Use the double angle formulae and the identity cos(A+B)≡cos(A)cos(B)−sin(A)sin(B) to obtain an expression for cos 3x in terms of cos x only

To answer, you need to know and be able to use your trigonometric formulae including the double angle formulae on data sheet.

1: cos(3x)=cos(2x+x) = cos(2x)cos(x) - sin(2x)sin(x)        split the 3x into two terms, 2x and x

2: Using trig identity cos(2A)=2cos^2(x) - 1   and  sin(2A)=2sinAcosA

cos(2x)cos(x) - sin(2x)sin(x) = [2cos^2(x) - 1]cos(x) - [2sin(x)cos(x)]sin(x)

3: expand out

2cos^3(x) - cos(x) - 2[sin^2(x)]cos(x)

4: use trig identity sin^2(x)=1 - cos^2(x)

2cos^3(x) - cos(x) - 2cos(x)[1 - cos^2(x)]

5: simplify

Answer = 4cos^3(x) - 3cos(x)

SH
Answered by Sam H. Maths tutor

16037 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

SOLVE THE FOLLOWING SIMULTANEOUS EQUATIONS: 5x^2 + 3x - 3y = 4, -4x - 6y + 5x^2 = -7


When and how do I use the product rule for differentiation?


What is the chain rule and how is it used?


Given that y=(4x^2)lnx, find f"(x) when x=e^2


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning