Input

Definition

An input is the value or set of values that are fed into a function. It is often represented by the variable $x$ in equations and graphs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In a function, each input corresponds to exactly one output.
2. The domain of a function is the complete set of possible inputs.
3. Inputs are plotted on the x-axis in Cartesian coordinate systems.
4. Function notation typically uses $f(x)$ where $x$ is the input.
5. Determining valid inputs often involves checking for restrictions such as division by zero or square roots of negative numbers.

Review Questions

• What does an input represent in a function?
• How do you determine if an input is valid for a given function?
• Where are inputs plotted in a Cartesian coordinate system?

Related terms

Output: The result obtained from substituting an input into a function, usually represented by the variable $y$.

Domain: The set of all possible inputs for which a function is defined.

$f(x)$: $f(x)$ denotes the output of the function $f$ when $x$ is used as its input.