How to Simplify This Trigonometric Equation Using Substitutions?

In summary: If so, you can use that to simplify the expression. In summary, the conversation is discussing a trigonometric identity involving the substitution method. The goal is to simplify the expression using trigonometric identities, specifically one for ##\cos(2\alpha)##.
  • #1
Fred1230
2
1
Returning if I have to show the effort, I came to this:
[tex]\frac{\sin4\alpha}{1+\cos4\alpha}\cdot\frac{\cos2\alpha}{1+\cos2\alpha}\cdot\frac{\cos\alpha}{1+\cos\alpha}=\tan\frac{\alpha}{2}.[/tex]
=
[tex]\frac{\sin4\alpha}{\sin^2\alpha+cos^2\alpha+\cos4\alpha}\cdot\frac{(\sin^2\alpha+cos^2\alpha)-2sin^2\alpha}{\sin^2\alpha+cos^2\alpha+\cos2\alpha}\cdot\frac{\cos\alpha}{\sin^2\alpha+cos^2\alpha+\cos\alpha}=\frac{\sin\alpha^2}{\cos2\alpha}.[/tex]
I don't know how to use substitutions
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
[tex]s=\sin\alpha[/tex] and [tex]c=\cos\alpha[/tex]
 
  • #4
Fred1230 said:
Returning if I have to show the effort, I came to this:
[tex]\frac{\sin4\alpha}{1+\cos4\alpha}\cdot\frac{\cos2\alpha}{1+\cos2\alpha}\cdot\frac{\cos\alpha}{1+\cos\alpha}=\tan\frac{\alpha}{2}.[/tex]
=
[tex]\frac{\sin4\alpha}{\sin^2\alpha+cos^2\alpha+\cos4\alpha}\cdot\frac{(\sin^2\alpha+cos^2\alpha)-2sin^2\alpha}{\sin^2\alpha+cos^2\alpha+\cos2\alpha}\cdot\frac{\cos\alpha}{\sin^2\alpha+cos^2\alpha+\cos\alpha}=\frac{\sin\alpha^2}{\cos2\alpha}.[/tex]
I don't know how to use substitutions
Substitute ##\alpha=60^{\circ}## in your expression and check if you come out with ##\tan30^{\circ}##. If not it's back to the drawing board!
 
  • #5
Fred1230 said:
Returning if I have to show the effort, I came to this:
[tex]\frac{\sin4\alpha}{1+\cos4\alpha}\cdot\frac{\cos2\alpha}{1+\cos2\alpha}\cdot\frac{\cos\alpha}{1+\cos\alpha}=\tan\frac{\alpha}{2}.[/tex]
=
[tex]\frac{\sin4\alpha}{\sin^2\alpha+cos^2\alpha+\cos4\alpha}\cdot\frac{(\sin^2\alpha+cos^2\alpha)-2sin^2\alpha}{\sin^2\alpha+cos^2\alpha+\cos2\alpha}\cdot\frac{\cos\alpha}{\sin^2\alpha+cos^2\alpha+\cos\alpha}=\frac{\sin\alpha^2}{\cos2\alpha}.[/tex]
I don't know how to use substitutions
Do you know a formula for ##\cos(2\alpha)## in terms of ##\cos(\alpha)##?
 

FAQ: How to Simplify This Trigonometric Equation Using Substitutions?

What is the purpose of using substitutions in trigonometric equations?

Substitutions in trigonometric equations are used to simplify complex expressions, making them easier to solve. By replacing trigonometric functions with simpler variables, you can often reduce the problem to a more manageable algebraic form.

What are common substitutions used in trigonometric equations?

Common substitutions include using \( u = \sin(x) \), \( v = \cos(x) \), or \( t = \tan(x) \). Additionally, using identities such as \( \sin^2(x) + \cos^2(x) = 1 \) can help simplify the equations further.

How do I choose the right substitution for a given trigonometric equation?

Choosing the right substitution depends on the form of the equation. Look for patterns or common trigonometric identities that match parts of your equation. For example, if you see \( \sin^2(x) \) and \( \cos^2(x) \), consider using the Pythagorean identity.

Can substitutions help in solving trigonometric equations involving multiple angles?

Yes, substitutions can be particularly useful for equations involving multiple angles. For instance, you can use the double-angle identities such as \( \sin(2x) = 2\sin(x)\cos(x) \) to simplify terms before making a substitution.

What should I do if the substitution leads to a more complicated equation?

If the substitution makes the equation more complicated, consider reverting to the original form and trying a different substitution. Sometimes, iterative substitutions or combining multiple identities can also help in simplifying the equation effectively.

Similar threads

Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
17
Views
2K
Replies
20
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
5
Views
951
Back
Top