Find C in general sine function

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To find the value of c in the sine function y = asin(b(x - c)) + d, one must understand that c represents the horizontal displacement of the graph. It shifts the sine wave to the right by c units, affecting the position of its maximum point. The discussion highlights that while a, b, and d can be determined from a graph, c can also be inferred if additional contextual information is provided, such as timing in real-world scenarios. An example illustrates that if high tide occurs at midnight, c can be calculated by aligning the sine function's maximum with this time. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding how these parameters interact to accurately represent the sine function's behavior.
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Hello All,

I am just wondering how to find c in the sine function (y=asinb(x-c)+d).

I understand wat the values mean and how to find a b and d but c i am not to sure how to find unless there is a already given graph.

thanks
 
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c is the horizontal displacement of the graph: it shifts the graph of a sin(bx) + d to the right by c units.

I understand [...] how to find a b and d but c i am not to sure how to find unless there is a already given graph.
I don't quite get that. You cannot get a, b and d without a given graph either, or you need some other information to find them but then you can usually also find c...
 
CompuChip said:
I don't quite get that. You cannot get a, b and d without a given graph either, or you need some other information to find them but then you can usually also find c...

I will give you an example of what i mean, check attachments below
 

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The value of c is hidden in the sentence "high tide is at midnight".
If the c weren't there (or would be 0) then the maximum of the sine would be at b x = \pi / 4.
Replacing x by (x - c) shifts it horizontally, such that you can put the maximum at t = 0 (if that would be midnight).
 
CompuChip said:
If the c weren't there (or would be 0) then the maximum of the sine would be at b x = \pi / 4.
Replacing x by (x - c) shifts it horizontally, such that you can put the maximum at t = 0 (if that would be midnight).

ahh so in this case i must place the highest tide at midnight and then find point d to find c
I am still confused because if u graph y=asinbx+d which is water your saying to do then find c but the graph of y=asinb(x-c)+d (provided that a b and d are constant) the graph is different
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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