Sinx vs. Cosx: What Are the Key Differences?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the differences between the sine and cosine functions, particularly in the context of their equations and graphical representations. Participants are exploring the characteristics of the functions y=sin(x) and y=cos(x).

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the differences in the equations and graphs of sine and cosine functions. Some are seeking clarification on whether both functions can be expressed in a similar form and how their graphs relate to each other.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes various interpretations of the sine and cosine functions, with some participants providing links for further exploration. There is an acknowledgment of the relationship between the two functions, particularly regarding their graphical representations, but no consensus has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express that the information provided may be too complex for their current understanding, indicating a range of familiarity with the topic. There is also a mention of the relationship between sine and cosine in terms of phase shifts.

Ry122
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What differences is there between a sinx and cosx function?
Do they both use this equation?
y=Asin(BX+C)+D
 
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That's too in depth for me.
I just wanted to know the difference between
y=sinx and y=cosx when graphed.
 
Ok, try this: http://faculty.ed.umuc.edu/~swalsh/Math%20Articles/Graphing%20Sin%20Cos.html
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Maybe cristo just missed it, but Ry122 is actually right, cosine can also be expressed in that form of asin(bx+c) + d.

This happens because sin (90degrees-x)= cos x.

So in answer to your original question, the difference when graphed between sin x and cos x is that the cos graph is the same as sins, moved back 90 degrees to the left.
 

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