Question

Solve the equation sin(2t)+cost=1/4 on the interval [0, 2pi]. Express answer(s) to three decimal places.

Answer 1

Would I graph y=sin(2t)+cost an y=1/4 an set the plotting range to x= 0, 7 an y= -1,4

Answer 2

You could do that. Is this a problem where you have to show work, because there is also an algebraic method to solving this problem.

Answer 3

I don't think that is right. It keeps coming out as a straight line.

Answer 4

Yes, I see that now that I've graphed it as well.
Algebraically, you should use trig identities to simplify sin(2t) + cos(t).
Give me a moment to dig out my list so I can find the right ones to use. It's been a while.

Answer 5

sin2x = 2sinxcosx, but I'm not sure that's helpful in this context.

The problem here seems to be that the equation doesn't ever equal 1/4 in the interval.