This key facts covers The Three Trigonometric Graphs — Quick Reference within Trig Graphs for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Trig Graphs in Graphs for GCSE Mathematics with 11 exam-style questions and 11 flashcards. Use this page as part of a wider topic revision path rather than treating it as an isolated fact. It is section 2 of 11 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
The Three Trigonometric Graphs — Quick Reference
| Feature | y = sin x | y = cos x | y = tan x |
|---|---|---|---|
| Period | 360° | 360° | 180° |
| Amplitude | 1 | 1 | Undefined |
| Range | −1 to 1 | −1 to 1 | All real numbers |
| Passes through | (0°, 0) | (0°, 1) | (0°, 0) |
| Asymptotes | None | None | x = 90°, 270°, ... |
Practice questions for Trig Graphs
What is the period of the graph y = sin x?
Explain the relationship between the graphs of y = sin x and y = cos x.
Quick recall flashcards
Describe the key features of the sine graph y = sin x
Shape: smooth wave (S-shaped repeating curve)
Amplitude: 1 (max value = 1, min value = -1)
Period: 360° (repeats every 360°)
Passes through: (0, 0), (90°, 1), (180°, 0), (270°, -1), (360°, 0)
Symmetry: origin symmetry (odd function)
How are the sine and cosine graphs related?
The cosine graph is the sine graph shifted 90° to the LEFT.
cos x = sin(x + 90°) OR sin x = cos(x - 90°)
Both have the same shape, amplitude and period — the cosine graph simply starts at its maximum (1) rather than at zero.