SOLUTION: Find cos(2 theta) Given : tan theta = 12/5, theta is in quadrant 3

Algebra ->  Trigonometry-basics -> SOLUTION: Find cos(2 theta) Given : tan theta = 12/5, theta is in quadrant 3      Log On


   



Question 810786: Find cos(2 theta)
Given : tan theta = 12/5, theta is in quadrant 3

Answer by stanbon(75887) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Find cos(2 theta)
Given : tan theta = 12/5, theta is in quadrant 3
--------
Note: Both x and y are negative in QIII
----
Since tan = y/x = 12/5, y = -12 and x = -5
------------
Then r = sqrt[12^2+5^2] = sqrt[169] = 13
------------------------
cos = x/r = -5/13
sin = y/4 = -12/13
-----
Your Problem::
cos(2 t) = cos^2(t)-sin^2(t) = (5/13)^2 - (12/13)^2 = (25-144)/169 = -119/169
==============
Cheers,
Stan H.
==============