Math Problem Statement

If sec x = -3/2 and tan x > 0, what is the value of sin x?

Solution

We are given that secx=32\sec x = -\frac{3}{2} and tanx>0\tan x > 0, and we are tasked with finding the value of sinx\sin x.

Step 1: Use the identity for secant

Recall that secx=1cosx\sec x = \frac{1}{\cos x}, so: secx=32    cosx=23.\sec x = -\frac{3}{2} \implies \cos x = -\frac{2}{3}.

Step 2: Use the Pythagorean identity

The Pythagorean identity states: sin2x+cos2x=1.\sin^2 x + \cos^2 x = 1. Substituting cosx=23\cos x = -\frac{2}{3}: sin2x+(23)2=1,\sin^2 x + \left( -\frac{2}{3} \right)^2 = 1, sin2x+49=1.\sin^2 x + \frac{4}{9} = 1. Solve for sin2x\sin^2 x: sin2x=149=9949=59.\sin^2 x = 1 - \frac{4}{9} = \frac{9}{9} - \frac{4}{9} = \frac{5}{9}. Thus: sinx=±59=±53.\sin x = \pm \sqrt{\frac{5}{9}} = \pm \frac{\sqrt{5}}{3}.

Step 3: Determine the correct sign of sinx\sin x

We are given that tanx>0\tan x > 0. Since tanx=sinxcosx\tan x = \frac{\sin x}{\cos x}, and cosx=23\cos x = -\frac{2}{3} (negative), sinx\sin x must also be negative for tanx\tan x to be positive. Therefore: sinx=53.\sin x = -\frac{\sqrt{5}}{3}.

Thus, the value of sinx\sin x is 53-\frac{\sqrt{5}}{3}.

Would you like further clarification on any steps?

Here are 5 related questions to expand your understanding:

  1. How do you find the value of tanx\tan x given secx\sec x and sinx\sin x?
  2. What are the basic trigonometric identities involving sin\sin, cos\cos, and tan\tan?
  3. How can you determine the quadrant in which an angle lies based on the signs of trigonometric functions?
  4. Why is it necessary to check the sign of tanx\tan x when solving for sinx\sin x?
  5. What is the significance of the Pythagorean identity in solving trigonometric equations?

Tip: Always check the sign of trigonometric functions by considering the quadrant in which the angle lies, using the given conditions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Trigonometric Identities
Secant
Sine
Tangent
Pythagorean Identity

Formulas

sec x = 1/cos x
sin^2 x + cos^2 x = 1
tan x = sin x / cos x

Theorems

Pythagorean Identity
Quadrant-based Sign Determination

Suitable Grade Level

High School