Question

Identify the maximum and minimum values of the function y = 8 cos x in the interval [-2π, 2π]. Use your understanding of transformations, not your graphing calculator.

Answer 1

Do you need to use Calculus?

Answer 2

No

Answer 3

It's a precalculus class but I just have to identify them.

Answer 4

Okay, then in y=cos(x) what is the maximum and minimum values?

Answer 5

look at the graph of cosine firstly. that should help

Answer 6

I know that cosine has a maximum of 1 and a minimum of -1 right?

Answer 7

Correct!

Answer 8

Now use your knowledge of transformations. What does that 8 represent? What does it affect?

Answer 9

maximum right

Answer 10

the amplitude of the function, right?

Answer 11

Yes but it also tells you something else.

Answer 12

what is the largest cosine can be?

Answer 13

1 and -1 right?