7.

TRIGONOMETRIC
R AT I O S , I D E N T I T I E S
A N D E Q U AT I O N S
1. INTRODUCTION
The equations involving trigonometric functions of unknown angles are known as Trigonometric equations e.g.
cos
= θ 0,cos2 θ − 4 cos
= θ 1,sin2 θ + sin
= θ 2cos2 θ − 4 sin
= θ 1.

2. TRIGONOMETRIC FUNCTIONS (CIRCULAR FUNCTIONS)

Function Domain Range

sin A R [–1, 1]
cos A R [-1, 1]
tan A R − ( 2n + 1 ) π / 2,n ∈ I  R= ( − ∞, ∞ )
cosec A R − nπ,n ∈ I  ( −∞, −1 ∪ 1, ∞ )
sec A
{
R − ( 2n + 1 ) π / 2,n ∈ I } ( −∞, −1 ∪ 1, ∞ )
cot A R − nπ,n ∈ I  ( −∞, ∞ )
We find, sinA ≤ 1, cos A ≤ 1,sec A ≥ 1 or sec A ≤ −1 and cosec A ≥ 1or cosec A ≤ −1

2.1 Some Basic Formulae of Trigonometric Functions Y

(a) sin2 A + cos2 A =

1. II quadrant I quadrant

(b) sec2 A − tan2 A =

1 cosec }
only sin 
are + ve All t-ratios are + ve

2 2
(c) cosec A − co t A =
1 X’ X
(d) sinA
= cosec A tanA
= cot A cos
= A sec A 1 III quadrant IV quadrant

A system of rectangular coordinate axes divide a plane into four }

only tan 
cot 
are + ve only cos 
sec } are + ve

quadrants. An angle θ lies in one and only one of these quadrants.

The signs of the trigonometric ratios in the four quadrants are shown in Y’
Fig 7.1. Figure 7.1
7 . 2 | Trigonometric Ratios, Identities and Equations

MASTERJEE CONCEPTS

A crude way to remember the sign is “Add Sugar to Coffee”. This implies the 1st letter of each word gives
you the trigonometric functions with a +ve sign.
Eg. Add-1st word ⇒ 1st quadrant 1st letter=A ⇒ All are positive to-3rd word ⇒ 3rd quadrant 1st letter-t
⇒ tan θ (cot θ ) are positive.
Ravi Vooda (JEE 2009, AIR 71)

Sine, cosine and tangent of some angles less than 90º:

Trigonometric 0º 15º 18º 30º 36º

ratios
sin 0
6− 2 5 −1 1 10 − 2 5
4 4 2 4

cos 1
6+ 2 10 + 2 5 3 5 +1
4 4 2 4

tan 0
2− 3 25 − 10 5 1
5−2 5
5 3
37º 45º 53º 60º 90º
sin ≈ 3/5 1 ≈ 4/5 1
3
2
2

cos ≈ 4/5 1 ≈ 3/5 0

1
2 2

tan ≈ 3/4 1 ≈ 4/3 Not defined

3

Illustration 1: Prove the following identities:

(i) (1 + tan A ) +  1 + tan1 A  =

2
2 2
1
sin A − sin 4
A

2 (JEE MAIN)
1 + tan2 θ
 1 − tan θ 
(ii) =  
1 + cot θ  1 − cot θ 
2

Sol: (i) Simply by using Pythagorean and product identities, we can solve these problems.
 1 
(i) L.H.S. = (1 + tan2 A) +  1 +  = sec A + (1 + cot A)
2 2

 tan2 A 
1 1 sin2 A + cos2 A 
=sec2 A + cosec2=
A= + =  sin2 θ + cos2 θ 1
cos2 A sin2 A sin2 A.cos2 A  
 M a them a tics | 7.3

1 1
= = = R.H.S.  cos2 θ = 1 − sin2 θ 
2
(
sin A 1 − sin A 2
) sin A − sin4 A
2  

Hence proved.
1 + tan2 θ sec2 θ sin2 θ
(ii) L.H.S. = = = = tan2 θ  … (i)
1 + cot θ cosec θ cos2 θ
2 2
2 2
    2
2
 1 − tan θ   1 − tan θ   1 − tan θ   1 − tan θ 
Now, R.H.S. = =  =    =  . tan θ  = tan2 θ  … (ii)
 ( )
 1 − cot θ  1 − 1   tan θ − 1   − 1 − tan θ 
    
 tan θ   tan θ 
From (i) and (ii), clearly, L.H.S. = R.H.S. Proved.

Illustration 2: Prove the following identities: (JEE MAIN)

sin2 A cos2 A 1
(i) =
+ = − 2 sec2 A cosec2 A − 2
2 2 2 2
cos A sin A sin A cos A

(ii) sec4 A (1 – sin4 A) – 2 tan2 A = 1

Sol: Use algebra and appropriate identities to solve these problems.

(sin A ) + (cos A )
2 2
2 2
sin2 A
cos2 A sin4 A + cos4 A + 2sin2 A cos2 A − 2sin2 A.cos2 A
(i) += =
cos2 A sin2 A sin2 A cos2 A sin2 A cos2 A

(sin )
2
2
A + cos2 A − 2sin2 A cos2 A 1 − 2sin2 A cos2 A
= =
sin2 A cos2 A sin2 A cos2 A

1 2sin2 A cos2 A
= − = sec2 A cosec2 A – 2 = R.H.S.  Proved.
2 2 2 2
sin A cos A sin A cos A
sin4 A
(ii) L.H.S. = sec4 A (1 – sin4 A) – 2 tan2 A = sec 4 A − − 2 tan2 A = sec 4 A − tan4 A − 2 tan2 A
4
cos A

( )
2
= 1 + tan2 A − tan4 A − 2 tan2 A = 1 + 2 tan2 A + tan4 A – tan4 A – 2 tan2 A = 1 = R.H.S.  Proved.

Illustration 3: Prove the following identities:

1 + cos α 1 + sin α
(i) = cosecα + cot α (ii) = secα + tan α  (JEE MAIN)
1 − cos α 1 − sin α

Sol: By rationalizing L.H.S. we will get required result.

(1 + cos α )
2
1 + cos α 1 + cos α 1 + cos α
(i) L.H.S. = = × =
1 − cos α 1 − cos α 1 + cos α 1 − cos2 α

(1 + cos α=
)
2
1 + cos α 1 cos α
= = + = cosecα + cot
= α R.H.S.  Proved.
sin α 2 sin α sin α sin α

(1 + sin α=)(1 + sin α ) (1 + sin α ) (1 + sin α )

2 2
1 + sin α
(ii) L.H.S. =
= =
1 − sin α (1 − sin α )(1 + sin α ) 1 − sin2 α cos2 α
 7 . 4 | Trigonometric Ratios, Identities and Equations

1 + sin α 1 sin α
= = + = sec α + tan=
α R.H.S.  Proved.
cos α cos α cos α

Illustration 4: In each of the following identities, show that:

cot Α + tanB sin2 A − sin2 B
(i) = cot A. tanB (ii) tan2 A − tan2 B =  (JEE ADVANCED)
cotB + tanA cos2 A cos2 B

Sol: Apply tangent and cotangent identity.

cos A sinB cos A cosB + sinA sinB

+
cot A + tanB sinA cosB sinA cosB
(i) L.H.S. = = =
cotB + tanA cosB sinA cos A cosB + sinA sinB
+
sinB cos A sinBcos A

sinBcos A  cos A  sinB 

= =  =  cot
= A tanB R.H.S.  Proved.
sinA cosB  sinA  cosB 

sin2 A sin2 B sin2 A cos2 B − cos2 A sin2 B

(ii) L.H.S. = tan2 A − tan2 B = − =
cos2 A cos2 B cos2 A cos2 B

=
( ) ( )
sin2 A 1 − sin2 B − 1 − sin2 A sin2 B
=
sin2 A − sin2 A sin2 B − sin2 B + sin2 A sin2 B
=
sin2 A − sin2 B
= R.H.S.  Proved.
cos2 A cos2 B cos2 A cos2 B cos2 A cos2 B

1 1 1 1
Illustration 5: Prove the following identities: − = −  (JEE ADVANCED)
cosecθ − cot θ sin θ sin θ cosecθ + cot θ

1 1 2
Sol: By rearranging terms we will get + = , and then using Pythagorean identity
cosecθ − cot θ cosecθ + cot θ sin θ
we can solve this problem.

1 1 1 1
We have, − = −
cosecθ − cot θ sin θ sin θ cosecθ + cot θ
1 1 1 1 1 1 2
⇒ + = + ⇒ + =
cosecθ − cot θ cosecθ + cot θ sin θ sin θ cosecθ − cot θ cosecθ + cot θ sin θ

1 1 cosecθ + cot θ + cosecθ − cot θ

Now, L.H.S. = + =
cosecθ − cot θ cosecθ + cot θ ( cosecθ − cot θ )( cosecθ + cot θ )

2cosecθ  cosec2 θ − cot2 θ =1

=
(cosec θ − cot θ)
2 2  

2cosecθ 2  1 
= = = R.H.S.  cosecθ =   Proved.
1 sin θ  sin θ 

Alternative Method

R.H.S
=
1
−
1
= cosec θ −
( cosec θ − cot θ )
sin θ cosec θ + cot θ cosec2 θ − cot2 θ
= cosec θ − cosec θ + cot θ
= cot θ  Proved.
 M a them a tics | 7.5

Illustration 6: Prove that:

(i)
(1 + cot A + tanA )( sinA − cos A ) = sin2 A.cos2 A
sec3 A − cosec3 A
sinA cos A
(ii) + 1
= (JEE ADVANCED)
sec A + tanA − 1 cosecA + cot A − 1

Sol: Using algebra and appropriate identities, we can prove this.

(i) L.H.S. =
(1 + cot A + tanA )( sinA − cos A )
sec3 A − cosec3 A

 cos A sinA 
1 + +  ( sinA − cos A )
sinA cos A 
= 
( sec A − cosecA ) ( sec
( )
 a3 − b3 = ( a − b ) a2 + ab + b2 
2
A + sec A cosec A + cosec A 2
)  

(sinA cos A + cos 2

)
A + sin2 A ( sinA − cos A )  sinA
( sinA cos A + 1)  sinA −
cos A


sinA cos A   cos A sinA cos A
= =
( sec A − cosecA )  2 + cos A1sinA + 12  ( sec A − cosecA )  sin A + sinA
 1   2
cos A + cos A 
2

 cos A sin A   sin2 A cos2 A 

=
( sinA cos A + 1)( sec A − cosecA ) × sin2 A cos2 A  sin2 θ + cos2 θ =1 = sin2 A cos2 A = R.H.S.  Proved.
( sec A − cosecA )(1 + sinA cos A )  

sinA cos A
(ii) L.H.S. = +
sec A + tanA − 1 cosec A + cot A − 1

sinA cosecA + sinA cot A − sinA + cos A sec A + cos A tanA − cos A
=
( sec A + tanA − 1)( cosecA + cot A − 1)
1 + cos A − sinA + 1 + sinA − cos A 2
= =
 1 sinA  1 cos A   1 + sinA − cos A  (1 + cos A − sinA )
 + − 1 + − 1  
 cos A cos A   sinA sinA   cos A  sinA

2sinA cos A 2sinA cos A

= =
1 + ( sinA − cos A )  1 − ( sinA − cos A )  1 − ( sinA − cos A )2
  

2sinA cos A  ( a + b )( a − b ) = a2 − b2 
=
( 2 2
1 − sin A + cos A − 2sinA cos A )  

2sinA cos A 2sinA cos A 2sinA cos A

= =  sin2 θ + cos2 θ =1 = = 1= R.H.S.  Proved.
1 − (1 − 2sinA cos A ) 1 − 1 + 2sinA cos A   2sinA cos A

Illustration 7: Prove that:

 1 1  2 1 − sin2 θ.cos2 θ
 +  sin θ.cos2 θ =  (JEE ADVANCED)
 sec2 θ − cos2 θ cosec2 θ − sin2 θ  2 + sin2 θ.cos2 θ

Sol: Write L.H.S. in terms of cosine and sine functions.

 7 . 6 | Trigonometric Ratios, Identities and Equations

 1 1  2
L.H.S. =  +  sin θ.cos2 θ
 sec2 θ − cos2 θ cosec2 − θ sec2 θ 
 
 
 1 1   cos2 θ sin2 θ  2
=  +  sin2 θ cos
= 2
θ  + 2
 sin θ cos θ
 1 1  4 4
 1 − cos θ 1 − sin θ 
 − cos2 θ − sin2 θ 
 cos2 θ sin2 θ 

 
cos2 θ sin2 θ
=  + ( )( )
 sin2 θ cos2 θ  a2 − b2 = a − b a + b 
( )(
 1 + cos2 θ 1 − cos2 θ
 ) (
1 − sin2 θ 1 + sin2 θ )( ) 



 
cos2 θ sin2 θ
=  +  sin2 θ cos2 θ
( )
 1 + cos2 θ sin2 θ cos2 θ 1 + sin2 θ
 ( ) 


=
cos4 θ
+ 
=
sin4 θ (
cos4 θ 1 + sin2 θ + sin4 θ 1 + cos2 θ 
 ) ( )
2 2
1 + cos θ 1 + sin θ 2
1 + cos θ 1 + sin θ2
( )( )
=
cos4 θ + sin2 θ cos4 θ + sin4 θ + sin4 θ cos2 θ
=
(
sin4 θ + cos4 θ + sin2 θ cos2 θ cos2 θ + sin2 θ )
(1 + cos θ)(1 + sin θ)
2 2
(1 + cos θ)(1 + sin θ)
2 2

(sin θ) + (cos θ) + 2sin θ cos θ − sin θ cos θ

2 2
2 2 2 2 2 2

=
(1 + cos θ)(1 + sin θ)
2 2

=
(sin θ + cos θ) =
2 2
− sin θ cos θ 2 2
1 − sin θ cos θ
=
2 2
1 − sin2 θ cos2 θ
= R.H.S.  Proved.
1 + sin2 θ + cos2 θ + sin2 θ cos2 θ 1 + 1 + sin2 θ cos2 θ 2 + sin2 cos2 θ

3. TRANSFORMATIONS

3.1 Compound, Multiple and Sub-Multiple Angles

Circular functions of the algebraic sum of two angles can be expressed as circular functions of separate angles.
sin (A ± B) = sin A cos B ± cos A sin B; cos (A ± B) = cos A cos B  sin A sin B

tanA ± tanB cot A cotB  1

tan ( A ± B ) = ; cot ( A ± B ) =
1  tanA. tanB cotB ± cot A
Circular functions of multiples of an angle can be expressed as circular functions of the angle.
2 tanA
sin2A 2sinA
= = cos A
1 + tan2 A
1 − tan2 A
cos2A = cos2 A − sin2 A = = 2 cos2 A – 1 = 1 – 2 sin2 A
1 + tan2 A
2 tanA
tan2A = ; = 3sinA − 4 sin3 A
sin3A
2
1 − tan A
3tanA − tan3 A
cos3A 4 cos3 A − 3cos A ;
= tan3A =
1 − 3tan2 A
 M a them a tics | 7.7

Circular functions of half of an angle can be expressed as circular functions of the complete angle.

A 1 − cos A A 1 + cos A A 1 − cos A 1 − cos A sinA

sin = ; cos = ; tan
= = =
2 2 2 2 2 1 + cos A sinA 1 + cos A

3.2 Complementary and Supplementary Angles

sin ( −θ ) = − sin θ π 
cos  + θ  = − sin θ
 2 
cos ( −θ
= ) cos θ π 
tan  + θ  = − cot θ
2 
tan ( −θ ) = − tan θ sin ( π − θ=
) sin θ
π 
sin  − θ=
 cos θ cos ( π − θ ) = − cos θ
2 
π 
cos  − θ= sin θ tan ( π − θ ) = − tan θ
2 
π 
tan  − θ= cot θ sin ( π + θ ) = − sin θ
2 
π 
sin  + θ=
 cos θ cos ( π + θ ) = − cos θ
2 
tan ( π + θ=
) tan θ

3.3 Product to Sum and Sum to Product

C +D C −D C +D C −D
sinC + sinD =
2sin .cos ; sinC − sinD =
2cos .sin
2 2 2 2
C +D C −D C +D D−C
cosC + cosD =
2cos .cos ; cosC − cosD =
2sin .sin
2 2 2 2

π π
C + −D C − +D
π  2 2
Note: sinC + cosD = sinC + sin  − D  = 2sin .cos
2  2 2

sinC sinD sin ( C + D ) 1

tanC + tanD = + =
cosC cosD cosC.cosD
; sinA.cosB
=
2
{ }
sin ( A + B ) + sin ( A − B )

1 1
sinA.sinB
=
2
{ }
cos ( A − B ) − cos ( A + B ) ; cos A.cosB
=
2
{
cos ( A − B ) + cos ( A + B ) }
sin ( A + B ) .sin ( A − B=
) sin2 A − sin2 B ; cos ( A + B ) .cos ( A − =
B ) cos2 A − sin2 B

3.4 Power Reduction

1 1
sin2=
A
2
(1 − cos2A ) cos2=
A
2
(1 + cos2A )

1 − cos2A 3sinA − sin3A 3cos A + cos3A
tan2 A = ; sin3 A = ; cos3 A =
1 + cos2A 4 4
7 . 8 | Trigonometric Ratios, Identities and Equations

MASTERJEE CONCEPTS

2 3
 sin2n A
• cos A.cos2A.cos2 .A cos2= A......cos2n−1 A  if A ≠ nπ
 2n sinA

 1 if A= 2nπ
 −1 if A = (2n+ 1)π

• sin
= ( A1 + A2 + .... + An ) cos A1 cos A2 ....cos An (S1 − S3 + S5 − S7 + .... )
• cos
= ( A1 + A2 + .... + An ) cos A1 cos A2 ....cos An (1 − S2 + S4 − S6 .... )
S − S3 + S5 − S7 + ....
• tan ( A1 + A2 + .... + An ) =1
1 − S2 + S 4 − S6 + ....
Where,
S1 = tan A1 + tan A2 + …. + tan An = The sum of the tangents of the separate angles.
S2 = tan A1 tan A2 + tan A1 tan A3 + …. = The sum of the tangents taken two at a time.
S3 = tan A1 tan A2 tan A3 + tan A2 tan A3 tan A4 + ….. = Sum of tangents three at a time, and so on.
If A1 = A2 = ….. = An = A, then S1 = n tan A, S2 = nC2 tan2 A. S3 = nC3 tan3 A, …..

Vaibhav Gupta (JEE 2009, AIR 54)

4. TRIGONOMETRIC IDENTITY
A trigonometric equation is said to be an identity if it is true for all values of the angle or angles involved. A given
identity may be established by (i) Reducing either side to the other one, or (ii) Reducing each side to the same
expression, or (iii) Any convenient, modification of the methods given in (i) and (ii).

4.1 Conditional Identity

When the angles, A, B and C satisfy a given relation, we can establish many interesting identities connecting the
trigonometric functions of these angles. To prove these identities, we require the properties of complementary and
supplementary angles. For example, if A + B + C = π , then

1. sin (B + C ) = − cos ( C + A ) 2. cos ( A + B ) =

sinA,cosB = sin ( A + B )
− cosC,sinC =

A +B C C A +B
3. tan ( C + A ) = − cot (B + C ) 4.=
− tanB,cot A = cos sin
= ,cos sin
2 2 2 2

C+A B A B+C B+C A B C+A

5.=
sin cos
= ,sin cos 6.
= tan cot
= ,tan cot
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

Some Important Identities: If A + B + C =π , then

tanA tanB tanC 2. cotB cot C + cot C cot A + cot A cotB =

1. tanA + tanB + tanC = 1
B C C A A B A B C A B C
3. tan tan + tan tan + tan tan =1 4. cot + cot + cot =cot cot cot
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
 M a them a tics | 7.9

5. sin2A + sin2B + sin2C =

4 sinA sinB sinC 6. cos2A + cos2B + cos2C =−1 − 4 cos A cosB cosC
A B C
7. cos2 A + cos2 B + cos2 C =
1 − 2cos A cosB cosC 8. sinA + sinB + sinC =
4 cos cos cos
2 2 2
A B C
9. cos A + cosB + cosC =
1 + 4 sin sin sin
2 2 2

Illustration 8: Show that:

1
(i) sin ( 40º +θ ) cos (10º +θ ) − cos ( 40º +θ ) sin (10º +θ ) =
2
π  π  π  π 
 sin ( θ + φ ) 
(ii) cos  − θ  cos  − φ  − sin  − θ  sin  − φ= (JEE MAIN)
4  4  4  4 

Sol: Use sum and difference formulae of sine and cosine functions.
(i) L.H.S. = sin ( 40º +θ ) cos (10º +θ ) − cos ( 40º +θ ) sin (10º +θ )
1
{ }
= sin ( 40º +θ ) − (10º +θ )  sin ( A
= − B ) sinA cosB − cos A sinB  = sin30º
= = R.H.S. 
2
Proved.

π  π  π  π 
(ii) L.H.S. = cos  − θ  cos  − φ  − sin  − θ  sin  − φ 
4  4  4  4 
 π  π   π 
= cos  − θ  +  − φ    cos ( A= + B ) cos A cosB − sinA =
sinB  cos  − ( θ + φ ) 
 4  4   2 
 π  
= sin ( θ + φ ) =R.H.S.  cos  − θ=  sin θ   Proved
  2  

1  3π  5 π 
Illustration 9: Find the value of tan ( α + β ) , given that cot α= , α ∈  π,  and sec β = − , β ∈  , π  . 
2  2  3 2 
 (JEE MAIN)
tan α + tan β
Sol: As we know, tan ( α + β ) = , therefore by using product and Pythagorean identities we can obtain
1 − tan α. tan β
the values of tanα and tanβ .
1
Given, cot α = ⇒ tan α =2
2
5 25 4
Also, sec β = − . Then tan β = sec2 β − 1 =± − 1 =±
3 9 3
π  4
But β ∈  , π  ⇒ tan β = −  tan β is − ve in II quadrant 
2  3
 4 2
2 + −  +
4  3  = 3 = + 2
Substituting tan α =2 and tan β = − in (1), we get tan ( α + β ) =
3  4  11 11
1 − (2)  − 
 3  3
Illustration 10: Prove that: tan3A tan2A tanA = tan3A − tan2A − tanA  (JEE MAIN)

tan α + tan β
Sol: Here we can write tan3A as tan ( 2A + A ) , and then by using tan ( α + β ) = we can solve this
problem. 1 − tan α tan β

tan2A + tanA
We have: 3A = 2A + A ⇒ tan3A = tan ( 2A + A ) ⇒ tan3A =
1 − tan2A tanA
7 . 1 0 | Trigonometric Ratios, Identities and Equations

⇒ tan3A (1 − tan2A tanA ) =tan2A + tanA ⇒ tan3A − tan3A tan2A tanA = tan2A + tanA

tan3A tan2A tanA  Proved.

⇒ tan3A − tan2A − tanA =

Illustration 11: Prove that: 2 + 2 + 2 + 2cos8θ = 2cos θ  (JEE MAIN)

Sol: Use 1 + cos2

= θ 2cos2 θ , to solve this problem.

L.H.S. = 2 + 2 + 2 + 2cos8θ = 2 + 2 + 2 (1 + cos8θ )

= 2 + 2 + 2(2cos2 4θ)  1 + cos2

= θ 2cos2 θ 
 

= 2 + 2 + 2cos 4θ= 2 + 2 (1 + cos 4θ ) = (

2 + 2 2cos2 2θ = ) 2 + 2cos2θ

= 2(1 + cos2
= θ) 2.2cos
= 2
θ 4 cos2 θ = 2cos θ = R.H.S.  Proved.

m 1 π
Illustration 12: If tan A = and tan B = , prove that A – B =  (JEE ADVANCED)
m−1 2m − 1 4
tanA − tanB
Sol: Simply using tan (A – B) = , we can prove above equation.
1 + tanA. tanB
m 1
We have, tan A = and tan B =
m−1 2m − 1

tanA − tanB
Now, tan (A – B) =  ... (i)
1 + tanA. tanB

Substituting the values of tan A and tan B in (i), we get

m 1
2m2 − m − m + 1 (m − 1 )( 2m − 1 )
−
tan (A – B) = m − 1 2m −1 = × 1
=
 m  1 
1+  
( m − 1 )( 2m − 1 ) 2m2 − 3m + 1 + m
 m − 1   2m − 1 

π  π  π
⇒ tan ( A − B ) =
tan  tan = 1 ⇒ A − B =  Proved.
4  4  4

nsin α cos α
Illustration 13: If tan β = ; prove that tan ( α − β =
) (1 − n) tan α  (JEE ADVANCED)
1 − nsin2 α
tan α − tan β
Sol: Same as above problem tan ( α − β ) = , therefore by substituting
1 + tan α tan β
nsin α cos α
tan β = , we can prove given equation.
1 − nsin2 α
tan α − tan β
L.H.S. = tan ( α − β ) =  ... (i)
1 + tan α tan β
sin α nsin α cos α
−
nsin α cos α cos α 1 − nsin2 α  sin α 
Substituting tan β = in (i), we get L.H.S. =  tan α = 
2
1 − nsin α sin α nsin α cos α  cos α
1+ .
cos α 1 − nsin2 α
 M a them a ti cs | 7.11

=
( )
sin α 1 − nsin2 α − nsin α cos2 α
=
3
sin α − nsin α − nsin α cos α 2

cos α (1 − nsin α ) + nsin α cos α

2 2 2 2
cos α − nsin α cos α + nsin α cos α

sin α − nsin α ( sin α + cos α ) sin α − nsin α

2 2

=
cos α cos α

 sin2 α + cos2 α =1 = (

1 − n) sin α
  cos α
= (1 − n) tan α= R.H.S.  Proved.

k sin α sin α
Illustration 14: If θ + φ = α and sin=
θ k sin φ , prove
= that tan θ = ,tan φ (JEE ADVANCED)
1 + k cos α k + cos α 

Sol: Here φ = α − θ , substitute this in sin=

θ k sin φ and then use compound angle formula to obtain required
result.
We have, θ + φ = α ⇒ φ = α − θ  ... (i)
θ k sin φ 
and sin= ... (ii)
⇒ sin
= θ k sin ( α − θ ) [Using = (i)] k sin α cos θ − cos α sin θ 
⇒ sin
= θ k sin α cos θ − k cos α sin θ  ... (iii)
Dividing both sides of (iii) by cos θ, we get tan
= θ k sin α − k cos α. tan θ
k sin α
⇒ tan θ + k cos α. tan
= θ k sin α ⇒ tan θ (1 + k cos α=
) k sin α ⇒ tan θ =  Proved.
1 + k cos α
Again, θ k sin φ
sin= ⇒ sin ( α −=
φ ) k sin φ θ + φ = α ⇒ θ = α − φ 
⇒ sin α cos φ − cos α sin
= φ k sin φ  ... (iv)
Dividing both side of (iv) by cos φ , we get
sin α
⇒ sin α − cos α tan
= φ k tan φ ⇒ (k + cos α ) tan φ= sin α ⇒ tan φ = Proved.
k + cos α

α+β β+γ γ+α

Illustration 15: Prove that: cos α + cos β + cos γ + cos ( α + β + γ ) = 4 cos cos cos (JEE ADVANCED)
2 2 2 
α+β α −β
Sol: Use cos α + cos β = 2cos   cos   , to solve this problem.
 2   2 
L.H.S = cos α + cos β + cos γ + cos ( α + β + γ ) = ( cos α + cos β ) + cos γ + cos ( α + β + γ ) 

α+β α −β α+β+ γ + γ α+β+ γ −γ

= 2cos   cos   + 2cos   .cos  
 2   2   2   2 

α+β α −β  α + β + 2γ  α+β

= 2cos   cos   + 2cos   cos  
 2   2   2   2 

 α + β   α −β  α + β + 2γ  
= 2cos   cos   + cos  
 2    2   2  

  α − β α + β + 2γ   α + β + 2γ α − β  
+ −
 α + β   
2 2
 
2 2 

= 2cos   2cos   cos  
 2   2   2 
   
     
7 . 1 2 | Trigonometric Ratios, Identities and Equations

 α + β   α+γ  β + γ   α+β β+ γ  γ+α

= 2cos   2cos   cos    = 4 cos  2  cos  2  cos  2  = R.H.S.  Proved.
 2    2   2        

 2π   4π 
Illustration 16: If x cos
= θ y cos  θ +=  z cos  θ +  , then show that xy + yz + zx = 0. (JEE ADVANCED)
 3   3 

 2π   4π 
Sol: Consider x cos
= θ y cos  θ +=  z cos  θ + =  k , obtain the value of x , y and z in terms of k, and solve
L.H.S. of given equation.  3   3 

 2π   4π 
Let x cos
= θ y cos  θ +=  z cos  θ + =  k ... (i)
 3   3 

 2π   4π 
cos  θ +  cos  θ + 
1 cos θ 1  3  1  3 
=
⇒ = , = ,
x k y k z k
xyz xyz xyz 1 1 1 
Now, L.H.S. = xy + yz + zx = + + = xyz  + + 
z x y z x y
  4π   2π  
 cos  θ +  cos  θ + 
 3 + cos θ  3  xyz   4π   2π  
= xyz  + [Using
= (i)]  cos  θ +  + cos  θ +  + cos θ 
 k k k  k   3   3  
 
 

xyz  2θ + 2π π  xyz  π  xyz  1 

= 2cos cos + cos θ  = 2cos ( π + θ ) cos + cos θ  =  −2cos θ.   + cos θ 
k  2 3  k  3  k  2 

xyz xyz
=  − cos θ + cos θ  = 0  = 0 ⇒ xy + zy + zx =
0 Proved.
k  k  

Illustration 17: Prove that: cos θ cos2θ cos 4θ......cos2n−1 θ =

( )
sin 2n θ
(JEE ADVANCED)
2n ( sin θ )

Sol: Multiply and divide L.H.S. by 2sinθ and apply sin ( 2θ=
) 2sin θ cos θ .
Here, we observe that each angle in L.H.S. is double of the preceding angle.
L.H.S. = cos θ cos2θ cos 4θ......cos2n−1 θ

=
1
2sin θ
(
( 2sin θ.cos θ ) cos2θ.cos 4θ.....cos2n−1 θ = 2 1 ( 2sin2θ.cos2θ ) cos 4θ......cos2n−1 θ
2 sin θ
)
1
= ( 2sin 4θ.cos 4θ ) cos8θ cos16θ......cos2n−1 θ  sin=
2n θ 2 sin n θ cos n θ 
23 sin θ

=
1
( 2sin8 θ.cos8 θ)  cos16 θ......cos2n−1 
θ =
1 
2sin2n−1
θ cos2
=n−1 
θ
( )
sin 2n θ
= R.H.S.  Proved.
24 sin θ   2n sin θ   2n sin θ

acos φ + b θ a−b φ
Illustration 18: If cos θ = , prove that tan = tan  (JEE ADVANCED)
a + bcos φ 2 a+b 2
θ φ
1 − tan2 1 − tan2
2 2 acos φ + b
Sol: Substitute cos θ = and cos φ = in given equation i.e. cos θ = .
2 θ 2 φ a + bcos φ
1 + tan 1 + tan
2 2
 M a them a ti cs | 7.13

 2 φ
 1 − tan 
a.  2 +b
1 − tan2
θ  1 + tan2 φ 
acos φ + b  
Now, cos θ = ⇒ 2 =  2 [Using (i)]
a + bcos φ θ  2 φ
1 + tan2  1 − tan 
2 a + b 2
 1 + tan φ 
2
 
 2

θ a 1 − tan2 φ  + b 1 + tan2 φ  φ φ
1 − tan2  2   2  a − atan2 + b + b tan2
⇒ 2 =     = 2 2
2 θ  2 φ  2 φ 2 φ 2 φ
1 + tan a 1 + tan  + b 1 − tan  a + atan + b − b tan
2  2  2 2 2

Applying componendo and dividendo, we get

θ φ φ
2 tan2
2
2atan2   − 2b tan2  
2 2
( a − b ) tan2 2φ θ a−b φ
= ⇒ tan = tan  Proved
2 2a + 2b a+b 2 a+b 2

5. SOLUTION OF TRIGONOMETRIC EQUATION

A solution of a trigonometric equation is the value of the unknown angle that satisfies the equation.
1 π 3π 9π 11π
Eg.: if sinθ
= ⇒=
θ , , , ,......
2 4 4 4 4
Thus, the trigonometric equation may have infinite number of solutions (because of their periodic nature). These
solutions can be classified as:
(i) Principal solution (ii) General solution

5.1 Principal Solution

 , π ) are called principal solutions.
The solutions of a trigonometric equation which lie in the interval −π

Methods for Finding Principal Value

1
Suppose we have to find the principal value of θ satisfying the equation sin θ = − . Since sin θ is negative, θ
2
will be in 3rd or 4th quadrant. We can approach the 3rd and the 4th quadrant from two directions. Following the
anticlockwise direction, the numerical value of the angle will be greater than π . The clockwise approach would
result in the angles being numerically less than π. To find the principal value, we have to take the angle which is
numerically smallest.
Y

X’ /6 /6 X

B
Y’

Figure 7.2
7 . 1 4 | Trigonometric Ratios, Identities and Equations

For Principal Value

(a) If the angle is in the 1st or 2nd quadrant, we must select the anticlockwise direction and if the angles are in the
3rd or 4th quadrant, we must select the clockwise direction.
(b) Principal value is never numerically greater than π .
(c) Principal value always lies in the first circle (i.e. in first rotation)
π 5π π π
On the above criteria, θ will be − or − . Among these two − has the least numerical value. Hence − is the
6 6 6 6
1
principal value of θ satisfying the equation sin θ = −
2
From the above discussion, the method for finding principal value can be summed up as follows:
(a) First identify the quadrants in which the angle lies.
(b) Select the anticlockwise direction for the 1st and 2nd quadrants and select clockwise direction for the 3rd and
4th quadrants.
(c) Find the angle in the first rotation.
(d) Select the numerically least value among these two values. The angle thus found will be the principal value.
(e) In case, two angles, one with a positive sign and the other with a negative sign have the same numerical value,
then it is the convention to select the angle with the positive sign as the principal value.

5.2 General Solution

The expression which gives all solutions of a trigonometric equation is called a General Solution.

General Solution of Trigonometric Equations

In this section we shall obtain the general solutions of +1
trigonometric equations
sin
= θ 0,cos
= θ 0,tan
= θ 0 and cot θ =0 .
General Solution of sin θ =0 -2 -3/2 - -2
O
2

3/2
2

By Graphical approach:
The graph clearly shows that sin θ =0 at
-1

θ= 0, π, 2 π,......, − π, −2 π ..... Figure 7.3

So the general solution of sin θ =0 is θ = nπ : n ∈ I where n = 0, ± 1, ± 2 …………………..

Note: Trigonometric functions are periodic functions. Therefore, solutions of trigonometric equations can be
generalized with the help of periodicity of trigonometric functions.

MASTERJEE CONCEPTS

A trigonometric identity is satisfied by any value of an unknown angle while a trigonometric equation is
satisfied by certain values of the unknown.
Vaibhav Krishnan (JEE 2009, AIR 22)

Method for Finding Principal Value

(a) First note the quadrants in which the angle lies.
(b) For the 1st and 2nd quadrants, consider the anticlockwise direction. For the 3rd and 4th quadrants, consider the
clockwise direction.
 M a them a ti cs | 7.15

(c) Find the angles in the 1st rotation.

(d) Select the numerically least value among these two values. The angle found will be the principal value.

Illustration 19: Principal value of tan θ = −1 is  (JEE MAIN)

Sol: Solve it by using above mentioned method.

Y
 tanθ is negative
B +
∴ θ will lie in 2nd or 4th quadrant 3
For the 2 quadrant, we will choose the anticlockwise direction and for the 4 quadrant,
nd th 4
we will select the clockwise direction. X’  X
-
π 3π + - 4
In the first circle, two values − and are obtained.
4 4
π A
Among these two, − is numerically least angle.
4 Y’
π
Hence, the principal value is − Figure 7.4
4

1
Illustration 20: Principal value of cos θ = is:  (JEE MAIN)
2
Sol: Here cos θ is ( + ) ve hence θ will lie in 1st or 4th quadrant.
 cos θ is ( + ) ve ∴ θ will lie in the 1st or the 4th quadrant.
Y
B
For the 1st quadrant, we will select the anticlockwise direction and for the 4th quadrant,

we will select the clockwise direction.
3
π −π
As a result, in the first circle, two values and are found. X’
O 
X
3 3 -
π π 3
Both and − have the same numerical value.
3 3
A
π
In such a case, will be selected as the principal value, as it has a positive sign. Y’
3
Figure 7.5
Illustration 21: Find the general solutions of the following equations:
3 
(i) sin2θ =0 (ii) cos  θ  =0 (iii) tan2 2θ =0  (JEE MAIN)
2 
Sol: By using above mentioned method of finding general solution we can solve these equation.
nπ
(i) We have, sin2θ = 0 ⇒ 2θ = nπ ⇒ θ = where, n = 0, ± 1, ± 2, ± 3......
2
nπ
Hence, the general solution of sin2θ =0 =
is θ ,n ∈ Z
2

(ii) We know that, the general solution of the equation cos θ =0 is =

θ ( 2n + 1) 2π ,n ∈ Z
 3θ 
Therefore, cos   = 0 ⇒
3θ π
= ( 2n + 1 ) ⇒ =
θ ( 2n + 1) 3π , where n = 0, ± 1, ± 2 …….
 2  2 2
 3θ 
Which is the general solution of cos   = 0
 2 
(iii) We know that the general solution of the equation tan θ =0 is θ = nπ , n ∈ Z
nπ
Therefore, tan2 2θ =0 ⇒ tan2θ =0 ⇒ 2θ = nπ ⇒ θ = , where n = 0, ± 1, ± 2 ………
2
Which is the required solution.
7 . 1 6 | Trigonometric Ratios, Identities and Equations

6. PERIODIC FUNCTION
A function f (x) is said to be periodic if there exists T > 0 such that f (x + T) = f (x) for all x in the domain of definition
of f (x). If T is the smallest positive real number such that f (x + T) = f (x), then it is called the period of f (x).
( 2nπ + x ) sinx,cos=
We know that, sin= ( 2nπ + x ) cos x , =
tan (nπ + x ) tanx for all n ∈ Z
Therefore, sinx, cosx and tanx are periodic functions. The period of sinx and cosx is 2π and the period of tanx is π .
Function Period

sin ( ax + b ) ,cos ( ax + b ) ,sec ( ax + b ) ,cosec ( ax + b ) 2π / a

tan ( ax + b ) ,cot ( ax + b ) π/a

sin ( ax + b ) , cos ( ax + b ) , sec ( ax + b ) , cosec ( ax + b ) π/a

tan ( ax + b ) , cot ( ax + b ) π / 2a

(a) Trigonometric equations can be solved by different methods. The form of solutions obtained in different
methods may be different. From these different forms of solutions, it is wrong to assume that the answer
obtained by one method is wrong and those obtained by another method are correct. The solutions obtained
by different methods may be shown to be equivalent by some supplementary transformations.
To test the equivalence of two solutions obtained from two different methods, the simplest way is to put
values of n = ……….. – 2, – 1, 0, 1, 2, 3, ……. etc. and then to find the angles in [0, 2π]. If all the angles in both
the solutions are same, the solutions are equivalent.
(b) While manipulating the trigonometric equation, avoid the danger of losing roots. Generally, some roots are
lost by cancelling a common factor from the two sides of an equation. For example, suppose we have the
equation tan x = 2 sin x. Here by dividing both sides by sin x, we get cos x = 1/2.
(c) While equating one of the factors to zero, we must take care to see that the other factor does not become
infinite. For example, if we have the equation sin x = 0, which can be written as cos x tan x = 0. Here we cannot
put cos x = 0, since for cos x = 0, tan x = sin x / cos x is infinite.
(d) Avoid squaring: When we square both sides of an equation, some extraneous roots appear. Hence it is
necessary to check all the solutions found by substituting them in the given equation and omit the solutions
that do not satisfy the given equation.
For example: Consider the equation, sin θ + cos θ =1  …. (i)
Squaring, we get 1 + sin2θ =1 or sin2θ =0  …. (ii)
This gives θ= 0, π / 2, π,3π / 2 ………
Verification shows that π and 3π / 2 do not satisfy the equation as sin π + cos π = −1, ≠ 1 and
sin3π / 2 + cos3π / 2 =−1, ≠ 1 .
The reason for this is simple.
The equation (ii) is not equivalent to (i) and (ii) contains two equations: sin θ + cos θ =1 and sin θ + cos θ = −1 .
Therefore, we get extra solutions.
Thus if squaring is a must, verify each of the solutions.

Some Necessary Restriction: If the equation involves tan x, sec x, take cos x ≠ 0. If cot x or cosec x appear, take
sin x ≠ 0. If log appears in the equation, then number > 0 and base of log > 0, ≠ 1.
Also note that f ( θ )  is always positive. For example, sin2 θ = sinθ , not ± sin θ .
 

Verification: Students are advised to check whether all the roots obtained by them satisfy the equation and lie in
the domain of the variable of the given equation.
 M a them a ti cs | 7.17

7. SOME TRIGONOMETRIC EQUATIONS WITH THEIR GENERAL SOLUTIONS

Trigonometric equation General solution

If sin θ =0 θ = nπ

If cos θ =0 θ= (nπ + π / 2)= ( 2n + 1) π / 2

If tan θ =0 θ = nπ

If sin θ =1 θ= 2nπ + π / 2= ( 4n + 1) π / 2
If cos θ =1 θ= 2nπ

θ = nπ + ( −1 ) α where α ∈  −π / 2, π / 2 
n
If sin θ
= sin α

If cos=
θ cos α θ= 2nπ ± α where α ∈ 0, π 

If tan=
θ tan α θ = nπ + α where α ∈  −π / 2, π / 2 

If sin2=
θ sin2 α θ = nπ ± α

2
If cos= θ cos2 α θ = nπ ± α

2
If tan= θ tan2 α θ = nπ ± α

If sin θ= sin α θ= 2nπ + α

cos= θ cos α

If sin θ= sin α θ= 2nπ + α

tan= θ tan α

If tan=
θ tan α θ= 2nπ + α
cos=
θ cos α

Note: Everywhere in this chapter, “n” is taken as an integer.

Illustration 22: Solve: sinmθ + sinnθ = 0  (JEE MAIN)

α+β α −β
Sol: By using sin α + sin β = 2sin   cos   , we can solve this problem.
 2   2 
We have, sinmθ + sinnθ = 0

m+n m−n m+n m−n

⇒ sin   θ.cos   θ =0 ⇒ sin   θ =0 or cos   θ =0
 2   2   2   2 
m+n m+n
Now, sin   θ =0 ⇒   θ = rπ,r ∈ Z  ... (i)
 2   2 
7 . 1 8 | Trigonometric Ratios, Identities and Equations

m−n m−n π
And cos   θ =0 ⇒ cos  2  θ =cos 2
 2   

m−n  2p + 1 
⇒ =θ ( 2p + 1) 2π , p ∈ Z=
⇒θ   π,  … (ii)
 2   m−n 
2rπ  2p + 1 
From (i) and (ii), we have θ = or
= θ   π where, m,n ∈ Z
m+n  m−1 

Illustration 23: Solve: 4 sinx cos x + 2sinx + 2cos x + 1 =0 (JEE ADVANCED)

Sol: Simply using algebra and method of finding general equation, we can solve above equation.
We have, 4 sinx cos x + 2sinx + 2cos x + 1 =0
⇒ 2sinx ( 2cos x + 1 ) + 1 ( 2cos x + 1 ) =
0 ⇒ ( 2sinx + 1 )( 2cos x + 1 ) =
0
1 1
⇒ 2sinx + 1 =0 or 2cos x + 1 =0 ⇒ sinx = − or cos x = −
2 2
1  π π
sinx = − = sin  − 
⇒ sinx ⇒ x= − The general solution of this is
2  6 6
 −1 ) 
(
n+1
n π n+1  π 
x = nπ + ( −1 )  −  = nπ + ( −1 )   ⇒ x = 
π n+  … (i)
 6  6
   6 
 
1  π 2π 2π
and cos x = − ⇒ cos
= x cos  π − = cos ⇒ x=
2  3 3 3

2π  1
The general solution of this is x= 2nπ ± i.e. x = 2π  n ±   ... (ii)
3  3
 −1 ) 
(
n+1

From (1) and (2), we have π n +  and 2π  n ± 1  are the required solutions
  
6   3
 

8. METHODS OF SOLVING TRIGONOMETRIC EQUATIONS

8.1 Factorization
Trigonometric equations can be solved by use of factorization.

sin2 x 
Illustration 24: Solve: ( 2sinx − cos x )(1 + cos x ) = (JEE MAIN)

Sol: Use factorization method to solve this illustration.

( 2sinx − cos x )(1 + cos x ) = sin2 x ⇒ ( 2sinx − cos x )(1 + cos x ) − sin2 x = 0
( 2sinx − cos x )(1 + cos x ) − (1 − cos x )(1 + cos x ) =
0 ; (1 + cos x )( 2sinx − 1 ) =
0
1 + cosx = 0 or 2 sin x – 1 = 0
1
cos x = – 1 or sin x =
2
cos x = cos π or sin x = sin π / 6
( 2n + 1) π,n ∈ I or x = nπ + ( −1 ) π / 6,n ∈ I
n
⇒ x=
∴ The solution of given equation is ( 2n + 1 ) π,n ∈ I or nπ + ( −1 ) π / 6, n ∈ I
n
 M a them a ti cs | 7.19

8.2 Sum to Product

Trigonometric equations can be solved by transforming a sum or difference of trigonometric ratios into their
product.

Illustration 25: If sin 5x + sin 3x + sin x = 0 and 0 ≤ x ≤ π / 2 , then x is equal to.  (JEE MAIN)

α+β α −β
Sol: By using sum to product formula i.e. sin α + sin β = 2sin   cos  .
 2   2 
0 ⇒ sin3x ( 2cos2x + 1 ) =
sin 5x + sinx = – sin 3x ⇒ 2sin3x cos2x + sin3x = 0
⇒ sin3x = −1 / 2 ⇒ x = nπ, x = nπ ± ( π / 3)
0,cos2x =

0
Illustration 26: Solve cos3x + sin2x − sin 4x = (JEE MAIN)

Sol: Same as above illustration, by using formula

α +β α −β
sin α − sin β = 2cos   sin   We can solve this illustration.
 2   2 
cos 3x + sin 2x – sin 4x = 0 ⇒ cos3x + 2cos3x.sin − x =
0( )
0 ⇒ cos3x (1 − 2sinx ) =
⇒ cos3x − 2cos3x.sinx = 0
π 1
0 or 1 – 2 sin x = 0
⇒ cos3x = ⇒ 3x = ( 2n + 1 ) ,n ∈ I or sinx =
2 2

( 2n + 1) 6π ,n ∈ I or x = nπ + ( −1 )
π
n
⇒ x= ,n ∈ I
6
π n π
∴ Solution of given equation is ( 2n + 1 ) ,n ∈ I or nπ + ( −1 ) ,n ∈ I
6 6

8.3 Product to Sum

Trigonometric equations can also be solved by transforming product into a sum or difference of trigonometric
ratios.

Illustration 27: The number of solutions of the equation sin5x cos3x = sin6x cos2x, in the interval 0, π  , is:
 (JEE MAIN)
Sol: Simply by using product to sum method.
1
The given equation can be written as
2
( sin8x + sin2x )= 12 ( sin8x + sin 4x )
⇒ sin 2x – sin 4x = 0 ⇒ – 2 sin x cos 3x = 0
π
Hence sin x = 0 or cos 3x = 0. That is, x = nπ (n ∈ I ) , or 3x = kπ +
2
(k ∈ I ) .
π π 5π
Therefore, since x ∈ 0, π  , the given equation is satisfied if x = 0, π, , or .
6 2 6
Hence, no. of solutions is 5.
7 . 2 0 | Trigonometric Ratios, Identities and Equations

8.4 Parametric Methods

General solution of trigonometric equation acos θ + b sin θ = c
b
To solve the equation acos θ + b sin θ = c , put a= r cos φ,b= r sin φ such that=
r a2 + b2=
, φ tan−1
a
Substituting these values in the equation, we have, r cos φ cos θ + r sin φ sin θ = c
c c
cos ( θ − φ ) =
r
(
⇒ cos θ − φ = )
a + b2
2

If c > a2 + b2 , then the equation acos θ + b sin θ = c has no solution.

c
If c ≤ a2 + b2 , then put = cos α , so that cos ( θ − φ=
) cos α
a2 + b2
⇒ ( θ − φ )= 2nπ ± α ⇒ θ= 2nπ ± α + φ

2
Illustration 28: Solve: sinx + 3 cos x = (JEE MAIN)

Sol: Solve by using above mentioned parametric method.

Given, 3 cos x + sinx =2 , dividing both sides by a2 + b2

3 1 2 1  π π
⇒ cos x + sinx = = ⇒ cos  x −  =
cos  
2 2 2 2  6 4
π π π π 5π π
⇒ x − = 2nπ ± ⇒ x= 2nπ ± + ⇒ x= 2nπ + , 2nπ − where n ∈ I
6 4 4 6 12 12
Note: Trigonometric equations of the form a sin x + b cos x = c can also be solved by changing sin x and cos x into
their corresponding tangent of half the angle. i.e t=tan x/2. The following example gives you insight.

Illustration 29: Solve: 3 cos x + 4 sin x = 5 (JEE MAIN)

x x
1 − tan2 2 tan
Sol: As we know, cos x = 2 and sinx = 2 . Therefore by substituting these values and solving we
2 x 2 x
1 + tan 1 + tan
will be get the result. 2 2

3 cos x + 4 sin x = 5  … (i)

x x
1 − tan2 2 tan
 cos x = 2 & sinx = 2 ∴ Equation (i) becomes
2 x 2 x
1 + tan 1 + tan
2 2
 2 x   x 
 1 − tan   2 tan 
⇒ 3 2  + 4 2 = 5 … (ii)
 1 + tan2 x   1 + tan2 x 
   
 2  2
x
Let tan = t ∴ Equation (ii) becomes
2
 1 − t2   2t 
5 ⇒ 4t2 − 4t + 1 = 0 ⇒ ( 2t − 1 ) = 0 ⇒ t = 1 / 2  t = tanx / 2
2
3  + 4 =
 1 + t2  2 
  1 + t 
 M a them a ti cs | 7.21

x 1 x 1 x −1  1 
⇒ tan =⇒ tan = where, α tan   ,n ∈ I
tan α , where tan α = ⇒ = nπ + α ⇒ x= 2nπ + 2α =
2 2 2 2 2 2

8.5 Functions of sin x and cos x

Trigonometric equations of the form P (sin x ± cos x, sin x cos x) = 0, where P (y, z) is a polynomial, can be solved
by using the substitution sin x ± cos x = C.

Illustration 30: Solve: sin x + cos x = 1 + sin x. cos x (JEE MAIN)

Sol: Consider sin x + cos x = t, and solve it by using parametric method.

 sin x + cos x = 1 + sin x. cos x ... (i)
Let sin x + cos x = t
t2 − 1
⇒ sin2 x + cos2 x + 2sinx.cosx =
t2 ⇒ sinx.cos x =
2
t2 − 1 t2 − 1
Now, put sin x + cos x = t and sin x. cos x = in (i), we get t = 1 +
2 2
⇒ t2 − 2t + 1 =0 ⇒t=1  t = sin x + cos x ⇒ sinx + cos x =
1 … (ii)

Dividing both sides of equation (ii) by 2 , we get:

1 1 1  π π π π
⇒ sinx + cos x. = ⇒ cos  x −  = cos ⇒ x − = 2nπ ±
2 2 2  4  4 4 4
π
If we take the positive sign, we get x = 2nπ + , n ∈ I
2
If we take the negative sign, we get x = 2nπ, n ∈ I

8.6 Using Boundaries of sin x and cos x

Trigonometric equations can be solved by the use of boundness of the trigonometric ratios sinx and cos x.

MASTERJEE CONCEPTS

(i) The answer should not contain such values of angles which make any of the terms undefined or
infinite.
(ii) Never cancel terms containing unknown terms on the two sides, which are in product. It may cause
loss of the general solution.
Suppose the equation is sin x = (tan x)/2. Now, cancelling sinx on both the sides, we get only
1
cos x = , sin x = 0 is not counted.
2
(iii) Check that the denominator is not zero at any stage while solving equations.
(iv) While solving a trigonometric equation, squaring the equation at any step must be avoided if
possible. If squaring is necessary, check the solution for extraneous values.
Suppose the equation is sin x = – sin x. We know that the only solution of this is sin x = 0 but on squaring,
we get (sin x)2=(sin x)2 which is always true.
(v) Domain should not change, it if changes, necessary corrections must be made.
Shivam Agarwal (JEE 2009, AIR 27)
7 . 2 2 | Trigonometric Ratios, Identities and Equations

Illustration 31: Solve: sin 3x + cos 2x = – 2 (JEE ADVANCED)

Sol: By using boundary condition of sin x and cos x.

Since sin3x ≥ −1 and cos2x ≥ −1 , we have, sin3x + cos2x ≥ −2
Thus, the equality holds true if and only if sin3x =
−1 and cos2x =
−1
n π nπ n π π
⇒ 3x = nπ + ( −1 )  −  and 2x = 2nπ ± π i.e. x = + ( −1 )  −  and x = nπ ± , n ∈ I
 2  3  6  2

   
∴ Solution set is, x | x = nπ + ( −1)n  − π   ∩ x | x = nπ ±  π  
 3  6     2  
Note: Here, unlike all other problems, the solution set consists of the intersection of two solution sets and not the
union of the solution sets.

 x   x 
Illustration 32: sinx  cos − 2sinx  +  1 + sin − 2cos x  ( cos x ) =
0 . Find the general solution. (JEE ADVANCED)
 4   4 
Sol: Open all brackets of given equation and then by using sum to product formula and method of finding general
solution we will get the result.
x x
sinx cos − 2sin2 x + cos x + sin cos x − 2cos2 x =
0
4 4

 x 5x 5x
sin  x +  + cos x =
2 ⇒ sin + cos x =2 ⇒ sin = 1 and cos x = 1
 4 4 4
5x 5x π π
sin = 1 ⇒ = 2nπ + =
⇒ x 2 ( 4n + 1 ) ; cos x = 1 ⇒ x = 2mπ
4 4 2 5

⇒ x = 2π,10π,18π ……..AP ⇒ x = 2π + m − 1 8π ( )
( )
⇒ x = 2π 4m − 3 m ∈ I

 π
Illustration 33: Find the general solution of 2sin  3x +  = 1 + 8 sin2x cos2 2x (JEE ADVANCED)
4
 
Sol: First square on both side and then using sum and difference formula we can solve this illustration.
2 2
 π  sin3x cos3x 
 = 1 + 8 sin2x cos 2x
2
4 sin2  3x +  = 1 + 8 sin2x cos2 2x ⇒ 4  +
 4   2 2 
4 sin2 3x 4 cos2 3x
⇒ + 1 + 8 sin2x cos2 2x
+ 4 sin3x cos3x =
2 2
⇒ 2sin2 3x + 2cos2 3x + 2sin6x =
1 + 8 sin2x cos2 2x
⇒ 1 + 2 sin 6x = 8 sin 2x cos2 2x ⇒ 1 + 2 sin 6x = 4 sin 4x cos 2x
⇒ 1 + 2 sin 6x = 2 (sin 6x + sin 2x) ⇒ 1 = 2 sin 2x ⇒ sin 2x = ½
π sin x cos4 x 1
4
⇒ x= + 2nπ x= + = n ∈ I
12 2 3 5

9. SIMULTANEOUS EQUATIONS
Two equations are given and we have to find the value of variable θ which may satisfy both the given equations,
 M a them a ti cs | 7.23

like cos=
θ cos α and sin θ= sin α
So, the common solution is θ= 2nπ + α , n ∈ I
Similarly, sin θ= sin α and tan=
θ tan α
So, the common solution is θ= 2nπ + α , n ∈ I

1
Illustration 34: The most general value of θ satisfying the equations cos θ = and tan θ = −1 is: (JEE MAIN)
2
Sol: As above mentioned method we can find out the general value of θ .
1 π
cos=
θ = cos  
2 4
π 9π 7π
⇒ θ= 2nπ ± ; n ∈ I Put n = 1 θ = ,
4 4 4

 −π  3π 7π
tan θ = −1 = tan   ⇒ θ = nπ − π / 4 , n ∈ I Put n = 1, θ = ; Put n= 2, θ=
 4  4 4
 7π 
The common value which satisfies both these equation is   .
 4 
7π
Hence, the general value is 2nπ + .
4

1
Illustration 35: The most general value of θ satisfying equations sin θ = − and tan θ =1 / 3 are:  (JEE MAIN)
2
Sol: Similar to above illustration.
We shall first consider values of θ between 0 and 2π
1 π  π
sin θ = − = − = sin  π +  or sin ( 2π − π / 6 )
2 6  6
∴ θ = 7π / 6,11π / 6 ; tan
= θ 1/ =3 tan ( π /= 6 ) tan ( π + π / 6 )
∴ θ = π / 6,7π / 6
Thus, the value of θ between 0 and 2π which satisfies both the equations is 7π / 6 .
Hence, the general value of θ is 2nπ + 7π / 6 where n ∈ I

PROBLEM SOLVING TACTICS

nπ + ( −1 ) A
n
A
(a) Any formula that gives the value of sin in terms of sin A shall also give the value of sin .
2 2
A 2nπ ± A
(b) Any formula that gives the value of cos in terms of cos A shall also give the value of cos .
2 2
A nπ ± A
(c) Any formula that gives the value of tan in terms of tan A shall also give the value of tan .
2 2
7 . 2 4 | Trigonometric Ratios, Identities and Equations

(d) If α is the least positive value of θ which satisfies two given trigonometric equations, then the general value
of θ will be 2nπ + α . For example, sin θ= sin α and cos= θ cos α , then, θ= 2nπ + α ,n ∈ I
sin (nπ + θ ) = ( −1) sin θ, n ∈ I
n
(i)
cos (nπ + θ ) = ( −1 ) cos θ, n ∈ I
n
(ii)
sin (nπ − θ ) = ( −1 ) sin θ, n ∈ I
n−1
(iii)

FORMULAE SHEET

Tangent and cotangent

sin θ cos θ
Identities tan θ = and cot θ =
cos θ sin θ

Product Identities sin θ× cosec θ = 1 , cos θ× sec θ = 1 , tan θ× cot θ = 1

Pythagorean Identities 2
+ 1 sec2 θ , 1 + cot=
sin2 θ + cos2 θ =1 , tan θ = 2
θ csc2 θ

sin ( −θ ) = − sin θ , cos ( −θ

= ) cos θ , tan ( −θ ) = − tan θ ,
Even/Odd Formulas
cot ( −θ ) = − cot θ , sec ( −θ
= ) sec θ , cosec ( −θ ) = − cosec θ

Periodic Formulas
sin ( 2n π + θ=
) sin θ , cos ( 2n π + θ=
) cos θ , tan(n π + =
θ) tan θ ,
(If n is an integer)
θ) cot θ , sec ( 2n π + θ=
cot(n π + = ) sec θ , cosec ( 2n π =
+ θ ) cosec θ

sin ( 2θ=
) 2sin θ cos θ , sin3
=θ 3sin θ − 4 sin3 θ
Double and Triple Angle
Formulas
cos ( 2=
θ ) cos2 θ − sin2 θ cos3
= θ 4 cos3 θ − 3cos θ

2 tan θ 3tan θ − tan3 θ

tan ( 2θ ) = , tan3θ =
1 − tan2 θ 1 − 3tan2 θ

π  π  π 
Complementary angles sin  ± θ=
 cos θ , cos  ±=θ   sin θ , tan  ±=θ   cot θ ,
 2   2   2 
π  π  π 
cot  − θ=
 tan θ , sec  = − θ  cosec θ , cosec  − θ=
 sec θ
 2   2   2 

1 1 1 − cos ( 2θ )
sin2=
θ 1 − cos ( 2θ )  , cos2=
θ 1 + cos ( 2θ )  , tan2 θ =
Half Angle 2   2   1 + cos ( 2θ )

sin ( α ± β=
) sin α cos β ± cos α sinβ ,
Sum and Difference
cos ( α ± β=
) cos α cos β  sin α sinβ ,
tan α ± tan β
tan ( α ± β ) = ,
1  tan α tan β
 M a them a ti cs | 7.25

1
sin α=
sin β cos ( α − β ) − cos ( α + β )  ,
Product to Sum 2 
1
sin α =
cos β sin ( α + β ) + sin ( α − β )  ,
2 
1
cos α=
cos β cos ( α − β ) + cos ( α + β )  ,
2 
1
cos α=
sin β sin ( α + β ) − sin ( α − β )  ,
2 

α+β α −β
Sum to Product sin α + sin β = 2sin   cos  ,
 2   2 

α +β α −β
sin α − sin β = 2cos   sin  
 2   2 

α+β α −β
cos α + cos β = 2cos   cos  
 2   2 

α +β α −β
cos α − cos β = −2sin   sin  
 2   2 