Why is sin (x+x) = sinx cosx + cosx sinx ?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the trigonometric identity sin(2x) = 2sin(x)cos(x) and its derivation using the angle sum formula sin(x+y) = sin(x)cos(y) + cos(x)sin(y). Participants clarify that substituting x for y in the angle sum formula leads to the double angle formula. Additionally, Euler's formula e^{ix} = cos(x) + i*sin(x) is referenced as a method to derive these identities. The conversation also addresses misconceptions regarding the identity and emphasizes the importance of understanding angle sum identities before exploring double angle identities.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric identities, specifically sin(x+y) and sin(2x).
  • Familiarity with Euler's formula e^{ix} = cos(x) + i*sin(x).
  • Basic knowledge of geometric proofs related to trigonometric functions.
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic expressions involving trigonometric functions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of trigonometric identities using Euler's formula.
  • Learn about geometric proofs for trigonometric identities.
  • Explore the implications of angle sum identities in various mathematical contexts.
  • Investigate the applications of double angle formulas in calculus and physics.
USEFUL FOR

Students of mathematics, educators teaching trigonometry, and anyone interested in deepening their understanding of trigonometric identities and their applications.

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Why is sin (x+x) = sinx cosx + cosx sinx ? Simple explanation required please
 
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sin (x+y) = sin x cos y + cos x sin y. Simply place an "x" for the "y" in the formula. Noted: sin (2x) = 2sin x cos x.
 
I don't know if you are familiar with Euler's formula, but if you are then those trig formulas are easy to derive:
e^{ix}=\cos{x}+i*\sin{x}
so
e^{i2x}=(\cos{x}+i*\sin{x})^2
=\cos^2{x}+2i*\sin{x}*\cos{x}-\sin^2{x}
Since
\sin{x}=Im:e^{ix}
Then
\sin{2x}=2*\sin{x}\cos{x}
You also get the double angle formula for cosine for free. If you do not know Euler's formula, then you can still prove this geometrically, but it will take more work.
 
rindech said:
sin (x+y) = sin x cos y + cos x sin y. Simply place an "x" for the "y" in the formula. Noted: sin (2x) = 2sin x cos x.
?
This is not correct.
What if I say that: sin(x + y) = sin(x)sin(y) + cos(x)cos(y) + sin(x)cos(y) + sin(y)cos(x) - 1.
It certainly satisfies: sin(2x) = sin(x + x) = 2sin(x)cos(x). But it's not true, right?
And moreover, it's some kind of circular argument. One should know the angle sum identities before they know the double identities.
There's a geometry proof at the end of this article. (it works for 0 <= x, y <= 90o). One can then show that the identity is true for every angle.
 
Last edited:
VietDao29 said:
?
This is not correct.
What if I say that: sin(x + y) = sin(x)sin(y) + cos(x)cos(y) + sin(x)cos(y) + sin(y)cos(x) - 1.
It certainly satisfies: sin(2x) = sin(x + x) = 2sin(x)cos(x). But it's not true, right?

It's certainly true if x=y but not in general. But sin(2x) does equal 2sin(x)cos(x) because sin(x+y) = sin(x)cos(y) + cos(x)siny(y)
 

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