Linear Function

Definition

A linear function is a mathematical function that represents a straight line on a coordinate plane. It is characterized by a constant rate of change, known as the slope, and can be expressed in the form of an equation with two variables.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The slope of a linear function represents the constant rate of change between the dependent and independent variables.
2. The y-intercept of a linear function is the point where the line crosses the y-axis, indicating the value of the dependent variable when the independent variable is zero.
3. Linear functions can be used to model and analyze a wide range of real-world phenomena, such as the relationship between time and distance, or the relationship between price and quantity.
4. The graph of a linear function is always a straight line, and the equation of the line can be used to make predictions and draw conclusions about the relationship between the variables.
5. Linear inequalities can be used to represent and analyze constraints or boundaries in various applications, such as optimization problems or feasible regions in decision-making.

Review Questions

• Explain how the slope of a linear function relates to the rate of change between the variables.
  • The slope of a linear function represents the constant rate of change between the dependent and independent variables. It indicates how much the y-value changes for a given change in the x-value. For example, if the slope of a line is 3, it means that for every one-unit increase in the x-value, the y-value increases by 3 units. This constant rate of change is a defining characteristic of linear functions and allows for the prediction of future values based on the relationship between the variables.
• Describe how the equation of a line can be used to find the y-intercept and make predictions about the relationship between the variables.
  • The equation of a line, typically in the form $y = mx + b$, provides valuable information about the linear function. The slope, $m$, represents the constant rate of change, while the y-intercept, $b$, indicates the value of the dependent variable when the independent variable is zero. By knowing the equation of a line, you can not only determine the y-intercept but also make predictions about the relationship between the variables. For instance, if you know the equation of a line that represents the relationship between time and distance, you can use the equation to calculate the distance at a given time or the time required to reach a certain distance.
• Explain how linear inequalities can be used to represent and analyze constraints or boundaries in various applications, such as optimization problems or feasible regions in decision-making.
  • Linear inequalities are mathematical expressions that represent a region on a coordinate plane bounded by a straight line. These inequalities can be used to model and analyze constraints or boundaries in various applications, such as optimization problems or feasible regions in decision-making. For example, in an optimization problem, linear inequalities can be used to represent the constraints, such as resource limitations or budget constraints, that define the feasible region. By analyzing the feasible region, decision-makers can identify the optimal solution that maximizes or minimizes the objective function while satisfying the given constraints. Similarly, in economic or business applications, linear inequalities can be used to represent the boundaries of a market or the constraints faced by a company, allowing for more informed decision-making and strategic planning.

Related terms

Slope: The slope of a line represents the rate of change between two points on the line, indicating how much the y-value changes for a given change in the x-value.

Equation of a Line: The equation of a line is a mathematical expression that defines the relationship between the x and y variables, typically in the form of $y = mx + b$, where $m$ is the slope and $b$ is the y-intercept.

Linear Inequality: A linear inequality is an inequality that can be represented by a straight line on a coordinate plane, dividing the plane into two half-planes that satisfy the inequality.