Math Problem Statement

Choose the correct graph of the function y = cos(x).

Solution

The question asks to "Choose the correct graph" of the function y=cosxy = \cos x. Let's analyze the provided graphs:

The cosine function, y=cosxy = \cos x, has the following characteristics:

  • Period: 2π2\pi
  • Amplitude: 1 (meaning the graph oscillates between 1 and -1)
  • Key points: At x=0x = 0, cos(0)=1\cos(0) = 1; at x=π2x = \frac{\pi}{2}, cos(π2)=0\cos\left(\frac{\pi}{2}\right) = 0; at x=πx = \pi, cos(π)=1\cos(\pi) = -1; and it continues this oscillating behavior between 1-1 and 11.

Identifying the correct graph:

Looking at the options, option C matches the expected shape of the cosine function:

  • The graph starts at y=1y = 1 when x=0x = 0.
  • It crosses the x-axis at x=π2x = \frac{\pi}{2}.
  • It reaches a minimum value of y=1y = -1 at x=πx = \pi.
  • It follows the correct oscillation pattern within the range 0x2π0 \leq x \leq 2\pi.

Therefore, C is the correct answer.

Would you like more details about the cosine function, or do you have any further questions?

Here are 5 related questions to deepen your understanding:

  1. What is the amplitude and period of y=sinxy = \sin x compared to y=cosxy = \cos x?
  2. How does the phase shift affect the graph of a cosine function?
  3. What would the graph of y=cos(2x)y = \cos(2x) look like compared to y=cosxy = \cos x?
  4. How can the graph of y=cosxy = \cos x be translated vertically?
  5. What is the relationship between the graphs of y=sinxy = \sin x and y=cosxy = \cos x?

Tip: The graph of y=cosxy = \cos x is periodic, meaning it repeats its shape every 2π2\pi. Understanding this periodicity helps in recognizing transformations and translations of trigonometric functions.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Cosine Function
Graphing Trigonometric Functions

Formulas

y = cos(x)
Amplitude = 1
Period = 2π

Theorems

Cosine Function Properties
Oscillatory Nature of Trigonometric Functions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12