Question 1202354:  The function f is such that f(x) = a - bcosx for 0° ≤ x ≤ 360°, where a and b are positive constants. The maximum value of f(x) is 10 and the minimum value is -2. 
i) Find the values of a and b, 
ii) Solve the equation f(x)=0, 
iii)Sketch the graph of y=f(x) 
 
 Answer by math_tutor2020(3817)      (Show Source): 
You can  put this solution on YOUR website!  
Part (i)
 
 
The max and min are 10 and -2 respectively. 
The midpoint of the max and min is (10+(-2))/2 = (10-2)/2 = 8/2 = 4, which is the value of 'a'.  
This is the midline. 
 
 
The function updates to f(x) = 4 - b*cos(x)
 
 
Cosine maxes out when x = 0 degrees.  
Cos(x) = cos(0) = 1 
When cosine is maxed out, 4 - b*cos(x) will reach its minimum. In this case, the min is -2
 
 
4 - b*cos(x) = -2 
4 - b*cos(0) = -2 
-b*1 = -2-4 
-b  = -6 
b = 6
 
 
Therefore, the function is f(x) = 4 - 6*cos(x)
 
 
Answers: a = 4, b = 6
 
 
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Part (ii)
 
 
f(x) = 4 - 6*cos(x) 
0 = 4 - 6*cos(x) 
6cos(x) = 4 
cos(x) = 4/6 
x = arccos(4/6) or x = -arccos(4/6) 
x = 48.189685 or x = -48.189685 approximately
 
 
The angle -48.189685 is not in the interval 0° ≤ x ≤ 360°, but adding 360 to it will find a coterminal angle. 
-48.189685 + 360 = 311.810315
 
 
Answers: x = 48.189685, x = 311.810315 (both are approximate)
 
 
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Part (iii)
 
 
I recommend graphing apps such as Desmos and GeoGebra.
 
 
Here's the link to the interactive Desmos graph. 
https://www.desmos.com/calculator/roduixexnc 
 
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