Graph each expression and use the graph to make a conjecture, predicting what might be an identity. Then verify your conjecture algebraically. (cos x sin 2x)/1 + cos 2x)
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Step 1: Begin by understanding the expression \( \frac{\cos x \sin 2x}{1 + \cos 2x} \). Recognize that \( \sin 2x \) and \( \cos 2x \) are double angle identities: \( \sin 2x = 2 \sin x \cos x \) and \( \cos 2x = \cos^2 x - \sin^2 x \).
Step 2: Substitute the double angle identities into the expression: \( \frac{\cos x (2 \sin x \cos x)}{1 + (\cos^2 x - \sin^2 x)} \).
Step 3: Simplify the expression: \( \frac{2 \cos^2 x \sin x}{1 + \cos^2 x - \sin^2 x} \).
Step 4: Consider simplifying the denominator further using the Pythagorean identity \( \cos^2 x + \sin^2 x = 1 \), which might help in simplifying the expression.
Step 5: Graph the expression using a graphing tool or software to observe its behavior. Look for patterns or symmetries that might suggest an identity. Then, verify any conjecture by simplifying the expression algebraically using trigonometric identities.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Trigonometric Identities
Trigonometric identities are equations that involve trigonometric functions and are true for all values of the variables involved. Common identities include the Pythagorean identities, angle sum and difference identities, and double angle formulas. Understanding these identities is crucial for simplifying expressions and verifying conjectures in trigonometry.
Graphing trigonometric functions involves plotting the values of sine, cosine, and other trigonometric functions over a specified interval. This visual representation helps in identifying patterns, periodicity, and potential identities. By analyzing the graphs of the given expression, one can make conjectures about its behavior and relationships with other trigonometric functions.
Algebraic verification is the process of proving that a conjectured identity holds true by manipulating the expressions algebraically. This involves using known trigonometric identities and algebraic techniques to transform one side of the equation into the other. This step is essential to confirm the validity of the conjecture made from the graph.