Precalculus: Periodic Functions

Module 1: Periodic Functions

In this course, we expand our collection of functions which we can use to model by studying periodic functions Periodic functions are functions whose graphs repeat themselves after a certain point It is natural to study periodic functions as many natural phenomena are repetitive or cyclical: the motion of the planets in our solar system, days of the week, seasons, and the natural rhythm of the heart Thus, the functions introduced in this course add considerably to our ability to model physical processes In this module, we begin by learning methods of measuring angles

Module 2: Right Triangle Trigonometry

Many common phenomena have oscillatory or periodic behavior To model this behavior requires an understanding of functions that exhibit periodic behavior like sine, cosine, and tangent These functions are introduced using right triangles in this module, which then lets us explore their algebraic relations

Module 3: Sine and Cosine as Periodic Functions

Sine and cosine are now introduced using the unit circle, which is the circle centered at the origin with radius one This definition of our key periodic functions extends the definition originally introduced with right triangles

Module 4: The Tangent and Other Periodic Functions

The most basic periodic functions, sine and cosine, were defined for all real numbers We now study their quotients and reciprocals. However, care must be taken to ensure we do not divide by zero In this module, we will complete our catalog of periodic functions

Module 5: (Some) Identities of Periodic Functions

In an effort to simplify the work involving our periodic functions, we introduce common identities This dramatically increases their usefulness in applications This module will emphasize the development of a small core of identities that are continually needed and can be used to determine a much larger collection While the number of identities is small in this module, an understanding of these and how to derive others from them is essential for success as you continue your studies