2024 · Q12
What is the difference between the greatest value and the least value of cos²θ + 3sin²θ + 2 ?
Elementary MathematicsTrigonometry
- A4
- B3
- C2
- D1
Explanation
Rewriting gives cos²θ + 3sin²θ + 2 = 3 + 2sin²θ. As θ goes from 0 to π/2, sin²θ ranges over [0, 1], so the expression ranges over [3, 5]. The greatest-minus-least difference is 5 − 3 = 2, option (c).