Why are the functions y= cos x and y = sin(x+90) considered the same function?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the equivalence of the functions y = cos x and y = sin(x + 90), as well as the Pythagorean identities in trigonometry. Participants are exploring the underlying concepts of trigonometric functions and their relationships, particularly in the context of the unit circle and right triangles.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants discuss the idea that the cosine function represents a phase shift of the sine function by 90 degrees, while others seek to clarify this relationship through geometric interpretations, such as right triangles and the unit circle. Questions about how to articulate these concepts and the connection to Pythagorean identities are also raised.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants offering various perspectives on the equivalence of the functions and the Pythagorean identities. Some guidance has been provided regarding the use of geometric representations and trigonometric identities, but there is no explicit consensus on the explanations yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are encouraged to provide detailed explanations and may be constrained by homework guidelines that require thorough understanding without direct solutions. There is an emphasis on exploring definitions and relationships rather than simply stating results.

Buddah
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1. Explain why the functions y= cos x and y = sin(x+90) are the same function. Explanation must be detailed include graphs if you wish.

2. Outline why the identities are referred to as Pythagorean identities:
sin²θ + cos²θ = 1

1 + tan²θ = sec²θ

1 + cot²θ = csc ²θ




HELP PLEASEEEE! thanks in advance
 
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What have you done so far?
 
I figured out the first one, i now its the same because the cos functions is just a shift by 90degrees but i don't know how to explain it.

and am lost for number 2 :(
 
2. cosine and sine are the x and y-coordinates in the unit circle. At an angle v you can form a triangle with hypothenuse 1 and catheti x and y.
 
Rewrite the second function y=sin(x+90) using the double angle formula
<br /> sin (\alpha + \beta) = sin {\alpha}cos {\beta} + cos {\alpha}sin {\beta}<br />
Then the answer to part one of your question should become apparent.
 
For part 2, what is the Pythagorean Theorem? Can you write it in terms of sine and cosine?
 
For part 2, think of a right angled triangle with hypotenuse length R say and then write down pythagoras' thoeren and the definition of sin and cos and the answer should become apparent.
 
For the first I would also recommend you draw a right triangle. sin is "opposite side over hypotenuse" and cosine is "near side over hypotenuse". Which side is "opposite" or "near" depends on which angle of the triangle you are using. And what is the relationship between angles in a right triangle?
 
cos(x) is the x- coordinate
sin(x) is the y- coordinate

Now relate this to the Pythagorean Theorem:cool:
 
  • #10
More to the point, for a circle of radius r, the cosine of a point on that circle is the x-coordinate over r, or x/r. The sine of a point on that circle is the y-coordinate over r, or y/r.

Now, knowing this, and the fact that sin2(z) + cos2(z) = 1, can you show the Pythagorean theorem?
 

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