Modelling of Tidal Height vs Time (Trigonometric Function)
- Author:
- Lew W. S.
Find the appropriate trigonometric function that can represent and model the relationship between two variables in a given set of data, which consists of a 24 record of the tidal heights.
The following possible functions could be considered :
H = a sin bx + c or H = a cos bx + c
The worksheet and the complete table of values from 0 to 24 hours may be found at : https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B8UevKhlhG9nNk9hVzlUOXc5LUk/edit?usp=sharing
Use sliders for values of a, b and c to vary the shape of curve to fit the given points plotted.
Are you able to determine the amplitude and period , or the axis of the plotted points visually?