|
|
| |
A function in which the minimum degree or power of the dependent variable is two is called a non-linear function and its graph will always be a curve. The most basic non-linear function is: y=x2. |
| |
Here, x is an independent variable and y is dependent on x. We can also say, y is a function of x, and written in mathematical terms this is y = f(x), so we can write our function as f(x) = x2. |
| |
To plot any graph we need to find the set of points or ordered pairs and identify the curve. |
| |
X |
Y |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
4 |
-1 |
1 |
-2 |
4 |
|
| |
 |
| |
| |
In this graph, two different values of x evaluate to the same value. For example f (-2) = f(2) = 4
f (-2) = 4 means that the function evaluated at x=-2 has a value of 4 or y = 4. |
| |
| |
Try these questions |
| |
1. |
Identify the graph of (x-3)(2x+5) |
| |
|
| |
 |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
 |
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Answer: D |
| |
|
2. |
 |
| |
|
| |
| A. |
All real numbers. |
| B. |
All negative numbers. |
| C. |
All positive numbers. |
| D. |
None of these. |
| |
|
Answer: C |
|
| |
|
| |
|
3. |
The range of the function 3x2 + 5; x ≥ - 2 is |
| |
|
| |
A. |
All real numbers. |
B. |
All positive numbers ≥ 17 |
C. |
All positive real numbers |
D. |
None of these. |
|
|
Answer: C |
|
| |
|
|