Skip to main content
Ch. 2 - Graphs of the Trigonometric Functions; Inverse Trigonometric Functions
Chapter 2, Problem 27

In Exercises 25–28, use each graph to obtain the graph of the corresponding reciprocal function, cosecant or secant. Give the equation of the function for the graph that you obtain.

Verified step by step guidance
1
insert step 1: Identify the original trigonometric function from the graph. It could be either sine or cosine, as these are the functions whose reciprocals are cosecant and secant, respectively.
insert step 2: Determine the key points of the original function, such as the x-intercepts, maximum, and minimum points. These will help in sketching the reciprocal function.
insert step 3: For the cosecant function, which is the reciprocal of sine, plot vertical asymptotes at each x-intercept of the sine function. For the secant function, which is the reciprocal of cosine, plot vertical asymptotes at each x-intercept of the cosine function.
insert step 4: Sketch the reciprocal function by drawing curves that approach the vertical asymptotes and pass through the maximum and minimum points of the original function. The curves should be U-shaped or inverted U-shaped, depending on the section of the graph.
insert step 5: Write the equation of the reciprocal function. If the original function was y = sin(x), the reciprocal function is y = csc(x). If the original function was y = cos(x), the reciprocal function is y = sec(x).

Verified Solution

Video duration:
6m
This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.
Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Reciprocal Functions

Reciprocal functions are derived from basic trigonometric functions by taking the reciprocal of their values. For example, the cosecant function is the reciprocal of the sine function, defined as csc(x) = 1/sin(x). Understanding how to transform the graph of a function into its reciprocal is essential for analyzing the behavior of cosecant and secant functions.
Recommended video:
3:23
Secant, Cosecant, & Cotangent on the Unit Circle

Graphing Trigonometric Functions

Graphing trigonometric functions involves plotting the values of sine, cosine, and their reciprocals over a specified interval. Key features to consider include the amplitude, period, and asymptotes. Recognizing how the graph of a function changes when moving to its reciprocal is crucial for accurately sketching cosecant and secant graphs.
Recommended video:
6:04
Introduction to Trigonometric Functions

Asymptotes in Trigonometric Functions

Asymptotes are lines that a graph approaches but never touches. For reciprocal trigonometric functions like cosecant and secant, vertical asymptotes occur where the original sine or cosine function equals zero, as these points lead to undefined values in the reciprocal. Identifying these asymptotes is vital for understanding the overall shape and behavior of the reciprocal function's graph.
Recommended video:
4:42
Asymptotes