algebraic method for trigonometric expressions
  • Knowledge of the unit circle and angle quadrants
  • Basic skills in solving equations involving sine and cosine functions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the auxiliary angle method in trigonometry
  • Learn about the unit circle and its application in solving trigonometric equations
  • Explore alternative methods for solving trigonometric expressions, such as graphical approaches
  • Review the properties of sine and cosine functions in different quadrants
USEFUL FOR

Students studying trigonometry, educators teaching algebraic methods in trigonometry, and anyone looking to enhance their problem-solving skills in trigonometric transformations.

Rockefeller
Messages
1
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Use the algebraic method to write √2 sin x - √2 cos x in the form
kcos(x + ϕ) where k>0, 0≤ ϕ ≤ 2π

Homework Equations



auxiliary form??

The Attempt at a Solution



my working out:

1st:

A= √2 B= -√2

K = √a^2 + b^2

= √(√2)^2 + (-√2)^2

= √2+2 = √4 = 2 therefore k = 2

2nd: find ϕ

let √2 sin - √2 cos x = k cos (x+ϕ )

= k [ cosx cosϕ - sinx sinϕ ]

therefore √2 sinx - √2 cosx = kcosx cosϕ -ksinx sinϕ

equate: sinx => √2 = - ksinϕ

sinϕ = - √2/k

therfore sinϕ = - √2/2 (k = 2)

cosx => -√2 = kcosϕ

cos ϕ = -√2/K

cos ϕ= -√2/√2

sinϕ = -√2/√2 < 0 therefore ϕ in 3rd quadrant

cosϕ = -√2/√2 < 0 therefore ϕ in 3rd quadrant

tan x = -1

x tan ^-1 (1) = 45

= 225. π/180

ϕ = 5π/4

therefore √2sinx--√2cosx = k cos(x+ϕ)

= √2sinx - √2cosx = 2cos (x + 5π/4)

therefore 2cos (x+ 5π/4)

is this correct??
and is there any easier way to show this or solve this ?? if so can u show me the full method

Thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
welcome!

looks good to me
 

Similar threads

Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Replies
6
Views
3K
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
3K
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K