Trigonometry sin and cos question

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter _Andreas
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Cos Sin Trigonometry
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the derivation of the expression C sin(k x) + D cos(k x) = F sin(k x + gamma), focusing on the relationship between coefficients C, D, and the phase angle gamma. The scope includes mathematical reasoning and trigonometric identities.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks how to derive the expression on the right from the left, indicating a need for clarification on the relationship between C, D, and gamma.
  • Another participant suggests expanding the right-hand side and equating terms, implying that specific values for C and D can be determined through this process.
  • A later reply notes that the course book provides the answer, indicating a shift in focus from seeking help to acknowledging a source of information.
  • One participant introduces a relevant trigonometric identity, \sin (A+B) = \sin A \cos B + \sin B \cos A, which may aid in the derivation process.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus, as one individual finds the answer in their course book, while others are still engaged in the derivation process.

Contextual Notes

There is an implicit assumption that C and D are non-zero, and the discussion relies on the application of trigonometric identities without resolving the specific values of C, D, or F.

_Andreas
Messages
141
Reaction score
1
My teacher told me that

C sin(k x) + D cos(k x) = F sin(k x+gamma)

if neither C nor D is 0 (gamma is a phase angle). How do you derive the expression on the right of the equal sign from that on the left?
 
Last edited:
Mathematics news on Phys.org
While normally one would say C and D assume certain values, I'll let you find what those values are. Expand the expression on the right and equate the terms on both sides.
 
neutrino said:
While normally one would say C and D assume certain values, I'll let you find what those values are. Expand the expression on the right and equate the terms on both sides.

Actually, I just found out that my course book provides the answer to my question. :blushing: Sorry for bothering! But thanks anyway.

So, note to self: always look in your books before posting questions here.
 
The relevant trig identity is [tex]\sin (A+B) = \sin A \cos B + \sin B \cos A[/tex].
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
7K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K