Question

Can somebody help me solve this one?
sinx*cos³x + sin³x*cosx = 1/2

I've got:

cos²x(sinx*cosx) + sin²x(sinx*cosx) = 1/2
(sin²x + cos²x)(sinx*cosx) = 1/2

Since sin²x + cos²x = 1

sinx*cosx = 1/2

How should I proceed now?

Answer 1

P.S. \[0 \le x < 2\]

Answer 2

Use identity of 2sinxcosx = sin2x

Answer 3

I tried, but then I got sin 2x = 1/2, so what?

Answer 4

I mean sin2x = 1

Answer 5

First, you would get sin2x =1, not 1/2. Agreed?

Answer 6

Yes

Answer 7

Ok, so you know where sin m = 1, and that's at pi/2 + 2kpi. Good so far?

Answer 8

Okay but keep in mind that \[0 \le x < 2\pi\]

Answer 9

np. Your FIRST value is pi/4 because sin m = sin 2x where m = pi/2 so x = pi/4 You SECOND and only other value is at x = (5/4)pi because when that is doubled, you are right back at pi/2

Answer 10

So, those are the only 2 values for x.

Answer 11

Hmmm, let me see if I get this

Answer 12

Go ahead, ask questions. I'll try to clarify, but it looks like you already understand most of this.

Answer 13

I don't understand why x = (5/4)pi is also a solution

Answer 14

3/2*pi should also be a value for m, right?

Answer 15

Hmmm nevermind my last question

Answer 16

np. After I show you, I think you'll realize that you already knew the answer, which is good, because you'll get the answers on your own then. If you take (5/4)pi as "x" and multiply by 2, you will get (5/2)pi, which is 2pi + pi/2, so you "cycled" back to pi/2 by going around the circle once and then went pi/2.

(3/2)pi will not be an answer because doubled it's 3pi which is 180 degrees and you have sin 180 = 0.

Answer 17

And how did you find out 5/4pi is an answer? You just guessed?

Answer 18

The trick is why did I work "backwards" and select (5/4)pi and then double it to "magically" arrive at pi/2, going once around the circle. If that's how I worked it, THAT would be confusing, so I'll explain how I did it. Sometimes you can work "backwards" to get an intuitive idea of where to go, but that doesn't give you the "how to get the answer". You can be intuitive and work backward to "see what you want" and what is really there at the same time. You then have to work forward, the logical way, so that you can "prove" what needs to be proved. So here goes...

Answer 19

We know that we have the constraint of 0 <= x <= 2pi. Good. However, our final equation is sin2x = 1. The left side 2x tells us that as x goes from 0 to 2pi, then 2x goes from 0 to 4 pi. Lightbulb time! We go around the circle TWICE! That's the key! So, before resloving x and 2x, we know we have sin (something) = 1 at pi/2 and 5pi/2 because we supposed to twice around. Again, that's the key. Twice around. So, look for halves of those values because x is doubled. So you start intuitively, but back it all up logically. Ask more questions.

Answer 20

Hmmm but actually the constraint is 0<= x < 2pi

Answer 21

That's fine. You'll notice that x = pi/4 and x = 5pi/4 and both of those ARE less than 2pi. It doesn't matter that 2x = 5pi/2 > 2pi. The restriction is on x which we are working with. The restriction is not on 2x.

Answer 22

The "restriction" for 2x is that 2x has to be less than 4pi, not 2pi.

Answer 23

Believe me, I can understand how this could be a little disturbing at first. Keep going over it, and you will see it. You are not expected to see it immediately, but I'm positive about this. If it helps, think of 2x as another variable of think of 2x as a f(x). Or think "twice around" for 2x is "once around" for x.

Answer 24

Hmmm I think I get it. But how would I go about writing that? I left at sin 2x = 1. So let 2x = m and we have m = pi/2. Therefore, 2x = pi/2 and x = pi/4.
What about explaining how I got 5/4pi and 5/2pi? I'd need to prove that in an exam, right?

Answer 25

The way I'd think about it if I put myself in the position of seeing it for the first time would be to say 1) where is sin m = 1? It's at pi/2 and all 2kpi additions to that. 2) I'd know to concentrate on pi/2 right off, but what about those other potential values? Are they "within range". 3) You'd have to relate 0 <= x <= 2pi and 0 <= 2x <= 4pi because that is like a function with y = 2x. You get to use all legitimate values of "Y". And you HAVE to or else you'll get only half credit for your answer. Think of how the sine function is periodic and repeats. That's your conceptual ace in the hole.

Answer 26

Another help: your first value was sin pi/2 = 1, but that's sin 2(pi/4) = 1 for your "x" value because you are working with 2x, so that is your intuitive inclination to consider other values. You had to double something a lot smaller.

Answer 27

You have to mull things like this over. But don't worry, they expand your mind, they really do. Just be comfortable with it and then it flows.

Answer 28

Wow, you're a great teacher. I get it now, thanks! I always have a little trouble considering values that aren't so apparent at first.

Answer 29

This problem is like my avatar. See how it is cyclic and goes offshing point? Very Zen!

Answer 30

that is off to a vanishing point.

Answer 31

You're a very good student, I can tell!

Answer 32

Thanks! The function part is very interesting, I didn't know it was okay to think of the restrictions like that!

Answer 33

Math is way cool. Intuitive and analytical at the same time!

Answer 34

That's true. I'm always thinking of how math is all about creativity.

Answer 35

That's it! There is an absolutely great biography about John Nash and his math exploits. It was made into a good movie called "A Beautiful Mind". The written account is way better though. All about the creative thinking process.

Answer 36

I'll definitely look it up! Thanks!

Answer 37

You'll love it I guarantee it!

Answer 38

Watch the movie first if you don't have a lot of time, though. Actually a great movie.

Answer 39

So gotta go, but wonderful working with you and thx for the recognition medal!

Answer 40

Goodbye! Thanks and keep in touch!

Answer 41

Will do!