Math Problem Statement

Find an equation for the graph shown, in the form y = A sin(ωx) or y = A cos(ωx).

Solution

The graph in the image is of a cosine function that is vertically flipped and shifted. Let's break down the information provided by the graph and construct the equation in the form y=Acos(ωx)y = A \cos(\omega x).

  1. Amplitude (A): The graph reaches a maximum of 10 and a minimum of -10, which means the amplitude is 10. The negative sign indicates that the graph is reflected vertically, so A=10A = -10.

  2. Period (T): The period is the horizontal distance required for the graph to complete one full cycle. From the graph, it completes one full cycle from x=2πx = -2\pi to x=6πx = 6\pi. Thus, the period is 6π(2π)=8π6\pi - (-2\pi) = 8\pi.

    The period TT of a cosine function is related to ω\omega by the formula: T=2πωT = \frac{2\pi}{\omega} Setting T=8πT = 8\pi, we get: 8π=2πω8\pi = \frac{2\pi}{\omega} Solving for ω\omega: ω=2π8π=14\omega = \frac{2\pi}{8\pi} = \frac{1}{4}

  3. Equation: Now, using these values, the equation of the cosine function is: y=10cos(14x)y = -10 \cos\left(\frac{1}{4}x\right)

Thus, the equation for the graph is: y=10cos(14x)y = -10 \cos\left(\frac{1}{4}x\right)

Would you like more details or have any questions about this? Here are 5 related questions to expand your understanding:

  1. How does the amplitude affect the graph of a trigonometric function?
  2. What does it mean when a cosine function is reflected vertically?
  3. How can you determine the phase shift of a cosine or sine function?
  4. What are the differences between sine and cosine functions in terms of their graphs?
  5. How do changes in ω\omega affect the frequency of a cosine or sine function?

Tip: The phase shift of a trigonometric function occurs when the graph is shifted horizontally. Keep an eye on this when analyzing equations like Asin(ωx+ϕ)A \sin(\omega x + \phi).

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Graphing Trigonometric Functions
Amplitude
Period

Formulas

y = A cos(ωx)
Period: T = 2π/ω
Amplitude: A

Theorems

Cosine function periodicity
Amplitude and period adjustments in trigonometric functions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12