5.3. Calculate \( 2 \sin \theta+\cos \theta \) without the use of a calculator.
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To calculate \( 2 \sin \theta + \cos \theta \), you can use known values of sine and cosine at special angles. For example, if \( \theta = 30^\circ \) (or \( \pi/6 \) radians), we have \( \sin(30^\circ) = \frac{1}{2} \) and \( \cos(30^\circ) = \frac{\sqrt{3}}{2} \). Plugging these values in gives: \[ 2 \sin(30^\circ) + \cos(30^\circ) = 2 \times \frac{1}{2} + \frac{\sqrt{3}}{2} = 1 + \frac{\sqrt{3}}{2} = \frac{2}{2} + \frac{\sqrt{3}}{2} = \frac{2 + \sqrt{3}}{2}. \] You can also try this for other angles, like \( 0^\circ \) or \( 45^\circ \), to observe how the expression behaves differently. Another fun method is to look at the unit circle! Think of \( \theta \) as an angle that brings you to a point on the circle. The x-coordinate corresponds to \( \cos \theta \) and the y-coordinate to \( \sin \theta \). Rearranging the equation could provide insights, for instance, expressing \( 2 \sin \theta + \cos \theta \) in terms of one function. By examining your specific angle, you’ll find interesting values surfacing that might not be immediately obvious.