Dependent variable

Definition

The dependent variable is the output of a function, whose value depends on the input or independent variable. It is usually represented as $y$ in the equation $y = f(x)$.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In the function notation $f(x) = y$, $y$ is the dependent variable.
2. The dependent variable changes in response to the independent variable.
3. Graphically, the dependent variable is plotted on the y-axis.
4. If $f(x) = x^2 + 3x + 2$, then $f(x)$ (or $y$) is the dependent variable.
5. Dependent variables are essential for understanding how functions map inputs to outputs.

Review Questions

• What axis is typically used to plot the dependent variable in a graph?
• In the function notation $f(x) = y$, identify which part represents the dependent variable.
• Given the function $h(t) = t^3 - t$, what is the dependent variable?

Related terms

Independent Variable:

An input value that determines the output of a function, often represented as $x$.

Function Notation:

A way to denote functions using symbols like $f(x)$ to describe outputs based on inputs.

$y$-axis: The vertical axis in a coordinate plane, commonly used to plot values of the dependent variable.