Question:medium

If $2 \cos \theta = x + \frac{1}{x}$ then $2 \cos 3\theta =$

Show Hint

This is a general result in trigonometry. If $x + \frac{1}{x} = 2 \cos \theta$, then for any integer $n$, $x^n + \frac{1}{x^n} = 2 \cos n\theta$. Remembering this pattern saves significant time in higher-level math exams.
  • $x^3 - \frac{1}{x^3}$
  • $-x^3 + \frac{1}{x^3}$
  • $x^3 + \frac{1}{x^3}$
  • $x^2 + \frac{1}{x^3}$
Show Solution

The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

1. Complex Number Representation: Let $x = \cos \theta + i \sin \theta$. According to the properties of complex numbers: $$\frac{1}{x} = \cos \theta - i \sin \theta$$ Adding these two expressions: $$x + \frac{1}{x} = (\cos \theta + i \sin \theta) + (\cos \theta - i \sin \theta) = 2 \cos \theta$$ This matches our given condition.

2. Applying De Moivre's Theorem: De Moivre's Theorem states that $( \cos \theta + i \sin \theta )^n = \cos n\theta + i \sin n\theta$. Therefore: $$x^3 = (\cos \theta + i \sin \theta)^3 = \cos 3\theta + i \sin 3\theta$$ $$\frac{1}{x^3} = (\cos \theta - i \sin \theta)^3 = \cos 3\theta - i \sin 3\theta$$

3. Summation for $2 \cos 3\theta$: Now, add $x^3$ and $\frac{1}{x^3}$: $$x^3 + \frac{1}{x^3} = (\cos 3\theta + i \sin 3\theta) + (\cos 3\theta - i \sin 3\theta)$$ $$x^3 + \frac{1}{x^3} = 2 \cos 3\theta$$ Thus, the value of $2 \cos 3\theta$ is $x^3 + \frac{1}{x^3}$.
Was this answer helpful?
0