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MathsMediumClass 11

Compound Angles — Addition formulas

Trigonometric Functions & Equations

8

JEE Qs

8%

Hard

75

min

Mastering the compound angle formulas and their reverse application is fundamental for almost all advanced trigonometry topics, so prioritize deep understanding and quick recall.

🧮 Key Formulas

sin(A+B) = sin A cos B + cos A sin B
sin(A-B) = sin A cos B - cos A sin B
cos(A+B) = cos A cos B - sin A sin B
cos(A-B) = cos A cos B + sin A sin B
tan(A+B) = (tan A + tan B) / (1 - tan A tan B)
tan(A-B) = (tan A - tan B) / (1 + tan A tan B)
cot(A+B) = (cot A cot B - 1) / (cot B + cot A)
cot(A-B) = (cot A cot B + 1) / (cot B - cot A)
a cos x + b sin x = R cos(x-α) = R sin(x+β) where R = sqrt(a^2 + b^2)

✅ Key Points for JEE

  • 1Memorize all addition/subtraction formulas for sin, cos, tan, and cot thoroughly for quick recall and error-free application.
  • 2Be proficient in applying these formulas in reverse to simplify expressions, e.g., recognizing 'sin A cos B + cos A sin B' as 'sin(A+B)'.
  • 3Practice calculating exact trigonometric values for angles like 15°, 75°, 105°, etc., by expressing them as sums or differences of standard angles (e.g., 45° ± 30°).
  • 4Understand the conditions under which tan(A±B) and cot(A±B) formulas are valid (denominators not zero), especially when dealing with general solutions.

⚠️ Common Mistakes

  • Incorrectly using signs in formulas, particularly for cos(A+B) and tan(A-B).
  • Mistaking sin(A+B) for sin A + sin B (and similar errors for other functions), which is a fundamental misconception.
  • Errors in algebraic manipulation while simplifying complex trigonometric expressions involving compound angles.
  • Forgetting to check the domain conditions for tan and cot functions (e.g., A, B, A±B not being odd multiples of π/2 for tan).

NCERT Chapters

  • Class 11 Mathematics Ch 3: Trigonometric Functions