Solving Trig Equations: Sin/Tan | Tutorial & Working

  • Thread starter Rudders
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In summary, to solve the trig equations sin(x + 30) = 1 and tan(x + 45) = 1, you can use the substitution method by letting u = x + 30 or u = x + 45. Then, solve for u and use the relation between u and x to find the values of x. Remember to consider the periodicity of sine and tangent functions when finding all possible solutions.
  • #1
Rudders
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Hi,

I'm just stumped on how to solve the following type of trig equation. Could someone show working / a tutorial on how to solve similar equations. I'm fine with simple ones like: 4 + sinx = 3 , but this style has me stumped:

sin(x + 30) = 1
or

tan(x + 45) = 1

Thanks!
 
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  • #2
Try letting u = x + 30 in the first one, or u= x+45 in the second one. Then, solve it just like you are used to and you attain your values for u. You know the relation between u and x, easy. =]

EDIT: I didn't realize this wasn't the homework forum when I posted. From now on, please only ask homework style questions in the Homework Help forum.
 
  • #3
sin(x + 30) = 1

( x + 30 ) = 90

x = 90 - 30

x = 60
 
  • #4
HanQing said:
sin(x + 30) = 1

( x + 30 ) = 90

x = 90 - 30

x = 60

x = 60 + 2k pi

edit: oh wait, in degrees that is:
x = 60 + 360k

Where k is any whole number.

Because sine is repetitive every 360 deg or 2pi rad.
 
  • #5
ImAnEngineer said:
x = 60 + 2k pi

edit: oh wait, in degrees that is:
x = 60 + 360k

Where k is any whole number.

Because sine is repetitive every 360 deg or 2pi rad.

opps yea you are right ,forgot to include that =.=
 

FAQ: Solving Trig Equations: Sin/Tan | Tutorial & Working

What are trigonometric equations?

Trigonometric equations are mathematical equations that involve trigonometric functions such as sine, cosine, and tangent. These equations are used to solve problems related to angles and triangles.

What is the process for solving trigonometric equations?

The process for solving trigonometric equations involves using algebraic techniques to isolate the trigonometric function and then using inverse trigonometric functions to find the solution. It is important to follow the order of operations and pay attention to the domain and range of trigonometric functions.

What is the difference between solving a trigonometric equation and evaluating a trigonometric expression?

Solving a trigonometric equation means finding the value of the variable that makes the equation true. Evaluating a trigonometric expression means finding the numerical value of the expression given specific values for the variables. In solving an equation, we are looking for a specific value, while in evaluating an expression, we are finding the value for a given set of variables.

What are some common strategies for solving trigonometric equations?

Some common strategies for solving trigonometric equations include using trigonometric identities, factoring, substitution, and converting trigonometric functions to exponentials. It is also helpful to draw graphs of the trigonometric functions to visually understand the solutions.

What are some real-world applications of solving trigonometric equations?

Trigonometric equations are used in various fields such as engineering, physics, and navigation. They can be used to solve problems involving angles, distances, and heights, among others. For example, trigonometric equations can be used to calculate the height of a building, the distance between two points, or the trajectory of a projectile.

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