Question
GeneralGeneralGeneral

Does sin 180 = a sin a?

Verified Answer

No, sin(180° - a) = sin(a), not sin(180°) = a × sin(a). This is the supplementary angle identity in trigonometry.

The correct trigonometric identity is: sin(180° - a) = sin(a)

This means:

  • Sine of a supplementary angle equals the sine of the original angle
  • Example: sin(150°) = sin(30°) = 0.5
  • This reflects the symmetry of the sine function

Note that sin(180°) alone equals 0, not a multiplied by sin(a).

Importants Points:

  • Correct identity: sin(180° - a) = sin(a)
  • Reason: Supplementary angle property
  • sin(180°) = 0 (a specific value)

Is cos(nπ) Equal to (-1)^n?

Yes, cos(nπ) = (-1)^n where n is any integer—this is a fundamental trigonometric identity.

This identity works because:

  • When n is even: cos(nπ) = 1, and (-1)^n = 1
  • When n is odd: cos(nπ) = -1, and (-1)^n = -1

Examples:

  • n = 0: cos(0) = 1, (-1)^0 = 1 ✓
  • n = 1: cos(π) = -1, (-1)^1 = -1 ✓
  • n = 2: cos(2π) = 1, (-1)^2 = 1 ✓
  • n = 3: cos(3π) = -1, (-1)^3 = -1 ✓

Importants Points:

  • Identity: cos(nπ) = (-1)^n for integer n
  • Pattern: Alternates between 1 and -1
  • Applications: Fourier series, wave functions, calculus