Solve the equation cos2x - 5cosx = 2

cos2x= 2cos^2x - 1

2cos^2x - 1 - 5cosx = 2

Let cosx = y

2y^2 - 5y - 3 = 0

(2y + 1)(y + 3) = 0

y = -1/2 or -3

cosx = -1/2 or -3

x = 120 degrees

PV
Answered by Pearl V. Maths tutor

13520 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

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


differentiate 3x^56


What is a complex number?


How do you integrate ln(x)?


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