Trigonometry Help: Solving for Theta

In summary, the person needs help with a math problem involving cosines and sines. They have attempted to solve it and gotten a value for R and theta, but are unsure if their approach is correct. They also mention needing help with using LaTex. Another person suggests using a formula and solving for alpha to find the maximum value, and provides a link to a LaTex tutorial. The original person asks for clarification on how to use R in the formula. The conversation ends with the second person explaining how to use R in the formula.
  • #1
ibysaiyan
442
0
1.
Hi
Its the bit (c) where i am stuck at although it doesn't look much complicated, for all i know is that max value for cos =1 , so cos inverse becomes 0. The answer on the mark scheme is theta = 326 which i can't figure out.Thanks

Homework Equations



10i5wcw.png



The Attempt at a Solution



 
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  • #2
ibysaiyan said:
1.
Hi
Its the bit (c) where i am stuck at although it doesn't look much complicated, for all i know is that max value for cos =1 , so cos inverse becomes 0. The answer on the mark scheme is theta = 326 which i can't figure out.Thanks

Homework Equations



10i5wcw.png



The Attempt at a Solution


I'm just wondering, have you tried it? I would start by observing that

[tex]cos(\theta + \alpha) = cos(\theta) cos(\alpha) - sin(\theta) sin(\alpha)[/tex]

After solving for [tex]\alpha[/tex], you then can find a maximum [tex]cos(\theta+\alpha)[/tex] which when multiplied by R will give the answer to part (c).

If you need further help, post your work so far.
 
  • #3
kg4pae said:
I'm just wondering, have you tried it? I would start by observing that

[tex]cos(\theta + \alpha) = cos(\theta) cos(\alpha) - sin(\theta) sin(\alpha)[/tex]

After solving for [tex]\alpha[/tex], you then can find a maximum [tex]cos(\theta+\alpha)[/tex] which when multiplied by R will give the answer to part (c).

If you need further help, post your work so far.

Ah how weird i just did another similar question of which i got the answers hmm anyway, here is what i did:
i got the R value square root. 13 (by equating co-efficients of sin and cos),
theta 33.7.
P.S: Sorry i have yet to become latex friendly , if only someone could post me a tutorial on how to use it lol .
 
  • #4
kg4pae said:
I'm just wondering, have you tried it? I would start by observing that

[tex]cos(\theta + \alpha) = cos(\theta) cos(\alpha) - sin(\theta) sin(\alpha)[/tex]

After solving for [tex]\alpha[/tex], you then can find a maximum [tex]cos(\theta+\alpha)[/tex] which when multiplied by R will give the answer to part (c).

If you need further help, post your work so far.
Note that [tex]cos(\theta+\alpha)=1[/tex] means that [tex]\theta=-\alpha[/tex]. However, the pattern repeats every [tex]360^o[/tex].
 
  • #5
kg4pae said:
I'm just wondering, have you tried it? I would start by observing that

[tex]cos(\theta + \alpha) = cos(\theta) cos(\alpha) - sin(\theta) sin(\alpha)[/tex]

After solving for [tex]\alpha[/tex], you then can find a maximum [tex]cos(\theta+\alpha)[/tex] which when multiplied by R will give the answer to part (c).

If you need further help, post your work so far.

Oh! would i let R[tex]cos(\theta+\alpha)[/tex]= 1?
 
  • #6
ibysaiyan said:
Ah how weird i just did another similar question of which i got the answers hmm anyway, here is what i did:
i got the R value square root. 13 (by equating co-efficients of sin and cos),
theta 33.7.
P.S: Sorry i have yet to become latex friendly , if only someone could post me a tutorial on how to use it lol .
No problem. A good start with LaTex is http://frodo.elon.edu/tutorial/tutorial/". Others can be found by Googling "latex tutorial". At any rate, take care, 73s and clear skies.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #7
kg4pae said:
No problem. A good start with LaTex is http://frodo.elon.edu/tutorial/tutorial/". Others can be found by Googling "latex tutorial". At any rate, take care, 73s and clear skies.

Thanks alot!:) for the link .
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #8
ibysaiyan said:
Oh! would i let R[tex]cos(\theta+\alpha)[/tex]= 1?
Not quite. Let [tex]cos(\theta+\alpha)=1[/tex]. That will give the maximum for [tex]3 cos(\theta) - 2 sin(\theta)[/tex] after it is multiplied by R. Since R is effectively a constant any maximum of [tex]cos(\theta+\alpha)[/tex] will be proportionate to [tex]R cos(\theta+\alpha)=3 cos(\theta) - 2 sin(\theta)[/tex].
 

FAQ: Trigonometry Help: Solving for Theta

What is theta in trigonometry?

Theta is a variable used to represent an angle in a right triangle. It is typically measured in degrees or radians.

How do you solve for theta in a trigonometric equation?

To solve for theta, you need to use the appropriate trigonometric function (sine, cosine, or tangent) and the given information about the triangle, such as side lengths or other angles. You can use inverse trigonometric functions to find the value of theta.

Can you explain the concept of SOH-CAH-TOA in solving for theta?

SOH-CAH-TOA is a mnemonic device used to remember the trigonometric ratios. SOH stands for "sine equals opposite over hypotenuse," CAH stands for "cosine equals adjacent over hypotenuse," and TOA stands for "tangent equals opposite over adjacent." These ratios are helpful in solving for theta in right triangles.

What are the common applications of solving for theta in real-life situations?

Solving for theta in trigonometry is commonly used in various fields such as engineering, physics, and astronomy. It is also used in navigation, surveying, and construction to determine angles and distances.

What are some tips for solving for theta efficiently?

Some tips for solving for theta efficiently include drawing accurate diagrams, using the appropriate trigonometric function, and remembering the unit circle values for common angles. It is also helpful to practice solving various types of trigonometric equations to improve problem-solving skills.

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