Solve for 0=<x<360 : 2((tanx)^2) + ((secx)^2) = 1

First step I would take would make it look less intimidating by converting all components into sin and cos i.e

2(((sinx)/(cosx))^2) + 1/((cosx)^2) = 1

Notice that there is a common denominator of cosx^2    so I would multiply this up:

2((sinx)^2) + 1 = (cosx)^2

Eliminate cos by putting it in the form of sin using the trig identiy (cosx)^2 = 1 - (sinx)^2

so we have:

2((sinx)^2) + 1 = 1 - (sinx)^2

rearranging we obtain

3((sinx)^2) = 0

(sinx)^2 = 0

sinx = 0

In between 0 and 360, the sine function is 0 at 0 and 180 (360 is also a solution but not in the range)

so x = 0, 180

BP
Answered by Bryan P. Maths tutor

5397 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Find the coordinate of the turning point of the curve y = x^2 - 10x + 7, by completing the square


How to differentiate 2x^5-4x^3+x^2 with respect to x


find the coordinates of the turning points of the curve y = 2x^4-4x^3+3, and determine the nature of these points


How can I get better at Mathematics? I am struggling with confidence and achieving low grades.


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