Math Problem Statement

Solve the trigonometric equation: cos^2(θ) + 3sin^2(θ) = 3 - 2cos^2(θ).

Solution

The equation in the image is:

cos2θ+3sin2θ=32cos2θ\cos^2 \theta + 3 \sin^2 \theta = 3 - 2 \cos^2 \theta

Let's solve this step by step.

Step 1: Simplify the equation

Start by moving all terms involving cos2θ\cos^2 \theta and sin2θ\sin^2 \theta to one side:

cos2θ+3sin2θ+2cos2θ=3\cos^2 \theta + 3 \sin^2 \theta + 2 \cos^2 \theta = 3

Simplify the terms involving cos2θ\cos^2 \theta:

3cos2θ+3sin2θ=33 \cos^2 \theta + 3 \sin^2 \theta = 3

Step 2: Use the Pythagorean identity

We know that:

sin2θ+cos2θ=1\sin^2 \theta + \cos^2 \theta = 1

So replace sin2θ+cos2θ\sin^2 \theta + \cos^2 \theta with 1:

3(sin2θ+cos2θ)=33 (\sin^2 \theta + \cos^2 \theta) = 3

Thus:

3×1=33 \times 1 = 3

This equation holds true, which means the original equation is an identity and is true for all values of θ\theta.

Conclusion:

The given equation is valid for all θ\theta, meaning it is an identity.

Would you like a deeper explanation on any of the steps? Here are some related questions to explore:

  1. What is the Pythagorean identity in trigonometry?
  2. How can we solve trigonometric equations with multiple terms involving sine and cosine?
  3. What are trigonometric identities and how are they derived?
  4. Can identities like this be graphed? What would the graph of this equation look like?
  5. How do you prove a trigonometric identity step-by-step?

Tip: When dealing with trigonometric identities, always try to recognize basic identities like the Pythagorean identity, as they can greatly simplify the equation.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Trigonometric Identities

Formulas

cos²(θ) + sin²(θ) = 1
Basic trigonometric identities

Theorems

Pythagorean Identity

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12