Find the X-Intercepts of y=tan(x) and Understand the Y-Intercept in Real Numbers

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the x-intercepts of the function y=tan(x) and understanding the y-intercept within the context of real numbers. Participants are exploring the properties of the tangent function, including its intercepts, domain, and asymptotes.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the x-intercepts and suggest that they can be expressed as n(pi), where n is an integer. There are questions about how to correctly write the multiple x-intercepts and the nature of the y-intercept. Additionally, some participants inquire about the domain and asymptotes of the tangent graph, as well as the period of the function.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active with participants raising various questions and offering suggestions regarding the properties of the tangent function. Some guidance has been provided on the periodic nature of the function and the relationship between intercepts and asymptotes, but there is no explicit consensus on all points raised.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of homework rules, which may limit the depth of exploration into the properties of the tangent function. There is an emphasis on understanding rather than providing complete solutions.

xLaser
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What is the x-intercept of y=tan(x)?

there are multiple x-intercepts, how should i write it correctly?

and the y-intercept is : y | where y is a set of real numbers right?
 
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ok is it:

n(pi) where n is the set of integers?
 
xLaser: That sounds right to me.

- Warren
 
lol i have some more questions.

what is the domain and asymptotes of the tan graph?

and btw, is the peroid of tan graph PI?
 
how do u write the asymptotes, there are so many! is there a general way to write it?
 
xLaser said:
lol i have some more questions.

what is the domain and asymptotes of the tan graph?

and btw, is the peroid of tan graph PI?

Hi.
Do you have a graph of this function? You can get a lot of information from it.
For example: it's clear there is only one intercept with the x-axis every period.
Since you already know the intercepts occur at [itex]x=n\pi[/itex], the period must be [itex]\pi[/itex].

As for the domain and asymptotes. Use the definition of tanx:
[tex]\tan x=\frac{\sin x}{\cos x}[/tex].

Since the period is pi, if you have an asymptote, there's another one pi units to the left and right of it. From the graph it's clear there are only vertical asymptotes and precisely one every period.
So you can write [itex]x=a+n\pi[/itex], where [itex]x=a[/itex] is an asymptote.
 

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