What is the range of the function (2-4\cos^2 x)?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: \([-2,2]\)
Since \(0\leq \cos^2 x\leq 1\), we get \(0\leq 4\cos^2 x\leq 4\). Hence, \(2-4\cos^2 x\) has minimum value \(-2\) when \(\cos^2 x=1\), and maximum value \(2\) when \(\cos^2 x=0\). Therefore, its range is \([-2,2]\). The interval \([0,2]\) is incorrect because the function can also take the value \(-2\). Exam tip: for an expression involving \(\cos^2 x\), first use its range \([0,1]\) and then test the endpoint values.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
\([-2,2]\)
Why is this the correct answer?
Since \(0\leq \cos^2 x\leq 1\), we get \(0\leq 4\cos^2 x\leq 4\). Hence, \(2-4\cos^2 x\) has minimum value \(-2\) when \(\cos^2 x=1\), and maximum value \(2\) when \(\cos^2 x=0\). Therefore, its range is \([-2,2]\). The interval \([0,2]\) is incorrect because the function can also take the value \(-2\). Exam tip: for an expression involving \(\cos^2 x\), first use its range \([0,1]\) and then test the endpoint values.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 12 Mathematics question. Chapter: Trigonometric Functions. Topic: Trigonometric functions and their properties.
