Activity Overview
In this activity for the TI-84 family, students will observe different graphs of polar limaçon curves. Students will discover four different types of limaçon curves and their relationship to the ratio of a to b.
About the Lesson
In this activity, students begin by exploring limaçon graphs in the form r = a ± b sin(q) or r = a ± b cos(q). Students will view several cardioids to see the effects of a and b on the graphs. Students will also explore what effects addition and subtraction have on the graph, as well as sine versus cosine.
For students preparing for the AP Precalculus exam, an optional "AP Practice Questions" document is available for download.