Period — Algebra II, what it means and where it is taught
How long before the pattern repeats.
Taught in Algebra II.
Where it is taught
What uses it later
This idea is needed for:
- Frequency — How many full cycles fit in a given interval. The reciprocal of the period.
Practise this idea
5 questions in the course bank use Period, in Graphs of Sine & Cosine.
Problem 1
Give the period of y=sin x. Use the coefficient of π.
Worked answer
2
2π
Problem 2
Give the period of y=sin(2x). Give the coefficient of π.
Worked answer
1
2π2=π
Problem 3
Give the period of y=cos(4x). Give the answer as the fraction multiplying π.
Worked answer
1/2
\
d
f
r
a
c
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2
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.
Problem 4
A sine wave has period 6. Find b in y=sin(bx). Give the fraction multiplying π.
Worked answer
1/3
b=2π6=π3
Problem 5
The same wheel turns once every 5 minutes. How many full turns in 30 minutes?
Worked answer
6
30 ÷ 5 = 6