Why did you need to ask? How to calculate cos^4(10)?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the calculation of cos^4(10) in radians, clarifying that cos^4(10) is equivalent to (cos(10))^4, which evaluates to approximately 0.4957. A common misconception is addressed, where some users confuse cos^4(10) with cos(10^4), which yields a different result of approximately -0.9522. The key takeaway is the importance of understanding the notation used in trigonometric functions to avoid calculation errors.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric functions and their notation
  • Familiarity with radians as a unit of angular measurement
  • Basic calculator operations for trigonometric calculations
  • Knowledge of exponentiation in mathematical expressions
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to use scientific calculators for trigonometric functions
  • Study the properties of cosine functions and their transformations
  • Explore the differences between radians and degrees in trigonometry
  • Investigate common misconceptions in trigonometric notation
USEFUL FOR

Students learning trigonometry, educators teaching mathematical concepts, and anyone seeking to clarify trigonometric function notation and calculations.

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hello my calculator can't do Cos^4(10).
my lecturer i think said that Cos(10^4) would give the same answer but i can't remember what exactly he said. Please help me!
 
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In Radians
Cos^4(10)=(Cos(10))^4~0.49567377320016326248312233272211
Cos(10^4)~-0.95215536825901485124038676066331
 
WHY can't your calculator do cos4(10)? It certainly looks straightforward. Do you get some kind of error message?
 
howsaboutno said:
hello my calculator can't do Cos^4(10).
my lecturer i think said that Cos(10^4) would give the same answer but i can't remember what exactly he said. Please help me!

Well from your post it's pretty clear that you don't even understand what cos^4(10) means, so surely the underlying problem is here and not with the calculator.

\cos^n(x) means (\cos\,x)^n, ok.

So now you know what it means I suppose that your calculator will now be able to do it.
 

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