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Solving Trigonometric Equations

Remember: The calculator defaults to Radian measure.

Problem:
Find all values of x for which
1

Since this problem states the interval in terms of radians,
the answer will also need to be expressed in radians.

Let's look at two possible solution methods.  The first method will work ONLY with Radians.  The second method will work with Degrees and then convert back to Radians for the final answer.  Pick the method with which you feel most comfortable.
 

Method Using Only Radian:

You are going to graph each side of the equation and look for all of the points of intersection within the given interval. 

Set the MODE to Radian
2

Set Y1 = left side of equation.
Set Y2 = right side of equation.
3

Start by hitting ZOOM #7 ZTrig.
Adjust WINDOW for
Xmin = 0 and Xmax = 25 
4


 

Use the INTERSECT option.
2nd TRACE (CALC) #5 intersect6

To express this answer in terms of 33,
go to Home Screen and hit x ENTER.
Divide by 34.  Convert to fraction.
MATH #1 ►Frac.  ENTER.
7

Answer:
8

 Now, find the second point of intersection!

9


Use the INTERSECT option again.
2nd TRACE (CALC) #5 intersect10

To express this answer in terms of 35,
go to Home Screen and hit x ENTER.
Divide by 37.  Convert to fraction.
MATH #1 ►Frac.  ENTER.
11

Answer:
12

 

 

Method Using Degree and Converting Back to Radian:

Again, you are going to graph each side of the equation and look for all of the points of intersection within the given interval.   
For this method, you must be aware that the interval in degrees is 0 < x < 360.

Set the MODE to Degree
13

Set Y1 = left side of equation.
Set Y2 = right side of equation.
14

Start by hitting ZOOM #7 ZTrig.
Adjust WINDOW for Xmin = 0
and Xmax = 360 
15


 

Use the INTERSECT option.
2nd TRACE (CALC) #5 intersect16

To convert to radians (in terms of 66),
go to Home Screen and hit x/180  ENTER.  Convert to fraction.
MATH #1 ►Frac.  ENTER.
17

Answer:
18

Now, find the second point of intersection!

19


Use the INTERSECT option again.
2nd TRACE (CALC) #5 intersect20

To convert to radians (in terms of 66),
go to Home Screen and hit x /180
ENTER.  Convert to fraction.
MATH #1 ►Frac.  ENTER.
21

Answer:
22

 


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