Understanding Hyperbolic Functions: A Worked Example from Definitions

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The discussion focuses on understanding the hyperbolic function equation Cosh u = (2sinh u) - 1. A participant struggles with a specific step in the example where all variables are made positive. They express confusion over plugging in values for u, which leads to unequal equations. Another contributor clarifies that the equation is not valid for all u values and suggests multiplying the second equation by e^u to find the correct values. The conversation emphasizes the importance of identifying specific solutions for the hyperbolic functions involved.
Firepanda
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Cosh u = (2sinh u) -1

Working from definitions

http://img118.imageshack.us/img118/3271/eusm4.png

Its a worked example from the book, which isn't very well explained. The only step i struggle on is from how the managed to get all the u's positive (step 2). I plugged some numbers in for u and find the two equations don't equal each other anyway. What am i doing wrong?

thx
 
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Firepanda said:
Cosh u = (2sinh u) -1

The only step i struggle on is from how the managed to get all the u's positive (step 2).

What happens when you multiply the second equation in your linked image by e^u?

I plugged some numbers in for u and find the two equations don't equal each other anyway. What am i doing wrong?

Right, this equation isn't satisfied by all values of u. You are supposed to find the values of u for which it is satisfied.
 
George Jones said:
What happens when you multiply the second equation in your linked image by e^u?



Right, this equation isn't satisfied by all values of u. You are supposed to find the values of u for which it is satisfied.

gotcha thx!
 

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