Finding the Derivatives of Trig Functions
The Sine Function
- Drag point A and notice how the slope of the tangent changes.
- Trace the derivative by plotting the values of the slope of the tangent.
- Show the derivative function and investigate how a and b change it's shape.
Develop a formula to calculate the derivative of sin(x). - Use the tool below to check and adjust your answer.
How would the formula be adjusted to calculate the derivative of a*sin(bx)?
The Cosine Function
- Drag point A and notice how the slope of the tangent changes.
- Trace the derivative by plotting the values of the slope of the tangent.
- Show the derivative function and investigate how a and b change it's shape.
Develop a formula to calculate the derivative of cos(x). - Use the tool below to check and adjust your answer.
How would the formula be adjusted to calculate the derivative of a*cos(bx)?
The Tan Function
- Drag point A and notice how the slope of the tangent changes.
- Trace the derivative by plotting the values of the slope of the tangent.
- Show the derivative function and investigate how a and b change it's shape.
Develop a formula to calculate the derivative of tan(x). - Use the tool below to check and adjust your answer.
How would the formula be adjusted to calculate the derivative of a*tan(bx)?