Show that: [sin(2a)] / [1+cos(2a)] = tan(a)

We start by expanding out the double trigonometric terms (sin(2a)) using the double angle formula, giving us: [2sin(a)cos(a)] / [1+cos^2(a) - sin^2(a)]. Next we spot that on the denominator (bottom half of fraction) that 1 - sin^2(a) = cos^2(a), and so we can rearrange the demoninator to equal 2cos^2(a).  So now we have the expression: [2sin(a)cos(a)] / [2cos^2(a)]. When written as a fraction in vertical form (normal way rather than on screen here), we can see that we are able to cancel the constants of 2 and a cos(a) term on top and bottom, leaving us with: sin(a) / cos(a), which is equal by definition to tan(a), and so we have succeeded.

Answered by George H. Maths tutor

8106 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

y=20x-x^2-2x^3. Curve has a stationary point at the point M where x=-2. Find the x coordinate of the other stationary point of the curve and the value of the second derivative of both of these point, hence determining their nature.


A cubic polynomial has the form p(z)=z^3+bz^2+cz+d, z is Complex and b, c, d are Real. Given that a solution of p(z)=0 is z1=3-2i and that p(-2)=0, find the values of b, c and d.


d/dx ( sin x) ^3


Find the shortest distance between the line L: x=1+t, y=1+2t, z=1-t and the point A: (2,3,4)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences