- #1
james_stewart
- 4
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Homework Statement
cos^2x-cotx
--------------- = cot^2x
sin^2x-tanx
Homework Equations
The Attempt at a Solution
every solution I get gives me a zero, not cot^2
james_stewart said:cos^2x-cotx
--------------- = cot^2x
sin^2x-tanx
james_stewart said:i did and I'm not getting the proper results.
when i convert cot and tan to cos/sin and sin/cos i get
cos^2-cos^2
-------------
sin^2-sin^2
tiny-tim said:(please use the X2 tag just above the Reply box)
No, you should get cos2 - cos/sin on the top …
james_stewart said:i did
and on the bottom i get sin2-sin/cos
tiny-tim said:ok, now put sin2-sin/cos as one fraction (ie with everything over the same denominator), and the same for cos2-cos/sin
james_stewart said:That's how i did it. but where do i get cot2 from this?
cos2 - cos/sin
--------------
sin2 - sin/cos
A trig identity is an equation involving trigonometric functions that is always true for all values of the variables. It is used to simplify expressions and solve problems in trigonometry.
To prove a trig identity, you need to manipulate and rearrange the given equation using algebraic and trigonometric identities until both sides of the equation are equivalent.
Some common trig identities include the Pythagorean identities, sum and difference identities, double angle identities, and half angle identities.
No, calculators cannot be used to prove trig identities. You need to use algebraic and trigonometric manipulation to prove the identity.
Proving trig identities is important because it helps to verify the accuracy of equations and expressions, and allows for the simplification of complex problems in trigonometry.