Show how '2sin(x)+sec(x+ π/6)=0' can be expressed as √3sin(x)cos(x)+cos^2(x)=0.

To do this question we must first be aware of a few trigonometric identities. 1. sec(x) = 1/cos(x). 2. cos(A + B) = cos(A)cos(B) - sin(A)sin(B). (double angle formula) 3 . sin^2(x) = 1 - cos^2(x) Before diving in, inspect the given expression and expression you are trying to get to. All terms on the RHS have 'x' within the brackets, therefore we must be using double angle formula to separate a sec term on the LHS. Only sin and cos are present on the RHS therefore we must try to change the sec term into another trig function. 1. Using identity 1. above, '2sin(x)+sec(x+ π/6)=0' can be changed to '2sin(x)+1/cos(x + π/6)=0' 2. considering only cos(x + π/6), use identity 2. to express it as functions only containing 1 term. A = x B = π/6 cos(x + π/6) = cos(x)cos(π/6) - sin(x)sin(π/6) here it is useful to notice that cos(π/6) and sin(π/6) are known values. Put each one into your calculator and you will find, cos(π/6) = √3/2 and sin(π/6) = 1/2 therefore 2sin(x)+sec(x+ π/6)=0 → 2sin(x)+1/((√3/2)cos(x) - (1/2)sin(x)) = 0 3. In order to get it into a form closer to the final expression, multiply through by (√3/2)cos(x) - (1/2)sin(x). This gives √3sin(x)cos(x) - sin^2(x) +1=0 4. Using identity 3 above, sin^2(x) → 1 - cos^2(x) simplifying will give √3sin(x)cos(x)+cos^2(x)=0

Answered by Ruadhan P. Maths tutor

7535 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

If y=cos(3x)cosec(4x), find dy/dx.


What is integration?


A ball is thrown vertically upwards with a speed of 24.5m/s. For how long is the ball higher than 29.4m above its initial position? Take acceleration due to gravity to be 9.8m/s^2.


How can I calculate the maximum value of the compound angle formulae Rsin(x+a) and Rcos(x+a)?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy