Simplify each expression.
±√[(1 + cos 18x)/2]

Key Concepts

Cosine Function

The cosine function is a fundamental trigonometric function that relates the angle of a right triangle to the ratio of the length of the adjacent side to the hypotenuse. It is periodic and oscillates between -1 and 1. Understanding the properties of the cosine function is essential for simplifying expressions involving cosine, such as the one in the question.

Half-Angle Identity

The half-angle identities are trigonometric identities that express trigonometric functions of half an angle in terms of the functions of the original angle. For cosine, the half-angle identity is cos(θ/2) = ±√[(1 + cos θ)/2]. This identity is crucial for simplifying expressions like ±√[(1 + cos 18x)/2] by recognizing it as a half-angle formula.

Square Root Properties

Square root properties involve the rules governing the manipulation of square roots, including the principle that √(a/b) = √a/√b and √(a) * √(a) = a. These properties are important for simplifying expressions under the square root, allowing for the extraction of factors and simplification of trigonometric expressions effectively.