Learning Resources

Investigation 9: Combining Functions

Step A

To complete the last column of the table, use your graphing calculator. Instructions are provided below.

1. Make sure the calculator is in radian mode.
2. Use the following Window settings:
            Xmin = -2
             Xmax = 2
              Xscl =
             Ymin = -4
             Ymax = 4
              Y scl = 1
3. Enter the function Y₁ = sin(Ax) + sin(Bx). Use the ALPHA feature for the variables A and B.

4. Go to the HOME screen and store the first set of values for A and B from the table, using the following:
                                 1   STO   A   ENTER
                                 1   STO   B   ENTER

5. Press GRAPH to view the first graph.
6. Press CALC . Then select option 4 to determine the x-coordinate of one maximum value.
7. Press CALC. Then select option 4 to determine the x-coordinate of the next maximum value.
8. The difference between these two values is the period, in radians. Write your answer in terms of . For example, if the difference is approximately 6.28, record 2.
9. Repeat steps 4 to 8 for each of the remaining sets of values for A and B.