What is the quadratic trig identity for cosine when simplified?

In summary, we can use double-angle identities to rewrite the equation as $\cos(4x)=1-8\sin^2(x)+8\sin^4(x)$.
  • #1
karush
Gold Member
MHB
3,269
5
$$\cos\left({4x}\right)
=8\sin^4\left({x}\right)
-8\sin^2\left({x}\right)
+1$$

I thought this would break down
nice from the quadratic but it didn't.
 
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  • #2
First, apply a double-angle identity for cosine:

\(\displaystyle \cos(4x)=1-2\sin^2(2x)\)

Next, apply the double-angle identity for sine:

\(\displaystyle \cos(4x)=1-2\left(2\sin(x)\cos(x)\right)^2=1-8\sin^2(x)\cos^2(x)\)

Can you proceed? :D
 
  • #3
$$1-8\sin^4\left({x}\right)+8\sin^2\left({x}\right)$$
=1-8 (\sin^2\left({x}\right)(\sin^2\left({x}\right)-1))$$
 
Last edited:
  • #4
karush said:
$$1-8\sin^2\left({x}\right)
\cos^2\left({x}\right)
=1-8 (\sin^2\left({x}\right)(\sin^2\left({x}\right)-1))$$

Not quite:

\(\displaystyle \sin^2(x)+\cos^2(x)=1\implies\cos^2(x)=1-\sin^2(x)\)
 
  • #5
$$1-8\left[\sin^2\left({x}\right)\left(1-\sin^2\left({x}\right)\right)\right]$$
$$1-8\sin^2\left({x}\right)+8\sin^4\left({x}\right)$$
 

FAQ: What is the quadratic trig identity for cosine when simplified?

What is a quadratic trig identity?

A quadratic trig identity is an equation that relates two or more trigonometric functions, with one function being squared.

What is the most common quadratic trig identity?

The most common quadratic trig identity is the Pythagorean Identity, which states that for any angle θ, sin²θ + cos²θ = 1.

How do you use a quadratic trig identity?

To use a quadratic trig identity, you first need to identify which identity is relevant to the problem. Then, you can manipulate the equation to solve for the unknown variable or to simplify an expression.

Why are quadratic trig identities useful?

Quadratic trig identities are useful because they allow us to simplify complex trigonometric expressions and solve trigonometric equations, making it easier to solve problems in mathematics and science.

Can you give an example of a quadratic trig identity?

One example of a quadratic trig identity is tan²θ + 1 = sec²θ, which can be derived from the Pythagorean Identity by dividing both sides by cos²θ.

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