Math Problem Statement

Simplify the expression secθ - tanθ sinθ

Solution

The expression shown in the image is:

secθtanθsinθ\sec \theta - \tan \theta \sin \theta

Let's simplify it step by step.

Step 1: Recall trigonometric identities.

We know that: secθ=1cosθ\sec \theta = \frac{1}{\cos \theta} and tanθ=sinθcosθ\tan \theta = \frac{\sin \theta}{\cos \theta}

Step 2: Substitute the identity for tanθ\tan \theta.

The given expression becomes: secθ(sinθcosθ)sinθ\sec \theta - \left(\frac{\sin \theta}{\cos \theta}\right)\sin \theta

Step 3: Simplify the second term.

The second term simplifies to: sin2θcosθ\frac{\sin^2 \theta}{\cos \theta}

Thus, the expression now becomes: 1cosθsin2θcosθ\frac{1}{\cos \theta} - \frac{\sin^2 \theta}{\cos \theta}

Step 4: Combine the terms.

Since both terms have the same denominator, we can combine them: 1sin2θcosθ\frac{1 - \sin^2 \theta}{\cos \theta}

Step 5: Use the Pythagorean identity.

We use the Pythagorean identity: 1sin2θ=cos2θ1 - \sin^2 \theta = \cos^2 \theta

Thus, the expression simplifies to: cos2θcosθ\frac{\cos^2 \theta}{\cos \theta}

Step 6: Simplify further.

Finally, simplify the fraction: cosθ\cos \theta

So, the simplified form of the expression is: cosθ\boxed{\cos \theta}

Would you like more details or have any questions?

Here are 5 related questions to expand on this:

  1. How do you derive the Pythagorean identity 1sin2θ=cos2θ1 - \sin^2 \theta = \cos^2 \theta?
  2. What is the relationship between secθ\sec \theta and cosθ\cos \theta?
  3. Can you apply similar steps to simplify the expression sec2θtan2θ\sec^2 \theta - \tan^2 \theta?
  4. How does the simplification of trigonometric expressions help in solving trigonometric equations?
  5. What are other common trigonometric identities used in simplifications?

Tip: Always look for common identities like the Pythagorean identities to simplify complex trigonometric expressions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Simplification of Trigonometric Expressions

Formulas

secθ = 1 / cosθ
tanθ = sinθ / cosθ
Pythagorean identity: 1 - sin^2θ = cos^2θ

Theorems

Pythagorean Identity

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12