Math Problem Statement

The curve above is the graph of a sinusoidal function. It goes through the points (-11, 0) and (3, 0). Find a sinusoidal function that matches the given graph. If needed, you can enter π=3.1416... as 'pi' in your answer, otherwise use at least 3 decimal digits.

Solution

To solve the problem from the uploaded image, we need to identify the sinusoidal function f(x)f(x) that matches the graph provided. Here's the process:

Step 1: General form of the sinusoidal function

The general form of a sinusoidal function is: f(x)=Asin(B(xC))+Df(x) = A \sin(B(x - C)) + D or f(x)=Acos(B(xC))+Df(x) = A \cos(B(x - C)) + D where:

  • AA is the amplitude,
  • BB determines the period (Period=2πB\text{Period} = \frac{2\pi}{B}),
  • CC is the horizontal shift,
  • DD is the vertical shift.

From the graph:

  • The graph oscillates between -2 and 2, so the amplitude A=2A = 2.
  • The midline (vertical shift) is D=0D = 0, as the graph is centered around the x-axis.
  • The period can be determined from the x-values of two consecutive peaks or troughs.

Step 2: Period and BB

From the graph:

  • One full cycle occurs between 11-11 and 33, a span of 1414 units.
  • Thus, the period P=14P = 14, and B=2πP=2π14=π7B = \frac{2\pi}{P} = \frac{2\pi}{14} = \frac{\pi}{7}.

Step 3: Phase shift (CC)

The graph crosses the midline (0) at x=11x = -11 going upward. This point indicates the start of the sine wave, so C=11C = -11.


Step 4: Final equation

Now substitute the values into the sine form: f(x)=2sin(π7(x+11))f(x) = 2 \sin\left(\frac{\pi}{7}(x + 11)\right)

Alternatively, if you prefer a cosine function: f(x)=2cos(π7(x+18))f(x) = 2 \cos\left(\frac{\pi}{7}(x + 18)\right) where x=18x = -18 represents a cosine peak.


Let me know if you'd like a detailed breakdown of any step! Here are some related questions for further exploration:

  1. How do you calculate the amplitude of a sinusoidal function from a graph?
  2. What is the difference between a sine and cosine function graphically?
  3. How do horizontal shifts affect the equation of a sinusoidal function?
  4. Can a sinusoidal function have a vertical shift different from zero? How does it affect the graph?
  5. How do you find the phase shift CC if the graph doesn’t pass through the origin?

Tip:

When working with sinusoidal graphs, always check the midline, amplitude, and period first—they form the foundation for identifying the function's equation.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Trigonometry
Sinusoidal Functions
Graph Analysis

Formulas

f(x) = A sin(B(x - C)) + D
f(x) = A cos(B(x - C)) + D
Period = 2π / B

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 10-12