What is the remainder when m+n is divided by 1000 in a trigonometric challenge?

In summary, the Trigonometric Challenge is a set of mathematical problems that test and improve one's understanding and application of trigonometric functions. It is open to anyone with knowledge of these functions, and can be used for educational purposes as well. The difficulty level of the problems can vary, but completing the challenge can help improve problem-solving skills and understanding of trigonometric concepts.
  • #1
anemone
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Let $x$ be a real number such that $\dfrac{\sin^4 x}{20}+\dfrac{\cos^4 x}{21}=\dfrac{1}{41}$. If the value of $\dfrac{\sin^6 x}{20^3}+\dfrac{\cos^6 x}{21^3}$ can be expressed as $\dfrac{m}{n}$ where $m$ and $n$ are relatively prime positive integers, find the remainder when $m+n$ is divided by 1000.
 
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  • #2
If $\dfrac{\sin^4x}{20} + \dfrac{\cos^4x}{21} = \dfrac1{41}$ then $$21*41\sin^4x + 20*41(1 - \sin^2x)^2 = 20*21,$$ $$41^2\sin^4x - 2*20*41\sin^2x + 20^2 = 0,$$ $$(41\sin^2x - 20)^2 = 0.$$ Therefore $\sin^2x = \dfrac{20}{41}$, $\cos^2x = \dfrac{21}{41}$ and $$\dfrac{\sin^6x}{20^3} + \dfrac{\cos^6x}{21^3} = \dfrac1{41^3} + \dfrac1{41^3} = \dfrac2{68921}.$$ So $m = 2$, $n = 68921$, $m+n = 68923$ and the remainder when $m+n$ is divided by $1000$ is $923$.
 
  • #3
Aww, very well done, Opalg! I have been trying to solve it for a number of times and for some reason, I didn't see the way to tackle it as you did! As always, thanks for your insightful solution!
 

1. What is the purpose of dividing m+n by 1000 in a trigonometric challenge?

The purpose of dividing m+n by 1000 in a trigonometric challenge is to find the remainder when the sum of two numbers, m and n, is divided by 1000. This is often used in trigonometric challenges to simplify the final answer and make it easier to compare with other solutions.

2. How is the remainder calculated when m+n is divided by 1000 in a trigonometric challenge?

The remainder is calculated by dividing the sum of m and n by 1000 and taking the remainder of that division. This can be done using a calculator or by hand using long division.

3. Can the remainder when m+n is divided by 1000 be a decimal number?

No, the remainder when m+n is divided by 1000 will always be a whole number. This is because the remainder is the leftover amount after dividing the sum of m and n by 1000, and whole numbers can only have whole number remainders.

4. What is the significance of finding the remainder when m+n is divided by 1000 in a trigonometric challenge?

The remainder when m+n is divided by 1000 is significant because it allows for a simpler and more concise solution to the trigonometric challenge. It also helps to compare solutions from different participants in the challenge.

5. Is there a specific method or formula for finding the remainder when m+n is divided by 1000 in a trigonometric challenge?

There is no specific method or formula for finding the remainder when m+n is divided by 1000 in a trigonometric challenge. It can be calculated using basic division and the remainder function, or by using a calculator.

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