Math Problem Statement

Determine if the given function represented by the table is linear or not linear.

Solution

Let’s analyze the table to determine if the function is linear or not linear.

Given values:

xy
-4-3
00
43
86

Steps to check if the function is linear:

A function is linear if there is a constant rate of change between the values of xx and yy. In other words, the slope (rate of change) should remain the same between every pair of points.

Calculate the slope (mm) between two points:

The formula for the slope is: m=y2y1x2x1m = \frac{y_2 - y_1}{x_2 - x_1}

Check between each pair of points:

  1. Between (4,3)(-4, -3) and (0,0)(0, 0): m=0(3)0(4)=34m = \frac{0 - (-3)}{0 - (-4)} = \frac{3}{4}

  2. Between (0,0)(0, 0) and (4,3)(4, 3): m=3040=34m = \frac{3 - 0}{4 - 0} = \frac{3}{4}

  3. Between (4,3)(4, 3) and (8,6)(8, 6): m=6384=34m = \frac{6 - 3}{8 - 4} = \frac{3}{4}

Conclusion:

Since the slope remains constant at 34\frac{3}{4} between all points, the function is linear.

Answer:

Linear


Would you like a detailed explanation on how to graph this function or apply it to real-life examples?

Here are 5 follow-up questions you might want to consider:

  1. How do you graph a linear function based on a table?
  2. What does the slope 34\frac{3}{4} represent in this context?
  3. How can you identify a linear function just by looking at a table?
  4. What are real-life examples of linear functions?
  5. How do you convert a table of values into a linear equation?

Tip: A linear function will always produce a straight line when graphed!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Linear Functions
Slope

Formulas

Slope formula: m = (y2 - y1) / (x2 - x1)

Theorems

Definition of a linear function: constant rate of change between variables

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8