Skip to main content
Ch. 3 - Trigonometric Identities and Equations
Blitzer - Trigonometry 3rd Edition
Blitzer3rd EditionTrigonometryISBN: 9780137316601Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 3, Problem 3.5.55

In Exercises 53–62, solve each equation on the interval [0, 2𝝅). (2 cos x + √ 3) (2 sin x + 1) = 0

Verified step by step guidance
1
Recognize that the equation is a product of two factors equal to zero: \((2 \cos x + \sqrt{3})(2 \sin x + 1) = 0\). According to the zero product property, set each factor equal to zero separately.
Set the first factor equal to zero: \(2 \cos x + \sqrt{3} = 0\). Solve for \(\cos x\) to get \(\cos x = -\frac{\sqrt{3}}{2}\).
Set the second factor equal to zero: \(2 \sin x + 1 = 0\). Solve for \(\sin x\) to get \(\sin x = -\frac{1}{2}\).
Find all values of \(x\) in the interval \([0, 2\pi)\) that satisfy \(\cos x = -\frac{\sqrt{3}}{2}\). Recall the unit circle values where cosine equals this value and note the corresponding angles.
Find all values of \(x\) in the interval \([0, 2\pi)\) that satisfy \(\sin x = -\frac{1}{2}\). Use the unit circle to identify the angles where sine equals this value within the given interval.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Video duration:
10m
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Zero Product Property

This property states that if the product of two factors equals zero, then at least one of the factors must be zero. In the given equation, (2 cos x + √3)(2 sin x + 1) = 0, we set each factor equal to zero separately to find possible solutions for x.
Recommended video:
05:40
Introduction to Dot Product

Solving Basic Trigonometric Equations

To solve equations like 2 cos x + √3 = 0 or 2 sin x + 1 = 0, isolate the trigonometric function and find the angle(s) x within the interval [0, 2π) that satisfy the equation. This involves using inverse sine or cosine functions and considering the unit circle.
Recommended video:
4:34
How to Solve Linear Trigonometric Equations

Interval Restriction and Unit Circle

The solutions must lie within the interval [0, 2π), representing one full rotation on the unit circle. Understanding the unit circle helps identify all angles where sine or cosine take specific values, ensuring all valid solutions are found within the given domain.
Recommended video:
06:11
Introduction to the Unit Circle