How are these two equations equal? trig identities possibly?

In summary, the goal of this exercise is to prove the identity (1/6)sin(3x)-(1/18)sin(9x) = (2/9)sin^3(3x) by using multiple angle formulas to expand sin(9x) and then simplifying to express sin(9x) in terms of 3x. It is important to note that the equation is not "equal" to another equation, but rather it is an identity to be proven.
  • #1
Chaoticoli
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0

Homework Statement


Proof that (1/6)sin(3x)-(1/18)sin(9x) = (2/9)sin^3(3x)


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I am just curious exactly how the power on the sine function is cubic on one side. It obviously has to do with something that increases the power on the sin(9x) function after it becomes a sin(3x). In other words, higher multiple angles somehow increase the trig power and I am not exactly sure how or what formula I should use to prove their equality.
 
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  • #2
I would use the multiple angle formulas for sin(nx) on the LHS of the equation to expand sin(9x).
 
  • #3
I'd expand sin(9x) by first expressing it as sin(6x+3x) and then expand both cos(6x) and sin(6x) terms with cos(2(3x)) and sin(2(3x)) - or equivalently, cos(3x+3x) and sin(3x+3x).

However, if you know the expansion of cos(3u) and sin(3u) in terms of cos(u) and sin(u), then you can jump straight to expressing sin(9x) in terms of 3x.
 
  • #4
A couple of minor points. "How are these two equations equal?"

You have only one equation, and the goal of the exercise is to prove that the equation is an identity.

One equation can never be "equal" to another equation. An equation might be equivalent to another equation if the solutions sets for the two equations are the same.
 

Related to How are these two equations equal? trig identities possibly?

What is a trigonometric identity?

A trigonometric identity is a mathematical equation that is true for all values of the variables involved. These identities are fundamental in the study of trigonometry and are used to simplify and solve equations.

How do you prove two equations are equal using trig identities?

To prove that two equations are equal using trig identities, you need to manipulate one equation using the identities until it is in the same form as the other equation. Then, you can show that both equations have the same solutions by substituting in values for the variables.

What is the process for solving trigonometric equations using identities?

The process for solving trigonometric equations using identities involves manipulating the equations using identities and algebraic techniques to simplify them. Then, you can solve for the unknown variable by using inverse trigonometric functions and verifying the solution by substituting it back into the original equation.

Why are trig identities important?

Trig identities are important because they allow us to simplify and solve complex trigonometric equations. They also help us to understand the relationships between different trigonometric functions and are used in a variety of fields such as physics, engineering, and calculus.

What are some common trig identities?

Some common trig identities include the Pythagorean identities, double angle identities, half angle identities, sum and difference identities, and the reciprocal identities. These identities can be used to solve a wide range of trigonometric equations and simplify complex expressions.

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