Math Problem Statement
Write the general formula for all the solutions to cosine left parenthesis 2 theta right parenthesis equals negative StartFraction StartRoot 3 EndRoot Over 2 EndFractioncos(2θ)=− 3 2 based on the smaller angle.
Solution
To solve the equation , let's break it down step by step:
Step 1: Identify the reference angle
We know that corresponds to angles where the cosine function is negative. In the unit circle, the cosine value of happens at specific reference angles.
This means that for , we have two possible reference angles for : where is any integer, accounting for the periodic nature of the cosine function.
Step 2: Solve for
Now, we solve for by dividing both sides of each equation by 2: where is any integer.
Step 3: General formula
Thus, the general solution to is: where is any integer.
Summary
The general solution for all values of that satisfy is: where .
Would you like more details on any part of this process or have additional questions? Here are a few related questions to explore:
- How does the unit circle relate to the cosine function?
- What is the impact of different values of on the solutions?
- Can you derive similar general solutions for other trigonometric equations like ?
- How do you determine the general solution for sine functions in a similar way?
- What are the periodic properties of trigonometric functions?
Tip: Always remember that the general solution to a trigonometric equation involves considering both the reference angles and the periodic nature of the trigonometric functions.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Trigonometry
Cosine Function
Unit Circle
Periodic Functions
Formulas
cos(2θ) = -√3/2
cos^(-1)(-√3/2)
θ = (5π/12) + kπ or θ = (7π/12) + kπ
Theorems
Unit Circle
Periodic Properties of Cosine Function
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 9-12