How to print out line equations? (such as y=x^2)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around how to print out line equations, specifically for various mathematical functions such as y = x, y = |x|, y = x^2, y = x^3, and y = 2^x, when laid out on a graph. Participants explore different software options for graphing these equations.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about programs to print graph equations.
  • Another participant suggests using Excel, gnuplot, or various online graphing utilities.
  • A request is made for a screenshot of how to graph y = x in Excel.
  • Instructions are provided for entering x-values and formulas in Excel to create the necessary data for graphing.
  • A hint is given to use an x-y scatter chart instead of a plain line chart for better representation.
  • Further clarification is provided on selecting the appropriate scatter chart subtype for plotting generated points.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the use of Excel and scatter charts for graphing the equations, but there is no consensus on a single preferred software or method, as multiple options are suggested.

Contextual Notes

Some participants provide specific steps for using Excel, while others suggest alternative software without detailing their methods. There may be assumptions about familiarity with Excel and graphing concepts that are not explicitly stated.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals seeking to graph mathematical functions using software tools, particularly students or hobbyists in mathematics or related fields.

Gary King
If I have several graph equations like the following:

y = x
y = |x|
y = x^2
y = x^3
y = 2^x

How can I print these out when they are laid out on a graph? What program should I use?

Thanks in advance! :)
 
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You can use Excel, or gnuplot, or any of the other ten million graphing utilities available on the web. Use google.

- Warren
 
Could you show me a screenshot of how it would look (the values and the graph) completed for y = x in Excel?

the attached is what I have so far: http://img139.exs.cx/img139/9320/excel7rr.jpg
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Put a range of x-values in column A, say rows 1 through 20. Insert x-values ranging from say -10 to 10.

Type "=ABS($A1)" into cell B1. Drag a box around cells B1 through B20, and hit Edit->Fill->Down.

Type "=$A1^2" into cell C1. Drag a box around cells C1 through C20, and hit Edit->Fill->Down.

...Continue adding all the columns you need.

Select all the columns, and hit the Chart button. Create the chart as usual.

- Warren
 
Hint: Use an x-y scatter chart, not a plain line chart.

- Warren
 
here we go: http://img155.exs.cx/img155/1012/excel4ke.jpg looks good so far :) thanks!

P.S.
ah thanks, the scatter is much better; I don't have to set the A column to be X for every chart
 
chroot said:
Hint: Use an x-y scatter chart, not a plain line chart.

And if you're plotting points generated from an equation, not experimental data points, choose the sub-type of scatter chart that gives you "data points connected by smoothed lines without markers".
 

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