Math Problem Statement

The function graphed to the right is of the form y = a sec(bx) + c or y = a csc(bx) + c for some a ≠ 0, b > 0. Determine the equation of the function.

Solution

The given graph shows a function that looks like a secant or cosecant function, based on the vertical asymptotes and the general shape of the curve. Let's analyze it step by step:

Observations:

  • There are vertical asymptotes at x=π2x = -\frac{\pi}{2} and x=π2x = \frac{\pi}{2}, which is a common feature of the secant or cosecant functions.
  • The shape between the asymptotes is an upward-opening curve, which resembles the secant function, as the basic secant function y=sec(x)y = \sec(x) has similar behavior.

Function form:

The general form given is either:

  • y=asec(bx)+cy = a \sec(bx) + c, or
  • y=acsc(bx)+cy = a \csc(bx) + c.

From the graph:

  • The asymptotes indicate a period of π\pi. In the secant function y=sec(bx)y = \sec(bx), the period is 2πb\frac{2\pi}{b}. Since the period here is π\pi, we set b=2b = 2.
  • The secant function's basic graph has an upward curve between asymptotes and looks like the one presented. This confirms we are dealing with a secant function.
  • The graph is symmetric around the y-axis, and the vertical shift appears to be zero, so c=0c = 0.

Now, to determine the amplitude:

  • From the graph, the curve reaches a maximum of 10 and a minimum of -10, suggesting a=10a = 10.

Final Equation:

The equation of the function is: y=10sec(2x)y = 10 \sec(2x)

Would you like more details, or do you have any questions? Here are some related questions to consider:

  1. How does the period of a secant function depend on the value of bb?
  2. What are the key differences between secant and cosecant graphs?
  3. How do vertical asymptotes help determine the form of trigonometric functions?
  4. What role does the amplitude aa play in the graph of a secant function?
  5. How can we shift the secant function vertically or horizontally?

Tip: For secant functions, remember that their vertical asymptotes occur where the corresponding cosine function equals zero.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Graph Analysis
Secant Function
Periodicity

Formulas

y = a sec(bx) + c
y = a csc(bx) + c
Period of secant function: 2π/b

Theorems

Vertical Asymptote in Secant Function
Periodicity in Trigonometric Functions

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12