Table of contents
- 0. Review of College Algebra4h 43m
- 1. Measuring Angles39m
- 2. Trigonometric Functions on Right Triangles2h 5m
- 3. Unit Circle1h 19m
- 4. Graphing Trigonometric Functions1h 19m
- 5. Inverse Trigonometric Functions and Basic Trigonometric Equations1h 41m
- 6. Trigonometric Identities and More Equations2h 34m
- 7. Non-Right Triangles1h 38m
- 8. Vectors2h 25m
- 9. Polar Equations2h 5m
- 10. Parametric Equations1h 6m
- 11. Graphing Complex Numbers1h 7m
2. Trigonometric Functions on Right Triangles
Solving Right Triangles
8:19 minutes
Problem 23b
Textbook Question
Textbook QuestionIn Exercises 17–24, graph two periods of the given cotangent function. y = 3 cot(x + π/2)
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Cotangent Function
The cotangent function, denoted as cot(x), is the reciprocal of the tangent function. It is defined as cot(x) = cos(x)/sin(x). The cotangent function has a period of π, meaning it repeats its values every π units along the x-axis. Understanding its behavior, including asymptotes and zeros, is crucial for graphing.
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Phase Shift
Phase shift refers to the horizontal translation of a trigonometric function. In the function y = 3 cot(x + π/2), the term (x + π/2) indicates a leftward shift of π/2 units. This shift alters the starting point of the graph, affecting where the function's key features, such as asymptotes and intercepts, occur.
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Amplitude and Vertical Stretch
In the function y = 3 cot(x + π/2), the coefficient 3 represents a vertical stretch of the cotangent function. While cotangent does not have an amplitude in the traditional sense (as it extends to infinity), this factor affects the steepness of the graph. Understanding how vertical scaling influences the graph's appearance is essential for accurate representation.
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