Inactive Tutor answered 02/27/14
Garrett M.
asked 02/26/14Does the equation y = +-5X represent a function?
Does the equation y = +-5X represent a function?
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3 Answers By Expert Tutors
Tutor
New to Wyzant
Hi Garrett;
y = +-5X
I assume this equation was originally...
y2=(5x)2
We must remember that, when squared, negative 5x (- 5x) will produce the same result as positive 5x (+ 5x).
The definition of a function is that a vertical line can only pass through this line once. Because of the y2, each value of x will be represented twice on the y-axis. Henceforth, the vertical line will pass through this line twice.
Let's try x=5
y2=(5x)2
y2=[(5)(5)]2
y2=625
y=+/-25
(5,+25)
(5,-25)
THIS IS NOT A FUNCTION.
Inactive Tutor answered 02/27/14
Tutor
New to Wyzant
+ to Vivian.
Y = +/- 5X
example, X = 1, then Y equals EITHER +5 or -5, violating the Vertical Line test - Not a function.
Inactive Tutor
It is the X that takes values of positive or negative:
Like Y = l 5X l this is the case of either or , but not both.
Like zeros of Quadratic which are symmetric with Axis of Symmetry.
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02/27/14
Inactive Tutor answered 02/27/14
Tutor
New to Wyzant
Yes itis because:
Y = ± 5 X
Each Value of X , there is only one value of Y
(- 1, - 5)
( 1, 5 )
( -2 , -10)
( 2, 10)
It passes the vertical test for function.
Inactive Tutor
No, it's not, Parviz. E.g., y(1) = ±(1) = +1 or -1; two values for x = 1. So not a function.
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02/27/14
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Inactive Tutor
02/27/14