Cosine Graph


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In these lessons, we will look at graphing the cosine function and properties of the cosine function.

We will start with the unit circle.

A unit circle is a circle of radius one unit with its center at the origin.

The following diagram shows the unit circle and the cosine graph. Scroll down the page for more examples and solutions on how to graph the cosine function.
Cos Graph
 

Properties of the cosine function:

  • The cosine function forms a wave that starts from the point (0,1)
  • cos θ = 0 when θ = 90˚, 270˚.
  • Maximum value of cos θ is 1 when θ = 0˚, 360˚. Minimum value of cos θ is –1 when θ = 180˚. So, the range of values of cos θ is – 1 ≤ cos θ ≤ 1.
  • As the point P moves round the circle in either the clockwise or anticlockwise direction, the cosine curve above repeats itself for every interval of 360˚. Its period is 360˚.
graph of cosine function



Example:

The diagram shows a graph of y = cos x for 0° ≤ x ≤ 360°, determine the values of p, q and r.
cosine function

Solution:
We know that cos 180˚ = –1. So, p = –1.

We know that for a cosine graph, cos θ = 0 for θ = 90˚ and 270˚.  So, θ = 90˚

We know that for a cosine graph, cos θ = 1 for θ = 0˚ and 360˚. 
So, r = 360˚

Example:
Sketch the graph of y = 2 cos x for 0˚ ≤ x ≤ 360˚.

Solution:
Set up a table of values for the equation y = 2cos x

x

0

90

180

270

360

cos x

1

0

–1

0

1

2 cos x

2

0

–2

0

2

Plot the points and join with a smooth curve.

cosine

Also take note that, the graphs of y = sin x and y = cos x, for 0˚ ≤ x ≤ 360˚, intersect at two points: x = 45˚ and x = 225˚.

cosine graph

How to graph basic sine and cosine functions (in degrees)?

The Graph of Cosine, y = cos (x)

Try the free Mathway calculator and problem solver below to practice various math topics. Try the given examples, or type in your own problem and check your answer with the step-by-step explanations.
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