Since y = tan -1x is the inverse of the function y = tan x, the function y = tan -1x if and only if tan y = x. But, since y = tan x is not one-to-one, its domain must be restricted in order that y = tan -1x is a function. To get the graph of y = tan -1x, start with a graph of y = tan x. (The window at right is [-2 , 2] x [-4, 4]. ) |
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Restrict the domain of the function to a one-to-one region - typically is used (highlighted at right) for tan -1x. This leaves the range of the restricted function unchanged as . | |
Reflect this graph across the line y = x to get the graph of y = tan -1x (y = arctan x), the thickest black curve at right. Notice that y = tan -1x has domain and range . It is strictly increasing on its entire domain. |
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So, when you ask your calculator to graph y = tan -1x, you get the graph shown at right. (The viewing window is [-2 , 2] x [-4, 4].) |
The derivative of y = tan -1 x is: (Click here for a derivation.)
The graphs of y = tan -1 x and its derivative is shown below. The domain of y' is . Since y = tan -1 x is always increasing, y' > 0 for all x in its domain.
Here is a typical problem:
What is the area under the graph of on [0,10]?
The graph of this region is shown at right. The area of this region is:
Now, we know that:
Comparing what we know with what we need to know suggests that we let u2 = 4x2: