Logarithmic and Trigonometric Functions
The natural logarithmic function f(x) = ln x is the inverse of eˣ. It grows very slowly as x increases, with domain (0,∞) and range (-∞,∞). This function is essential for solving exponential equations and modeling phenomena with diminishing returns.
The sine function f(x) = sin x creates a smooth wave that repeats every 2π units. This periodic function has a domain of (-∞,∞) and range restricted to −1,1. Sine is fundamental for modeling oscillations and cycles in nature.
Similarly, the cosine function f(x) = cos x also creates a wave pattern that repeats every 2π units. It's identical to sine but shifted horizontally, with domain (-∞,∞) and range −1,1. Cosine and sine work together to describe circular motion.
Visualization Tip: The sine and cosine functions can be viewed as tracking the y-coordinate and x-coordinate (respectively) of a point moving around the unit circle!
The tangent function f(x) = tan x is defined as sin x/cos x. It has vertical asymptotes wherever cos x = 0 atx=π/2+kπwherekisanyinteger. Its domain excludes these points, and its range is all real numbers (-∞,∞).
The secant function f(x) = sec x equals 1/cos x. Like tangent, it has vertical asymptotes where cos x = 0. Its range is (-∞,-1]∪[1,∞), meaning it never outputs values between -1 and 1.