SOLUTION: Given the following table, determine if the function is linear, or nonlinear. If linear, find the slope. Table x............f(x) -2...........1/4 -1...........1/2

Algebra ->  Exponents -> SOLUTION: Given the following table, determine if the function is linear, or nonlinear. If linear, find the slope. Table x............f(x) -2...........1/4 -1...........1/2       Log On


   

Question 1208150: Given the following table, determine if the function is linear, or nonlinear. If linear, find the slope.

Table

x............f(x)
-2...........1/4
-1...........1/2
0............1
1............2
2............4

Thanks.
Answer by ikleyn(53956) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
.

Let's calculate values of the slope in two intervals.


In the interval [0,1] of x-axis, the slope is  p = delta_y%2Fdelta_x = %282-1%29%2F%281-0%29 = 1%2F1 = 1.


In the interval [1,2] of x-axis, the slope is  q = delta_y%2Fdelta_x = %284-2%29%2F%282-1%29 = 2%2F1 = 2.



We see that the slopes are different.

Since the slopes at two intervals are different, it is just enough 
for us to conclude that the given function is nonlinear.

At this point, the problem is solved in full, with complete explanations.