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Graphs of Trigonometric Functions (OCR A Level Maths: Pure)
Revision Note
Graphs of Trigonometric Functions
Graphs of trigonometric functions
- The Trigonometric Functions Sin, Cos and Tan all have special periodic graphs that you need to be able to sketch and remember
- You’ll need to know their properties and how to sketch them to solve equations and for transforming trig functions
Sketching trigonometric graphs
Using trigonometric graphs
- By sketching the graph you can read off all the solutions in a given range (or interval)
- Your calculator will only give you the principal value
- You should recognise any values/angles associated with exact values
- You should be able to spot the pattern of solutions using the symmetry and periodicity of the graph
Examiner Tip
- Always sketch with a pencil and draw a smooth curve and pay attention to the key features of each graph:
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- Where it crosses the x and y axes
- How often it repeats
- Whether it is symmetrical
- Remember, when answering exam questions that ask for solutions, a sketch will help ensure you give all the appropriate solutions for a given interval.
Worked example
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