Solve the equation cos2x - 5cosx = 2

cos2x= 2cos^2x - 1

2cos^2x - 1 - 5cosx = 2

Let cosx = y

2y^2 - 5y - 3 = 0

(2y + 1)(y + 3) = 0

y = -1/2 or -3

cosx = -1/2 or -3

x = 120 degrees

PV
Answered by Pearl V. Maths tutor

13519 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the definite integral of 2x^2 + 4x + 1 with a lower limit of 3 and a higher limit of 6?


Differentiate (3x^2-5x)/(4x^3+2x^2)


How to differentiate tan(x)?


Find the turning point of the line y = -2x^2 +5x -9


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning