Here we will examine the graphs of y=a sin(bx + c) for different values of a, b, and c. Let us first look at the effects of changing a while b and c remain constant.

We can see that the amplitudes are changing, if we look more closely at the graphs of y= 1 sin (1x + 1) and 4 sin (1x + 1) we will observe the following.

Notice that the amplitude is greater with the larger value of a, and corresponds with its value on the y-axis. So, what might we expect to see with negative values for a?

For negative values of a, the amplitude is negative and still corresponds with its value on the y-axis. From these observations we can conclude that the change in a determines the type of vertical expansion of the function.

Now let us observe the effects of changes in b on the graph.

Notice the graphs have different periods. If we look at the graphs when a and c are constant and b=1, 4, and ½ we can take a closer look at how the periods are changing with the change in b.

The change in the period can be determined with the formula , therefore we can see why 0 < b > 1 would yield a horizontal expansion (shown when b = ½) and b > 1 would yield a horizontal compression.

Lastly, let’s observe changes in c.

Here we can see that the graphs are translated horizontally. If we take a closer look

We can see that the graph shifts to the left for c>0,

and shifts to the right for c<0.

Based on the observations we have made what do you think would happen if we changed the original equation to y=a sin(bx + c) + d. We have already demonstrated changes in amplitude, period, and horizontal expansion/compression, so we could logically assume that changes in d will result in a vertical expansion/compression.

Let’s see.