Finding the domain and range without a calculator

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the domain and range of the function f(x) = sec(pi x/4) without using a calculator. The key takeaway is that sec(θ) is defined as 1/cos(θ), which indicates that the function is undefined where cos(θ) equals zero. The zeros of the cosine function occur at odd multiples of π/2, leading to the conclusion that the domain excludes values of x where pi x/4 equals (2n + 1)π/2 for any integer n. The range of the secant function is confirmed to be (-∞, -1] ∪ [1, ∞).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of trigonometric functions, specifically secant and cosine.
  • Knowledge of how to find zeros of trigonometric functions.
  • Familiarity with the concept of domain and range in mathematics.
  • Ability to interpret and analyze function graphs.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of the secant function and its relationship with the cosine function.
  • Learn how to graph trigonometric functions, focusing on identifying asymptotes and zeros.
  • Explore the concept of periodic functions and their domains and ranges.
  • Investigate the implications of transformations on trigonometric functions, such as vertical and horizontal shifts.
USEFUL FOR

Students studying trigonometry, educators teaching mathematical concepts, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of function analysis and graphing techniques.

Burjam
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Homework Statement



Find the domain and range of the following function without the use of a calculator:

f(x) = sec (pi x/4)

Homework Equations



As far as I know, this problem doesn't specifically require "equations". Therefore I am leaving this section blank. Not because I am a malicious poster that is trying to break the rules and upset the administration here, but simply because I don't know any equations for this problem.

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried flipping this and finding the cosine of 4pi and graphing it. But I failed to come up with a valid graph and was puzzled. I could take a picture of my "graph", but I don't think anyone could read it. Help would be greatly appreciated here.
 
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For what values of x, sec(x) is not defined?
 
Burjam said:

Homework Statement



Find the domain and range of the following function without the use of a calculator:

f(x) = sec (pi x/4)

Homework Equations



As far as I know, this problem doesn't specifically require "equations". Therefore I am leaving this section blank. Not because I am a malicious poster that is trying to break the rules and upset the administration here, but simply because I don't know any equations for this problem.

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried flipping this and finding the cosine of 4pi and graphing it. But I failed to come up with a valid graph and was puzzled. I could take a picture of my "graph", but I don't think anyone could read it. Help would be greatly appreciated here.
"I tried flipping this and finding the cosine of 4pi ..."

That won't work.

sec(θ) = 1/(cos(θ)). It's not equal to cos(1/θ), nor 1/(cos(1/θ)).

Consider the graph of [itex]\displaystyle y=\cos\left(\frac{\pi}{4}x\right)\ .[/itex]

Where does this graph have zeros?

What are the maximum & minimum values for y on this graph?
 

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