CK12 - Trigonometry

end of this lesson,but now we will look at the graphsof functions.

Graphingfunctionsand technologicaltools

Whilethereare techniquesyou can use to efficientlygraphmanyfunctionsby hand,usinga graphingcal-
culatorallowsyou to quicklygraphany function,and to identifykey aspectsof the function.The following
two exampleswill showyou how to use a TI graphingcalculatorto explorea function.

Example5:Graphthe functiony=x
3

• 3x
  2
  
  
  • 1
  
  
  
  

a. Evaluatethe functionforx= 0,x= 2, andx= -2.

b. Describethe end behaviorof the function

c. Approximateallx-intercepts

d. Approximateany local maximaand minima

Solution:

To graphthis function,press , and clearany equationsalreadyentered.In Y1, enterthe equation.If you
haveneverenteredan equationbefore,here are sometips:

Thexbuttonis right next to the green button(on the TI-83model)

To raisexto the 3rd power, press.

To raisexto the secondpower, pressthe button,whichis in the left column.

Be carefulwith negatives:the blue “-” buttonon the right side is for subtraction.The buttonon the bottom

that says “(-)” is for negativenumbers.

Onceyou haveenteredthe equation,press. This will take you to the “standard”window:you can
see both x and y from -10 to 10. (Notethat if you scrolldownto option6, you haveto pressenter. However,
if you just enterthe number6, you will be takento the graph.)