Why Does My Calculator Show Different Results for Inverse Sin in Trigonometry?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the evaluation of the inverse sine function in the context of the equation y = 2 cos x + sin 2x. The user encountered discrepancies between calculator outputs for inverse sin(-0.25) and the expected result of approximately 3.39 radians. The confusion arose from neglecting the third quadrant's properties in the ASTC diagram, which indicates that the correct angle should be calculated as π plus the basic angle derived from arcsin(1/4). Additionally, the second derivative of the function was clarified, revealing a missing constant in the user's calculation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric functions and their properties
  • Familiarity with the ASTC diagram for angle evaluation
  • Knowledge of inverse trigonometric functions, specifically arcsin
  • Ability to compute derivatives and apply the double-angle formula
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of the ASTC diagram for trigonometric functions
  • Learn about the double-angle formulas in trigonometry
  • Practice solving inverse trigonometric equations with different quadrants
  • Explore graphing techniques for verifying trigonometric function outputs
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in mathematics, particularly those focusing on trigonometry and calculus, as well as anyone seeking to understand the nuances of inverse trigonometric functions and their applications.

DMac
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[SOLVED] Concavity of Trig Functions

I'm working out a problem, but I'm stuck at a spot.

The original equation is y = 2 cos x + sin 2x, and yes I did the second derivative, which came out to be

cos x (4 sin x + 1)

when i equate it to zero, i get
cos x = 0 and 4 sin x + 1 = 0

(Let's just say the domain was defined from 0 to 2 pi)

For SOME reason, I keep trying to evaluate x when 4 sin x + 1 = 0

by using inverse sin ...so x = inverse sin (-0.25)

My calculator is in radians, but it still gives me an answer of -0.25. I used a graphing calculator, and the answer SHOULD be 3.39. What am I doing wrong?
 
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You forgot that the third quadrant anti-clockwise of the ASTC diagram is also negative. And that corresponds to pi + the basic angle. Basic angle is given by arcsin 1/4.
 
The original equation is y = 2 cos x + sin 2x, and yes I did the second derivative, which came out to be

cos x (4 sin x + 1)
In your second derivative, I believe you are missing a constant

y'=2(cos(2x)-sin(x)), then y'' = -2(2sin(2x)+cos(x)) = -2cos(x)(4sin(x)+1)
By double-angle formula sin(2A)=2sin(A)cos(A)
 

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