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A graph can represent either a relation or a function, depending on the nature of the relationship between the variables depicted. A relation is simply a set of ordered pairs, while a function is a specific type of relation where each input (or x-value) is associated with exactly one output (or y-value). To determine if a graph represents a function, the vertical line test can be applied: if any vertical line intersects the graph at more than one point, it is not a function.
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When is a relation considered to be function?
A relation is a function when an x value only has one y value associated with it. An easy way to tell this is to graph the relation, then draw a vertical line through it. If, at any point, it touches the graph twice, the relation isn't a function.
When can you say that the graph is function or mere relation?
If a vertical line intersects the graph at more than one point then it is not a function.
When is a relation also a function?
A relation is also a function if each member of the domain (or x-coordinate) is paired with only one member of the range (or y-coordinate). If the relation is a set of ordered pairs that consists of real numbers a graph can be created to visualize the relation. If a vertical line can be drawn and only crosses or intersects the graph at one point then the relation is also a function.
How does you know that relation is a function?
One way is to try the vertical line test on a graph!
Is the relation a function y equals 3x-4?
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