Using the Cosine Rule: When Do You Get 2 Answers?

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    Cosine Cosine rule
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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of the cosine rule in trigonometry, specifically addressing the conditions under which two solutions may arise. The original poster expresses uncertainty about the circumstances that lead to multiple answers when using this rule.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to recall the conditions under which the cosine rule yields two answers, suggesting a connection to the cosine graph. Some participants question whether this scenario is related to the ambiguous case, while others clarify that this is typically associated with the sine rule.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the confusion between the cosine and sine rules. There is acknowledgment of mistakes and attempts to clarify the concepts involved, but no consensus has been reached regarding the specific conditions for obtaining two answers with the cosine rule.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the potential for misunderstanding between the cosine and sine rules, indicating a need for clearer definitions or examples related to the ambiguous case.

thomas49th
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Hi, I recall that when you use the cosine rule you can sometimes come out with 2 answers (somthing to do with cos graph?). I can't qutie remeber and I've looked through my books and I can't find it. I can use the rule to calculate one side or angle, but when do you get 2 answers? Can someone please explain.

Thankyou
:)
 
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I think its called the "Ambiguous case". Not 100% sure though.
 
Thanks but I just checked and that's with sin rule :(
 
Oh ok, my mistake then. Guess it was worth a shot anyway :P
 
you're actually right, I made the mistake thinking it was with cosine! I accidently came across an webpage a few miutes ago when searching for some other maths stuff. It was a good guess

Cheerz
:-p
 

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