Proving the Trigonometric Identity: sin^2x n cot^2x cos^2x n tan^2x n 1
Proving the Trigonometric Identity: sin2x n cot2x cos2x n tan2x n 1
In this article, we will delve into the intricate process of proving a specific trigonometric identity: sin2x n cot2x cos2x n tan2x n 1. This identity involves a combination of fundamental trigonometric functions and requires a methodical approach to verify its validity. This process is crucial for understanding more complex trigonometric relationships and will be presented in a clear, step-by-step manner.
Introduction to Trigonometric Functions
Before diving into the proof, it is essential to understand the definitions of the trigonometric functions involved:
sin2x sin2x cot2x (cos2x) / (sin2x) tan2x (sin2x) / (cos2x)These definitions will be pivotal in simplifying the trigonometric expression.
Left Side Expansion
Let's begin by expanding the left side of the equation. The given identity is:
sin2x n cot2x cos2x n tan2x n 1
Step 1: Expand Each Term
sin2x n cot2x cos2x n tan2xUsing the definitions of cot2x and tan2x, we get:
sin2x n cot2x sin2x n (cos2x / sin2x)
cos2x n tan2x cos2x n (sin2x / cos2x)
Step 2: Simplify the Terms
Let's simplify the expressions step by step.
For the first term:
sin2x n (cos2x / sin2x)
Multiplying the second term by sin2x gives:
sin2x n cos2x / sin2x
Multiplying both terms by sin2x and then simplifying:
sin4x / sin2x n cos2x sin2x n cos2x
For the second term:
cos2x n (sin2x / cos2x)
Multiplying the second term by cos2x gives:
cos2x n sin2x / cos2x
Multiplying both terms by cos2x and then simplifying:
cos4x / cos2x n sin2x cos2x n sin2x
Combining the Results
Combining both simplified terms, we get:
sin2x n cos2x cos2x n sin2x
Further simplification yields:
(sin2x cos2x) n (cos2x sin2x)
Using the Pythagorean identity sin2x cos2x 1, we have:
1 n (1) 1 n
Right Side Verification
The right side of the equation is simply n 1. Thus, we can see that both sides of the equation are equal.
Final Result
Therefore, we conclude that the identity holds true:
sin2x n cot2x cos2x n tan2x n 1
Conclusion
Understanding and proving such trigonometric identities is fundamental for advanced mathematics and engineering applications. The step-by-step approach in this article provides a clear explanation of the proof.