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MathsMediumClass 11

Properties — sin⁻¹ + cos⁻¹ = π/2, etc.

Inverse Trigonometric Functions

3

JEE Qs

8%

Hard

45

min

Always check the domain of the argument 'x' for each inverse trigonometric function before applying these properties to avoid common errors.

🧮 Key Formulas

sin⁻¹x + cos⁻¹x = π/2, for x ∈ [-1, 1]
tan⁻¹x + cot⁻¹x = π/2, for x ∈ R
sec⁻¹x + cosec⁻¹x = π/2, for x ∈ R - (-1, 1) or |x| ≥ 1

✅ Key Points for JEE

  • 1These identities are valid only for the principal value branch of the respective inverse trigonometric functions and within their specified domains.
  • 2Always verify that the argument 'x' falls within the valid domain for each function before applying these properties.
  • 3These properties are crucial for simplifying expressions involving inverse trigonometric functions, especially in calculus (differentiation, integration) and solving equations.
  • 4Understanding the underlying proof (e.g., let sin⁻¹x = θ, then x = sinθ = cos(π/2 - θ)) helps in recalling the properties and their domain restrictions.

⚠️ Common Mistakes

  • Ignoring the domain restrictions for 'x', leading to incorrect application of the identity.
  • Confusing these sum properties with other identities, such as those involving sums like tan⁻¹x + tan⁻¹y.
  • Assuming the properties hold true for arguments outside the principal value range without proper justification or conversion.

NCERT Chapters

  • Class 12 Maths Ch 2: Inverse Trigonometric Functions