Phase shift
This original textbook reading covers part of the AP topic. Follow the AP course outline for complete topic instruction and practice.
- Phase shift
The degree of delay in a sinusoidal function. For cos(x), it is the horizontal distance from the peak and the y-axis. For sin(x), it is the horizontal distance from the middle of the increasing wave to the y-axis. It is represented by B in the general sinusoidal equation, .
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Glossary and deeper reading · 1 refreshers
These editorial refreshers supplement the reading. Definitions and examples are added guidance; original source wording and recorded answers remain in their original context.
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Phase shift
A phase shift moves a periodic graph horizontally relative to a chosen reference graph. Writing y=A sin(B(x−h))+D makes the shift h visible when B≠0. For example, sin(x−π/2) is the sine graph shifted π/2 units to the right. For a form such as sin(Bx+C), factor B before reading the shift as −C/B.