Is cos x an even or odd function?

Understand the Problem

The question is asking whether the cosine function, denoted as cos x, is classified as an even function or an odd function in mathematics. To determine this, we can use the definitions of even and odd functions. An even function satisfies the property f(-x) = f(x), while an odd function satisfies f(-x) = -f(x).

Answer

even function
Answer for screen readers

The cosine function, $\cos(x)$, is an even function.

Steps to Solve

  1. Recall definitions of even and odd functions

An even function satisfies the property that $f(-x) = f(x)$, while an odd function satisfies the property that $f(-x) = -f(x)$.

  1. Apply the definition to cos(x)

Find $\cos(-x)$ and compare it to $\cos(x)$. We know from trigonometric identities that

$$\cos(-x) = \cos(x)$$

Since $\cos(-x) = \cos(x)$, the cosine function meets the criteria for an even function.

  1. Conclude the classification

Since $\cos(x)$ satisfies the property $f(-x) = f(x)$, we conclude that $\cos(x)$ is an even function.

The cosine function, $\cos(x)$, is an even function.

More Information

The cosine function exhibits symmetry about the y-axis. This means that for any angle $x$, $\cos(x)$ yields the same result as $\cos(-x)$.

Tips

A common mistake is to confuse the properties of even and odd functions. Always remember that for an even function, $f(-x) = f(x)$, and for an odd function, $f(-x) = -f(x)$.

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