Prove that
\(\sin ^{2}\dfrac{\pi }{6}+\cos ^{2}\dfrac{\pi }{3}-\tan ^{2}\dfrac{\pi }{4}=-\dfrac{1}{2}\)
Concept Used
This problem is based on the standard trigonometric values of special angles. Angles such as \(30^\circ\), \(45^\circ\), and \(60^\circ\) (or \(\frac{\pi}{6}, \frac{\pi}{4}, \frac{\pi}{3}\)) frequently appear in trigonometric identities and simplifications.
Important standard values:
- \(\sin 30^\circ = \dfrac{1}{2}\)
- \(\cos 60^\circ = \dfrac{1}{2}\)
- \(\tan 45^\circ = 1\)
By substituting these known values into the expression, the identity can be verified through simple algebraic simplification.
Solution Roadmap
- Convert radian angles into familiar degree angles.
- Substitute standard trigonometric values.
- Square each term carefully.
- Simplify the resulting arithmetic expression.
- Verify that LHS equals RHS.
Illustration of Standard Angles
Solution
We need to prove
\[ \sin ^{2}\dfrac{\pi}{6}+\cos ^{2}\dfrac{\pi}{3}-\tan ^{2}\dfrac{\pi}{4}=-\dfrac{1}{2} \]
Start with the left-hand side.
\[ \begin{aligned} \text{LHS} &= \sin ^2\dfrac{\pi}{6} + \cos ^2\dfrac{\pi}{3} - \tan ^2\dfrac{\pi}{4} \end{aligned} \]
Using standard trigonometric values:
\[ \begin{aligned} \sin 30^\circ &= \dfrac{1}{2}, \\ \cos 60^\circ &= \dfrac{1}{2}, \\ \tan 45^\circ &= 1 \end{aligned} \]
Substituting these values:
\[ \begin{aligned} \text{LHS} &= \left(\dfrac{1}{2}\right)^2 + \left(\dfrac{1}{2}\right)^2 - 1 \\ &= \dfrac{1}{4} + \dfrac{1}{4} - 1 \\ &= \dfrac{1}{2} - 1 \\ &= -\dfrac{1}{2} \end{aligned} \]
Thus,
\[ \text{LHS} = \text{RHS} \]
Hence the identity is proved.
Significance for Board and Competitive Examinations
- Questions involving evaluation of trigonometric expressions using special angles are common in CBSE and other state board examinations.
- Competitive examinations such as JEE, NEET, BITSAT and NDA frequently test quick recall of standard trigonometric values.
- Mastery of these values helps students simplify complex trigonometric identities and solve problems involving angles in radians.
- Such problems strengthen conceptual understanding required for advanced topics like trigonometric equations, identities, and calculus applications.