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Functions in Mathematics

Jun 18, 2025

Overview

This lesson introduces the concept of functions in general mathematics, focusing on their definitions, identification, and representation through mapping, sets, graphs, and real-life examples.

Objectives of the Lesson

  • Determine the difference between functions and relations.
  • Illustrate functions using mapping diagrams, sets, and graphs.
  • Represent real-life situations using functions.

Key Concepts: Relations and Functions

  • A relation relates values from a set called the domain to another set called the range.
  • An ordered pair is a pair of objects in a specific order, written as (x, y).
  • The domain is the set of all input (x) values; the range is the set of all output (y) values.
  • A set is a collection of distinct objects with a common characteristic.

Definition of a Function

  • A function is a special type of relation where each x value in the domain is paired with exactly one y value in the range.
  • If any x value is paired with more than one y value, it is not a function.

Illustrating Functions

Mapping Diagrams

  • If every element in the domain maps to only one element in the range, it is a function.
  • It's acceptable for different x values to map to the same y value.

Sets (Roster Notation)

  • When no x value is repeated in the set of ordered pairs, the set is a function.
  • If an x value appears more than once with different y values, it is not a function.

Graphs

  • Use the Vertical Line Test (VLT): a graph represents a function if any vertical line intersects the graph at only one point.
  • If a vertical line touches the graph more than once, it is not a function.

Real-Life Examples of Functions

  • Circumference of a circle as a function of its diameter (C = dฯ€) or radius (C = 2ฯ€r).
  • Length of a personโ€™s shadow as a function of their height.
  • Location of a car as a function of time while driving.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Relation โ€” a rule that links elements from one set (domain) to another set (range).
  • Function โ€” a relation where each input (x) has exactly one output (y).
  • Ordered Pair โ€” two elements written as (x, y), showing the input and output.
  • Domain โ€” the set of all possible input values (x).
  • Range โ€” the set of all possible output values (y).
  • Vertical Line Test (VLT) โ€” a method to determine if a graph represents a function by checking vertical line intersections.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Complete the 10-item assessment provided and submit your answers to your teacher as scheduled.
  • Review function definitions and practice identifying functions through mapping, sets, and graphs.