Graphing the Secant Function with a Reflection and Change in Period

The video tutorial explains how to graph the secant function by first graphing its reciprocal, the cosine function. It covers determining the amplitude and period of the cosine function, setting up the graph with critical points, and reflecting the cosine graph over the X-axis. The tutorial then shows how to transform the cosine graph into the secant graph by identifying asymptotes and plotting parabolas between them. The process is demonstrated step-by-step, ensuring a clear understanding of graphing secant functions.

Why is it important to graph the cosine function before the secant function?

• Because they both have asymptotes.

• Because they have the same amplitude.

• Because they are reciprocal functions.

• Because they have the same period.

What is the amplitude of the cosine function in this problem?

• 4

• π

• 2

• 1

How do you calculate the period of the cosine function?

• π / A

• π / B

• 2π / B

• 2π / A

What is the X scale used for in graphing the cosine function?

• To set the Y-axis.

• To calculate the period.

• To find the distance between critical points.

• To determine the amplitude.

What effect does a negative sign in front of the function have?

• It changes the period.

• It reflects the graph over the X-axis.

• It changes the amplitude.

• It shifts the graph upwards.

What happens at the X-intercepts of the cosine function when graphing the secant function?

• The secant function is zero.

• The secant function is undefined.

• The secant function has a maximum.

• The secant function has a minimum.

What shape does the secant graph form between asymptotes?

• Straight lines

• Ellipses

• Circles

• Parabolas