Part A: A graph passes through the points (0, 4), (1, 8), and (2, 10). Does this graph represent a linear function or a non-linear function? Explain your answer in words.Part B: Write one example of a linear function and one example of a non-linear function. (Use x and y as the variables) (10 points)
Accepted Solution
A:
Part A: In (0,4) and (1,8), as x increases from 0 to 1, y increases from 4 to 8. The slope of the line connecting these 2 pts. is (8-4) / (1-0), or 4. Now do the same thing for the 2 pts (1,8) and (2, 10). You will find that the slope in the 2nd case is different. Thus, the 3 given pts do NOT lie on a straight line. Function is non-linear.
Part B: an example of a non-linear function would be y = 2x^2 - 5. You can tell immediately from that exponent, 2, that this function is non linear.
An ex. of a linear function would include x to the 1st power only: y = 3x - 7.