Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Secant Function
The secant function, denoted as sec(x), is the reciprocal of the cosine function. It is defined as sec(x) = 1/cos(x). The secant function has vertical asymptotes where the cosine function is zero, leading to undefined values. Understanding the behavior of the secant function is crucial for graphing it accurately, especially in identifying its periodic nature and asymptotic behavior.
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Graphing Trigonometric Functions
Graphing trigonometric functions involves plotting their values over a specified interval. Key features to consider include amplitude, period, phase shift, and vertical shift. For the secant function, the period is determined by the coefficient of x in the argument, which affects how frequently the function repeats. In this case, the period is 2, as the function is scaled by π, leading to a period of 2/π.
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Transformations of Functions
Transformations of functions involve shifting, stretching, or reflecting the graph of a function. In the given function y = -1/2 sec(πx), the negative sign indicates a reflection across the x-axis, while the factor of -1/2 represents a vertical compression. Understanding these transformations is essential for accurately sketching the graph, as they modify the basic shape of the secant function.
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