Graph of trigonometric functions

In summary, the conversation discusses the effect of multiplying an arbitrary constant, 'p', to various trigonometric functions and how it affects the graph. It is noted that for the function y = pcosx, the amplitude of the wave will increase by a factor of p. The same concept can be applied to other functions such as y = pex and y = p sin-1x. It is also mentioned that when multiplying a constant to a function, the values of the function in the domain will be multiplied by that constant.
  • #1
ItsAnshumaan
13
0
Member warned that homework template must be used
This is not a homework question but a general doubt.

Suppose we have a function y = pcosx, where 'p' is an arbitrary constant. So my question is how will the graph of this function change with different values of 'p'?

This doubt can also be extended for other functions like y = pex, y = p sin-1x etc, if the concept remains same.
 
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  • #2
ItsAnshumaan said:
This is not a homework question but a general doubt.

Suppose we have a function y = pcosx, where 'p' is an arbitrary constant. So my question is how will the graph of this function change with different values of 'p'?

This doubt can also be extended for other functions like y = pex, y = p sin-1x etc, if the concept remains same.
Even though you say it's not a Homework problem, you should use the Homework template when you post in a Homework Forum.

At any rate:
What do you think is the effect on the graph, y = cos(x), if you multiply the cosine function by a constant, p, giving the resulting graph y = p⋅cos(x) ?

It may help to pick some value for p, such as p = 2 .
 
  • #3
SammyS said:
Even though you say it's not a Homework problem, you should use the Homework template when you post in a Homework Forum.

At any rate:
What do you think is the effect on the graph, y = cos(x), if you multiply the cosine function by a constant, p, giving the resulting graph y = p⋅cos(x) ?

It may help to pick some value for p, such as p = 2 .

When p is 2, the y co-ordinate will be double of what it should had been in normal cosine graph. Hence I'm assuming that the amplitude of the wave will increase.
 
  • #4
ItsAnshumaan said:
When p is 2, the y co-ordinate will be double of what it should had been in normal cosine graph. Hence I'm assuming that the amplitude of the wave will increase.

You are right. More generally, the cosine values has values in [-1,1] . When you consider the function f(x) = p*cos(x), f(x) has values in [-p,p].
Concerning other functions. Generally, when you have a function g(x), then p*g(x) will be the function where for every a in the domain of g, g(a) is multiplied with p.
 
  • #5
Math_QED said:
You are right. More generally, the cosine values has values in [-1,1] . When you consider the function f(x) = p*cos(x), f(x) has values in [-p,p].
Concerning other functions. Generally, when you have a function g(x), then p*g(x) will be the function where for every a in the domain of g, g(a) is multiplied with p.
Thank you for the help :D
 

Related to Graph of trigonometric functions

1. What is a graph of trigonometric functions?

A graph of trigonometric functions is a visual representation of the relationship between the values of a trigonometric function (such as sine, cosine, or tangent) and their corresponding angle values.

2. Why are trigonometric graphs important?

Trigonometric graphs are important because they help us visualize and understand the behavior and properties of trigonometric functions. They are used in various fields such as mathematics, physics, engineering, and navigation.

3. How do you read a trigonometric graph?

To read a trigonometric graph, first identify the axes and their units. The x-axis usually represents the angle values in degrees or radians, while the y-axis represents the values of the trigonometric function. Then, plot the points on the graph and connect them to form a curve. You can also use the graph to find the values of the function at specific angles.

4. What are the key features of a trigonometric graph?

The key features of a trigonometric graph include the amplitude (the height of the curve), the period (the length of one complete cycle), and the phase shift (the horizontal shift of the curve). These features help us identify and compare different trigonometric functions.

5. How do you sketch a trigonometric graph?

To sketch a trigonometric graph, you can start by plotting the key points, such as the maximum and minimum values, on the graph. Then, use these points to sketch the curve, making sure to maintain the amplitude, period, and phase shift. You can also use a table of values to plot more points and get a more accurate graph.

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