Proving the trigonometric identity: (1 + tan²x)(1 - sin²x) = 1
This article will provide a step-by-step proof of the trigonometric identity: (1 + tan²x)(1 - sin²x) = 1.
Understanding the Identities Involved
Before diving into the proof, let's recall some fundamental trigonometric identities:
- Pythagorean Identity: cos²x + sin²x = 1
- Tangent Identity: tan x = sin x / cos x
Proof:
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Start with the left-hand side of the equation: (1 + tan²x)(1 - sin²x)
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Substitute tan²x with sin²x/cos²x using the tangent identity: (1 + sin²x/cos²x)(1 - sin²x)
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Simplify by finding a common denominator for the first term: ((cos²x + sin²x)/cos²x)(1 - sin²x)
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Apply the Pythagorean Identity (cos²x + sin²x = 1) to simplify the first term: (1/cos²x)(1 - sin²x)
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Distribute the 1/cos²x: (1/cos²x) - (sin²x/cos²x)
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Recognize that sin²x/cos²x is equal to tan²x: (1/cos²x) - tan²x
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Use the Pythagorean Identity again (1 + tan²x = sec²x) to rewrite the first term: sec²x - tan²x
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Finally, apply the Pythagorean Identity (sec²x - tan²x = 1) to obtain the right-hand side of the equation: 1
Therefore, we have proven that (1 + tan²x)(1 - sin²x) = 1.
Conclusion
This proof demonstrates the interconnectedness of various trigonometric identities. By applying these identities in a systematic manner, we can simplify complex expressions and arrive at desired results. This particular identity is valuable in manipulating trigonometric equations and solving problems involving trigonometric functions.