Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Trigonometry

Trigonometry — practice question

(a)[3]

Rewrite $5\sin x - 3\cos x$ in the form $R\sin(x - \alpha)$, where $R > 0$ and $0 < \alpha < \frac{1}{2}\pi$. State the exact value of $R$ and give $\alpha$ correct to $2$ decimal places.

(b)[2]

Hence state the largest and smallest possible values of $(5\sin x - 3\cos x)^2$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 5-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: The value of $R$ is $\sqrt{34}$.

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