Trigonometry solutions Question

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion centers around solving the equation tan(x) = 2cos(x) + 1 within the interval 0 ≤ x ≤ 2π, specifically exploring various methods beyond graphical solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the possibility of using trigonometric identities and polynomial expressions to approach the problem. There are suggestions to substitute tan(x) with sin(x)/cos(x) and to express the equation as a polynomial in terms of cos(x). Some participants also mention the use of numerical methods like Newton's method for finding roots.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing various approaches and insights. Some have offered specific algebraic manipulations, while others have noted the complexity introduced by the equation. There is no clear consensus on a single method, but several productive avenues are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the challenge of solving a trigonometric equation that may exceed typical high school mathematics, and there is an acknowledgment of the need for a more advanced approach.

PhamCy
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Summary: https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/trigonometry-question.977263/

Here's the question.
Find the solutions of the equation tan(x)=2cos(x)+1 if 0 ≤ x ≤ 2π.
I know this question can be solved by observing the graph but is there any other ways (like algorithms OR some Trigonometry rules) to solve this, I couldn't figure that out.
Thank you for those who noticed my question.

[Moderator's note: Moved from a technical forum and thus no template.]
 
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Hello PhamCy, :welcome: !

Nice try, but PF asks a little more from you: make a start with the solution and we'll help you.

For example: substitute ##\tan x = {\sin x\over \cos x}## and see where it leads you
 
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BvU said:
see where it leads you
Way beyond what you can solve analytically with high school mathematics. WolframAlpha knows how to solve it analytically, here is one of the solutions:

equation.png
 
Oops, I 'missed' the +1 which makes things difficult o:)
 
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You could express the relationship as a polynomial in ##\cos\theta##, and then find the roots of the polynomial using something like Newton's method.
 
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Turn everything into \cos x to get:
<br /> 4\cos^{4}x+4\cos^{3}x+2\cos^{2}x-1=0<br />
From here solve it using whatever method you like. I would advise you plotting the polynomial first.
 
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