Find a solution to sec^(2)(x)+2tan(x) = 0

This question is a quadratic equation in hiding. The first step to solving this would be to expand sec^(2)(x) into 1 + tan^(2)(x) as they are equivalent. This can be derived by dividing sin^(2)(x) + cos^(2)(x) = 1 by cos^(2)(x). This will give us the equation tan^(2)(x) + 2tan(x) +1 = 0. If tan(x) is set to equal z, we end up with the equation z^(2)+2z+1 = 0, which gives us the solution z = -1 when the quadratic formula is used. If we substitute tan(x) back in, we end up with tan(x) = -1, which gives us the solution x = -45 when our calculators are used.

MB
Answered by Mohamed B. Maths tutor

5588 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Given that A(sin θ + cos θ) + B(cos θ − sin θ) ≡ 4 sin θ, find the values of the constants A and B.


Solve for 0<=θ<π, the equation sin3θ-(sqrt3)cosθ=0 (C2)


Solve 4log₂(2)+log₂(x)=3


Find all the solutions of 2 cos 2x = 1 – 2 sinx in the interval 0 ≤ x ≤ 360°.


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