In Exercises 17–24, graph two periods of the given cotangent function. y = 1/2 cot 2x
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4. Graphing Trigonometric Functions
Graphs of Tangent and Cotangent Functions
Problem 23
Textbook Question
In Exercises 17–24, graph two periods of the given cotangent function. y = 3 cot(x + π/2)
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall the general form of the cotangent function: \(y = A \cot(Bx + C)\), where \(A\) affects the amplitude (vertical stretch), \(B\) affects the period, and \(C\) is the phase shift.
Identify the parameters in the given function \(y = 3 \cot(x + \frac{\pi}{2})\): here, \(A = 3\), \(B = 1\), and \(C = \frac{\pi}{2}\).
Calculate the period of the cotangent function using the formula \(\text{Period} = \frac{\pi}{|B|}\). Since \(B = 1\), the period is \(\pi\).
Determine the phase shift by solving \(Bx + C = 0\), which gives \(x = -\frac{C}{B} = -\frac{\pi}{2}\). This means the graph is shifted to the left by \(\frac{\pi}{2}\).
To graph two periods, plot the cotangent function starting from \(x = -\frac{\pi}{2}\) and extend the graph over an interval of length \(2 \times \pi = 2\pi\). Mark key points such as zeros, vertical asymptotes, and the shape of the curve scaled by the amplitude 3.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Cotangent Function and Its Properties
The cotangent function, cot(x), is the reciprocal of the tangent function and is defined as cos(x)/sin(x). It has vertical asymptotes where sin(x) = 0, i.e., at integer multiples of π, and its period is π. Understanding its shape and behavior is essential for graphing.
Recommended video:
Introduction to Cotangent Graph
Phase Shift in Trigonometric Functions
A phase shift occurs when the input variable x is replaced by (x + c), shifting the graph horizontally. For y = cot(x + π/2), the graph shifts left by π/2 units. Recognizing this shift helps in correctly positioning the graph on the x-axis.
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Phase Shifts
Amplitude and Vertical Stretch
The coefficient 3 in y = 3 cot(x + π/2) vertically stretches the cotangent graph by a factor of 3. While cotangent has no maximum or minimum values, this stretch affects the steepness of the curve, making it rise and fall more sharply.
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Stretches and Shrinks of Functions
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