Section3-1

Simplifying Trigonometric Functions

Simplifying Trig Expressions

• In this section we will use simplifying techniques, and our trig identities to simplify and rewrite expressions.

• Example: Rewrite the following in terms of a single trig function:

Identities we know

Other Identities we know

Steps to Rewriting Expressions

1. Determine Objective (How do I want to rewrite this?)

2. Find the identities that relate what we have, and what we need.

3. Substitute the identities into our problems

4. Simplify until we obtain the result.

Example:

• Rewrite the following in terms of cosx.

Example:

• Rewrite the following in terms of cosx.

Example:

• Rewrite the following in terms of sinx.

Example:

• Rewrite the following in terms of sinx.