Chapter 7: Problem 67
For the following exercises, simplify the expression, and then graph both expressions as functions to verify the graphs are identical. $$ \cos \left(\frac{\pi}{2}-x\right) $$
Short Answer
Expert verified
The expression simplifies to \(\sin(x)\), and both graphs are identical.
Step by step solution
01
Identify the Trigonometric Identity
Recognize that the expression \(\cos\left(\frac{\pi}{2}-x\right)\) can be simplified using a known trigonometric identity: the co-function identity. The co-function identity for cosine states that \(\cos\left(\frac{\pi}{2} - x\right) = \sin(x)\). This means our expression simplifies directly to \(\sin(x)\).
02
Simplify the Expression
Using the co-function identity from Step 1, we simplify \(\cos\left(\frac{\pi}{2}-x\right)\) to \(\sin(x)\). So, our simplified expression is \(\sin(x)\).
03
Graph the Original Function
Graph the function \(f(x) = \cos\left(\frac{\pi}{2}-x\right)\). This function describes the cosine of the complement of \(x\), which, as we've simplified, behaves the same as \(\sin(x)\).
04
Graph the Simplified Function
Graph the function \(g(x) = \sin(x)\). The graph of this function is a familiar sine wave, which oscillates between -1 and 1, with periods occurring every \(2\pi\) units.
05
Validate by Comparison
Compare the graphs of \(f(x) = \cos\left(\frac{\pi}{2}-x\right)\) and \(g(x) = \sin(x)\). Both should be identical, confirming our simplification as they both resemble the standard sine wave shape. This validates that our simplified expression is accurate.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Co-function Identities
In trigonometry, co-function identities are relationships between trigonometric functions of complementary angles. Complementary angles are two angles that add up to \(\frac{\pi}{2}\) radians (or 90 degrees). For these angles, the trigonometric identities relate sine and cosine functions, as well as tangent and cotangent, secant and cosecant. Here is the key point:
- \(\cos\left(\frac{\pi}{2} - x\right) = \sin(x)\)
- \(\sin\left(\frac{\pi}{2} - x\right) = \cos(x)\)
- \(\tan\left(\frac{\pi}{2} - x\right) = \cot(x)\)
Cosine Function
The cosine function, denoted as \(\cos(x)\), is one of the fundamental trigonometric functions. It originates from the unit circle, which is a circle with a radius of 1. The function \(\cos(x)\) gives the x-coordinate of a point on the unit circle as angle \(x\) varies. Here are some features of the cosine function:
- The cosine curve starts at 1 when \(x = 0\).
- It oscillates between -1 and 1.
- The period of the cosine function is \(2\pi\), meaning it repeats every \(2\pi\) radians.
- It is an even function, so \(\cos(-x) = \cos(x)\).
Sine Function
The sine function, \(\sin(x)\), is another core trigonometric function. Like the cosine function, it is derived from the unit circle, and its value represents the y-coordinate at a point when moving counterclockwise around the circle by angle \(x\). Critical aspects include:
- Sine starts at 0 when \(x = 0\).
- It ranges from -1 to 1, creating a series of smooth waves.
- Its period, like cosine, is \(2\pi\).
- The sine function is odd, so \(\sin(-x) = -\sin(x)\).
Graphing Functions
Graphing functions is a powerful visual tool in mathematics that helps us understand the behavior of different equations. When graphing trigonometric functions, like sine and cosine, follow these basic steps:
- Identify the function you wish to graph (e.g., \(\cos(\cdot)\) or \(\sin(\cdot)\)).
- Determine the range and period of the function. Most trigonometric functions range from -1 to 1, with a period of \(2\pi\).
- Plot key points: the starting point, maximum, minimum, and endpoints of one period.
- Draw a smooth, continuous wave connecting these points.
- Repeat the pattern to cover the desired domain.