Why Focus Only on the Positive Root in Cosine Triple Angle Formula?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding an algebraic expression for cos((1/3)*arccos(x)), focusing on eliminating trigonometric functions from the equation. The problem is situated within the context of trigonometric identities and algebraic manipulation, particularly involving cubic equations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the cubic equation x = 4y^3 - 3y and question whether it is necessary to solve it to find the desired expression. Some express discomfort with solving cubics, while others suggest alternative methods involving logarithmic expressions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with various methods proposed, including solving the cubic equation and using exponential forms. Some participants express frustration over the complexity of the problem and the presence of imaginary components in their results. There is no explicit consensus on the best approach, but multiple avenues for exploration have been identified.

Contextual Notes

Participants note constraints regarding the definitions of x and the conditions under which the expressions hold true. There are references to previous attempts and the need for clarity in the algebraic manipulations involved.

  • #31
Zetison, this thread has been running for many months. Perhaps you should give a shot at what was suggested in post #26. Just make an appropriate substitution, z=e^{i x} and solve for z.
 
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  • #32
Well, I can make a new thread where you have to get rid of the i-s...

This is not any schoolwork so I have all the time in the world :smile:

I have tried what's in post #26 with no result

How do you get an expression for x, when you got both eix and e-ix? And even if I get an expression for arccos without i-s, I still have to get rid of cos...
 
  • #33
You will see it once you get there. Show your work and I will give you a hint to get past the point where you are stuck. Use the hint in post #31.
 
  • #34
2y=eix+e-ix
z=eix
2y=z+z-1
2yz=z2+1
z2-2yz+1=0
z=(y+(y2-1)0,5) or z=(y-(y2-1)0,5)
eix=(y+(y2-1)0,5) or eix=(y-(y2-1)0,5)

ix=ln(y+(y2-1)0,5) or ix=ln(y-(y2-1)0,5)

x=i-1ln(y+(y2-1)0,5) or x=i-1ln(y-(y2-1)0,5)
 
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  • #35
See you can do it! Take the solution with the positive root and plug it into the exponential form of your original equation.
 
  • #36
Yes, and this is what I get. I guess that's the far as I am going to get:
cos(\frac{1}{3}arccos(x)) = \frac{(x + \sqrt{x^2-1})^{1/3}}{2} + \frac 1 {2(x+\sqrt{x^2-1})^{1/3}}

But again, my x is defined as

x = \frac{473419}{6121\sqrt{6121}}

approximate x = 0.9885806704.

So my final goal here is to get exact values for

z = \frac{79}{60} + \frac{1}{30} \sqrt{6121} cos(\frac{1}{3}arccos(x)) = \frac{79}{60} + \frac{1}{30} \sqrt{6121} \frac{(x + \sqrt{x^2-1})^{1/3}}{2} + \frac 1 {2(x+\sqrt{x^2-1})^{1/3}}

But that is very difficult to express when
x = \frac{473419}{6121\sqrt{6121}}.

Is it possible?
 
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  • #37
The problem of this thread is actually solved. Maybe I shall make a new thread about my main goal...
 
  • #38
Cyosis said:
See you can do it! Take the solution with the positive root and plug it into the exponential form of your original equation.

Why are we not interested in the negative root?
 

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