Mathematics 9709 · AS & A Level · Trigonometry

Trigonometry — practice question

(a)[3]

Show that $$\cos^4 \theta - \sin^4 \theta - 4 \sin^2 \theta \cos^2 \theta \equiv \cos^2 2\theta + \cos 2\theta - 1.$$ is true.

(b)[3]

Solve the equation $$\cos^4 \alpha - \sin^4 \alpha = 4 \sin^2 \alpha \cos^2 \alpha$$ within the interval $0^\circ \leq \alpha \leq 180^\circ$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 6-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: Use double-angle identities to rewrite either $\cos^4\theta$ or $\sin^4\theta$.

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