SOLUTION: Determine whether the graph is that of a function? Using the vertical line test, determine if this graph is a function. I'm confused on the concept. The link to the graph:

Question 622410: Determine whether the graph is that of a function?
Using the vertical line test, determine if this graph is a function. I'm confused on the concept.
The link to the graph:
http://i1076.photobucket.com/albums/w445/angvlc/Untitled.jpg
Does this graph represent a function?
Answer by solver91311(24713) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!

The definition of a function demands that the function be able to map any given input value,

, to one and only one output value,

.

So, if you have a relationship between

and

such that for whatever value of

you are given, you can tell for certain what the value of

must be, then you have a function. On the other hand, if you have a relation where there is a certain

value or set of

values where the value of the relation,

, "could be this or it could be that", then you do NOT have a function.

Here is where the vertical line test comes in. If you can find a vertical line anywhere that intersects the graph of your function in more than one place, you now have a "maybe this, maybe that" situation and you do NOT have a function.

Look at your graph. The

-axis is certainly a vertical line, and your graph crosses the

-axis in two places, two being more than one. So what is your conclusion? Does the graph represent a function?

John

My calculator said it, I believe it, that settles it

The Out Campaign: Scarlet Letter of Atheism

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