I've tried these problems many times but none of my answers seem correct...can someone help?
2cos^2ɵ + cosɵ - 1= 0
and
(cotɵ)(cscɵ - 1/2) = 0
Make a substitution. Let x = cos2t(theta) and you'll have
2x^2 + x-1 = 0
Then factor:
(2x -1)(x +1)=0
x = 1/2 or x = -1
so cost = 1/2 or cost = -1
t = 60 degrees, 120 degrees
or
t = 180 degrees.
In the second one, let cotx = 0 and cscx = 1/2 and now solve for the values that make those equations true.