Prove that 1 + tan^2 x = sec^2 x

We know that tan x = sin x/cos x and so tan2x = sin2x/cos2x. We also know that sin2x + cos2x = 1 because this is a Pythagorean identity. We can rewrite the left hand side as (cos2x + sin2x)/cos2x because 1 can be rewritten as cos2x/cos2x. Because sin2x + cos2x = 1, we can simplify the numerator of the left hand side, meaning that  (cos2x + sin2x)/cos2x  = 1/cos2x  which is sec2x (the right hand side). Therefore LHS=RHS and we have proven 1 + tan2 x = sec2 x

EF
Answered by Eleanor F. Maths tutor

24657 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

4. The curve C has equation 4x^2 – y3 – 4xy + 2y = 0. P has coordinates (–2, 4) lies on C. (a) Find the exact value of d d y x at the point P. (6) The normal to C at P meets the y-axis at the point A. (b) Find the y coordinate of A


A curve C has the equation x^3 + 6xy + y^2 = 0. Find dy/dx in terms of x and y.


How does one find the equation of a line passing through 2 points of a graph?


Express as a single logarithm 2 loga 6 loga 3 [2 marks]


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