How to prove $\cos \frac{2\pi }{5}=\frac{-1+\sqrt{5}}{4}$? I would like to find the apothem of a regular pentagon. It follows from 
$$\cos \dfrac{2\pi }{5}=\dfrac{-1+\sqrt{5}}{4}.$$
But how can this be proved (geometrically or trigonometrically)? 

Look up the "construction of a regular pentagon" using the straightedge and compass. If you keep track of each step in this construction, you will find that the angle $72^\circ$ comes up in a few places, and this expression follows from it.
It's a fun exercise-- you should do it.
