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QuestionMathematics

Find the exact value of cos(2π/ 3) in its simplest form with a rational denominator.
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Answer

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Step 1:
I'll solve this step-by-step using the precise LaTeX formatting guidelines:

Step 2:
: Recall the cosine of special angle formula

The angle $$2\pi/3$$ is a standard angle in trigonometry.
We can solve this by understanding its position on the unit circle.

Step 3:
: Analyze the angle's location

2\pi/3$$ is equivalent to $$120$$ degrees.
This is in the second quadrant of the unit circle.

Step 4:
: Use the cosine double angle formula

We know that $$\cos(2\pi/3) = \cos(120^{\circ})

Step 5:
: Recall the cosine value for 120 degrees

\cos(120^{\circ}) = -\frac{1}{2}

Step 6:
: Verify the result

This can be confirmed by the unit circle coordinates or by trigonometric identities.

Final Answer

The solution is exact, in its simplest form, and has a rational denominator as requested.