SOLUTION: How would I find cos(x-y) if cos x= 3/5 and cos y= 4/5 when the exact value needs to be between 0 and 90 degrees. I have tried to subtract 3/5 and 4/5 to get cos -1/5 but I don't k

Algebra ->  Trigonometry-basics -> SOLUTION: How would I find cos(x-y) if cos x= 3/5 and cos y= 4/5 when the exact value needs to be between 0 and 90 degrees. I have tried to subtract 3/5 and 4/5 to get cos -1/5 but I don't k      Log On


   



Question 855933: How would I find cos(x-y) if cos x= 3/5 and cos y= 4/5 when the exact value needs to be between 0 and 90 degrees. I have tried to subtract 3/5 and 4/5 to get cos -1/5 but I don't know what to do
Answer by stanbon(75887) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
How would I find cos(x-y) if cos x= 3/5 and cos y= 4/5 when the exact value needs to be between 0 and 90 degrees.
----
If cos(x) = 3/5, sin(x) = sqrt(5^2-3^2)/5 = 4/5
------
If cos(y) = 4/5, sin(y)= sqrt(5^2-4^2)/5 = 3/5
------
cos(x-y) = cos(x)cos(y)+ sin(x)sin(y) = (3/5)(4/5)+(4/5)(3/5)
------
= (12+12)/25 = 24/25
=========================
Cheers,
Stan H.