Question:easy

The number of solutions of the trigonometric equation $\sin^2 x - \sin x - 2 = 0$ in the interval $[0, 2\pi]$ is:

Show Hint

Always check the range constraints of trigonometric functions first. Since $-1 \le \sin x \le 1$, roots outside this interval are instantly discarded.
Updated On: Jun 3, 2026
  • $1$
  • $2$
  • $3$
  • $0$
Show Solution

The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Treat it as a quadratic.
The equation $\sin^2 x - \sin x - 2 = 0$ is a quadratic if we let $t = \sin x$. So it becomes $t^2 - t - 2 = 0$, which we can factorise.

Step 2: Factorise.
Find two numbers multiplying to $-2$ and adding to $-1$. They are $-2$ and $+1$.
\[ (t - 2)(t + 1) = 0 \] So $t = 2$ or $t = -1$.

Step 3: Check the first root.
Recall $\sin x$ can only lie between $-1$ and $1$. The value $t = 2$ means $\sin x = 2$, which is impossible. So this gives no solution.

Step 4: Check the second root.
The value $t = -1$ means $\sin x = -1$, which is allowed.

Step 5: Count solutions in the interval.
In the range $[0, 2\pi]$, the sine equals $-1$ only at $x = \frac{3\pi}{2}$. That is just one point.

Step 6: State the count.
So there is exactly $1$ solution.
\[ \boxed{1} \]
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