Tangent graph: y = tan x

What You'll Learn

Identify the period of the tangent function and transformations that affect it

Locate vertical asymptotes of y = tan x using undefined values of the function

Recognize that tan x repeats every π units, unlike sine and cosine

Determine asymptote locations at odd multiples of π/2

What You'll Practice

Finding vertical asymptotes in given intervals

Calculating the period of transformed tangent functions

Determining period changes from horizontal stretches and compressions

Why This Matters

Understanding the tangent graph prepares you for advanced trigonometry, calculus, and physics applications involving periodic phenomena with asymptotic behavior. Mastering tangent functions is essential for analyzing wave patterns, alternating currents, and optimization problems in STEM fields.

Before You Start — Make Sure You Can:

Use tangent ratio to calculate angles and sides (Tan = \( \frac{o}{a}\) )Unit circle Converting between degrees and radians

This Unit Includes

1 Video lesson

Practice exercises

Skills

Tangent Function

Vertical Asymptotes

Period

Trigonometric Graphs

Function Transformations