Critical points of a trig function

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on finding the critical points of the function g(x) = x - sin(πx) within the interval [0, 2]. The critical points occur where the derivative g'(x) = 1 - πcos(πx) equals zero or is undefined. The solutions derived include x = ±0.397, with the second critical point determined by considering the unit circle and the properties of the cosine function. The analysis emphasizes the importance of understanding the periodic nature and symmetry of the cosine function in identifying critical points.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of calculus, specifically derivatives and critical points
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions, particularly sine and cosine
  • Knowledge of the unit circle and its properties
  • Basic algebra for solving equations involving inverse trigonometric functions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of the cosine function, including its periodicity and symmetry
  • Learn about the unit circle and how it relates to trigonometric functions
  • Explore the concept of critical points in calculus and their significance in function analysis
  • Practice solving derivative equations to find critical points for various functions
USEFUL FOR

Students studying calculus, particularly those focusing on trigonometric functions and critical point analysis, as well as educators seeking to reinforce these concepts in their teaching.

colonelAP
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Homework Statement



g(x)=x - sin (pi*x) at [0,2]

Homework Equations



all values where g'(x)= 0 (or non-existant) are critical points

The Attempt at a Solution



g'(x)=1 - ╥(cos(╥X))
1/╥=cos(╥X)
cos^(-1) (1/╥) = ╥X
X=(cos^(-1) (1/╥))/╥
x=.397 and x=? 2nd point
 
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Remember your unit circle. Taking the inverse cosine of (1/pi) points to one of two possible triangles that lie on this circle. From the argument, we know that the x-component of this circle will be 1; the hypotenuse will be pi. Remember that the hypotenuse will always be positive but the x- or y-components can be either negative or positive. So, since the x-component is positive, we can have either a positive or a negative y-value to realize our two triangles. So, the angle is +/- 1.25 radians.

x = +/- 0.397
 
colonelAP said:

Homework Statement



g(x)=x - sin (pi*x) at [0,2]

Homework Equations



all values where g'(x)= 0 (or non-existant) are critical points

The Attempt at a Solution



g'(x)=1 - ╥(cos(╥X))
1/╥=cos(╥X)
cos^(-1) (1/╥) = ╥X
X=(cos^(-1) (1/╥))/╥
x=.397 and x=? 2nd point
Hello colonelAP. Welcome to PF !

To help us respond to questions, you should include the complete problem in the text of your post, even if you wrote a portion of what you're looking for in the title of your thread.

I gather that you are to find all the critical points in the interval [0. 2] for the function
f(x)=x-\sin(\pi x)\,.​

What is the period of \cos(\pi x)\,?

Is \cos(\pi x) an even function, or is it an odd function?
 

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