Math Problem Statement

Solve sin(2x) = sin(x) on 0 ≤ x < 2π.

Solution

Let's solve the given equation:

Problem:

Solve sin(2x)=sin(x)\sin(2x) = \sin(x) for 0x<2π0 \leq x < 2\pi.


Step 1: Using Trigonometric Identities

The equation can be rewritten using the double-angle identity: sin(2x)=2sin(x)cos(x)\sin(2x) = 2\sin(x)\cos(x) Substitute this into the equation: 2sin(x)cos(x)=sin(x)2\sin(x)\cos(x) = \sin(x)


Step 2: Factorize

Rearrange to factor out sin(x)\sin(x): sin(x)(2cos(x)1)=0\sin(x)\left(2\cos(x) - 1\right) = 0

This gives two cases:

  1. sin(x)=0\sin(x) = 0
  2. 2cos(x)1=02\cos(x) - 1 = 0

Step 3: Solve Each Case

Case 1: sin(x)=0\sin(x) = 0

sin(x)=0    x=0,π,2π\sin(x) = 0 \implies x = 0, \pi, 2\pi Since the interval is 0x<2π0 \leq x < 2\pi, we have: x=0,πx = 0, \pi

Case 2: 2cos(x)1=02\cos(x) - 1 = 0

Solve for cos(x)\cos(x): cos(x)=12\cos(x) = \frac{1}{2} This occurs at: x=π3,5π3x = \frac{\pi}{3}, \frac{5\pi}{3}


Step 4: Combine Solutions

The solutions for xx in the interval [0,2π)[0, 2\pi) are: x=0,π,π3,5π3x = 0, \pi, \frac{\pi}{3}, \frac{5\pi}{3}


Let me know if you'd like further clarifications or a detailed graph! Here's how you can expand this understanding:

  1. How does factoring help simplify trigonometric equations?
  2. What are the key trigonometric identities needed for solving equations like this?
  3. Can you use a unit circle to verify these solutions graphically?
  4. Why do we exclude x=2πx = 2\pi in this interval?
  5. What would change if the interval were 0x2π0 \leq x \leq 2\pi?

Tip: Always verify your solutions within the given interval by substituting them back into the original equation.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Trigonometric Identities
Equations

Formulas

sin(2x) = 2sin(x)cos(x)
sin(x) = 0
cos(x) = 1/2

Theorems

Double-angle identity
Solutions of sin and cos equations

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 11-12