Question

Determine if the graph is symmetric about the x-axis, the y-axis, or the origin r = 3 - 4 sin θ

Answer 1

Tricky question. You might learn a lot from actually graphing r=3-4sin theta.
Write r as \[r(\theta)=3-4\sin \theta\]

Answer 2

How does the fact that that '3' in this formula is always the same, whereas -4sin theta could be positive or negative, depending upon the value of the angle theta.

If \[r(-\theta)=r(\theta), \]

Answer 3

the function is EVEN. Hint: is sin x an even function or an odd one?

Answer 4

its not coming up when i graph it

Answer 5

@mathmale

Answer 6

If \[r(-\theta)=-r(\theta), \]

Answer 7

this function is ODD.

Answer 8

If neither equation is true, then the function neither even nor odd.

Answer 9

Why won't it come up on my calculator graph @mathmale

Answer 10

that's a separate question, Robert. Do you want to discuss the question you've posted or do you want to discuss use of your calculator?

Answer 11

@mathmale well would it be easier to just graph it then see where it is symmetric

Answer 12

sure, but that won't help you if your teacher expects y ou to determine symmetry (or the lack of it) without a calculator.

Answer 13

What kind of calc do you own?

Answer 14

TI 84 plus @mathmale