Find C in general sine function

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the sine function in the form y=asinb(x-c)+d, specifically focusing on how to determine the value of c, which represents horizontal displacement. Participants are exploring the relationships between the parameters a, b, c, and d, and how they relate to graphing the sine function.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the difficulty of determining c without a given graph and question the necessity of having additional information to find a, b, and d. There is an exploration of how the maximum of the sine function relates to the value of c, with references to specific scenarios such as high tide timing.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with participants sharing insights and examples to clarify their understanding. There is a recognition of the complexity involved in finding c, and some guidance is offered regarding its relationship to the graph's maximum point. However, there is no explicit consensus on the best approach to determine c.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that without a graph or additional context, determining the values of a, b, d, and c can be challenging. The discussion includes references to specific examples and assumptions about 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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    Example.png
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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
 

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