Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Cosecant Function
The cosecant function, denoted as csc(x), is the reciprocal of the sine function. It is defined as csc(x) = 1/sin(x). The cosecant function has vertical asymptotes where the sine function is zero, which occurs at integer multiples of π. Understanding the behavior of the sine function is crucial for graphing cosecant, as it directly influences the shape and position of the cosecant graph.
Recommended video:
Graphs of Secant and Cosecant Functions
Graphing Periodic Functions
Periodic functions repeat their values in regular intervals, known as periods. For the cosecant function, the period is 2π, meaning the graph will repeat every 2π units along the x-axis. When graphing y = 3 csc(x), it is important to recognize that the amplitude is affected by the coefficient (3 in this case), which stretches the graph vertically, impacting the maximum and minimum values of the function.
Recommended video:
Period of Sine and Cosine Functions
Vertical Asymptotes
Vertical asymptotes are lines that the graph approaches but never touches or crosses. For the cosecant function, vertical asymptotes occur at the points where the sine function equals zero, specifically at x = nπ, where n is an integer. These asymptotes indicate the values of x where the cosecant function is undefined, and they are essential for accurately sketching the graph of y = 3 csc(x).
Recommended video: