Prove the identity (4cos(2x))/(1+cos(2x)) = 4-2sec^2(x)

Write down the formulas involving cos2x and select the one which involves only cosine, this is because cosine (or derivations of it) is the only trigonometric function in this question. Substitute the chosen identity which is cos(2x) = 2cos^2(x)-1 into the left handside (LHS) of the equation which should give you: (8cos^2(x) - 4)/(2cos^2(x))   This can be cancelled down to 4-2/cos^2(x) Manipulate the right handside (RHS) of the equation by using the identity: sec(x) = 1/cos(x). This should give the RHS to be 4-2/cos^2(x) which = LHS. Make it obvious to the examiner that the sides of the are equal by equating them at the end so you don't lose marks!

TN
Answered by Tegan N. Maths tutor

14143 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Given y = 2sin(θ) and x = 3cos(θ) find dy/dx.


find the integral of y=x^2 +sin^2(x) with respect to x between the limits 0 and pi


Differentiate the equation y = (2x+5)^2 using the chain rule to determine the x coordinate of a stationary point on the curve.


For the function f(x) = 4x^3 -3x^2 - 6x, find a) All points where df/dx = 0 and b) State if these points are maximum or minimum points.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning