Trigonometric Equations

Solving trig equations use both the reference angles you've memorized and a lot of the algebra learned.

Solutions of trigonometric equations may also be found by examining the sign of the trig value and determining the proper quadrant(s) for that value. 

Be prepared to solve sin(x) + 2 = 3 for 0° < x < 360°

Just as with linear equations, I'll first isolate the variable-containing term:   sin(x) + 2 = 3   sin(x) = 1

Now use the reference angles memorized:   x = 90°

Solve tan2(x) + 3 = 0 for 0° < x < 360°

There's the temptation to quickly recall that the tangent of 60° involves the square root of 3 and slap down an answer, but this equation doesn't actually have a solution:tan2(x) = –3

How can the square of a trig function evaluate to a negative number? It can't, no solution

Math Joke of the week:

Q: What did one Calculus book say to the other?
A: Don't bother me I've got my own problems!