write the sum cos(x)+cos(2x)+...+cos(nx) as a quotient only involving sine and cosine functions

We can write this sum S as Re(e^ix+e^2ix+...+e^nix), we now have a finite geometric series, which we know the formula for.Have, S = Re( e^ix(1-e^inx)/(1-e^ix)) - Now factoring numerator and denominator to look like complex formula for sine function we get,S = Re( e^ixe^inx/2(e^-inx/2-e^inx/2)/(e^ix/2(e^-ix/2-e^ix/2))) = Re(e^i(n/2+1/2)xsin(nx/2)/sin(x/2))Now since n is an integer and x is an element of the reals taking the real part gives,S = sin(nx/2)cos(((n+1)/2)x)/sin(x/2)

Answered by Further Mathematics tutor

5042 Views

See similar Further Mathematics A Level tutors

Related Further Mathematics A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do you calculate the cross product of two vectors?


A curve has equation y=(2-x)(1+x)+3, A line passes through the point (2,3) and the curve at a point with x coordinate 2+h. Find the gradient of the line. Then use that answer to find the gradient of the curve at (2,3), stating the value of the gradient


How to determine the modulus of a complex number?


How do I find and plot the roots of a polynomial with complex roots on an Argand diagram? e.g. f(z) =z^3 -3z^2 + z + 5 where one of the roots is known to be 2+i


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning