key term - (-∞, ∞)

Definition

The term (-∞, ∞) refers to the set of all real numbers, both positive and negative, including zero. It represents the entire number line, extending from negative infinity to positive infinity, and encompasses all possible values that a variable can take on.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The domain of inverse trigonometric functions is typically the range of the corresponding trigonometric functions, which is the interval (-∞, ∞).
2. The range of inverse trigonometric functions is often restricted to specific intervals, such as $[-\pi/2, \pi/2]$ for $\arcsin(x)$ and $\arccos(x)$, and $(-\pi, \pi]$ for $\arctan(x)$.
3. Inverse trigonometric functions are used to solve equations involving trigonometric functions, where the goal is to find the angle given the ratio of a right triangle.
4. The graphs of inverse trigonometric functions are reflections of the graphs of the corresponding trigonometric functions across the line $y = x$.
5. Inverse trigonometric functions are essential in various applications, such as engineering, physics, and mathematics, where they are used to solve problems involving angles, triangles, and periodic phenomena.

Review Questions

• Explain how the domain of (-∞, ∞) relates to the inverse trigonometric functions.
  • The domain of (-∞, ∞) is crucial for inverse trigonometric functions because it represents the set of all possible input values for these functions. Since inverse trigonometric functions undo the effects of trigonometric functions, their domains are typically the ranges of the corresponding trigonometric functions, which span the entire real number line from negative to positive infinity. This allows inverse trigonometric functions to solve a wide range of problems involving angles and ratios in right triangles.
• Describe the relationship between the domain and range of inverse trigonometric functions.
  • The domain and range of inverse trigonometric functions are often restricted to specific intervals, such as $[-\pi/2, \pi/2]$ for $\arcsin(x)$ and $\arccos(x)$, and $(-\pi, \pi]$ for $\arctan(x)$. This is because the original trigonometric functions have periodic behavior, and the inverse functions need to be defined in a way that ensures a unique solution for each input value. The domain and range of inverse trigonometric functions are carefully chosen to maintain this one-to-one correspondence and provide meaningful solutions for various applications.
• Analyze the significance of the (-∞, ∞) domain in the context of solving problems involving inverse trigonometric functions.
  • The (-∞, ∞) domain of inverse trigonometric functions is essential for solving a wide range of problems in various fields, such as engineering, physics, and mathematics. By having the entire real number line as the domain, inverse trigonometric functions can be used to find the angle given the ratio of a right triangle, regardless of the specific values involved. This flexibility allows for the solution of complex equations and the analysis of periodic phenomena, making inverse trigonometric functions a powerful tool in problem-solving. The (-∞, ∞) domain ensures that these functions can be applied to a diverse set of situations, enhancing their utility and versatility.

Related terms

Domain:

The set of all possible input values for a function.

Range:

The set of all possible output values for a function.

Inverse Trigonometric Functions:

Functions that undo the effects of trigonometric functions, allowing you to find the angle given the ratio of a right triangle.