Sum and Difference Formulas

The distributive property does not apply across functions. Below are several examples with which we can experiment. The Trig Functions, being functions, show the same restrictions as polynomial functions; plus, their periodic nature adds to the problem.

Polynomial Functions (Square, Greatest Integer, and Square Root)

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Trig - Sum of Angles

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Trig - Difference of Angles

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Trig - Double Angles

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Trig - Half Angles

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Mark Fowler, Grafton HS, Created with GeoGebra