A question on plotting functions on a graph

Click For Summary
The discussion centers on the definition of a single-valued function in the context of single variable calculus. It highlights a statement from MIT's OpenCourseWare that asserts a function is single-valued if every vertical line intersects the graph at only one point. The confusion arises from the interpretation of vertical lines suggesting multiple outputs for a single input. Clarification is provided that the definition strictly applies to the behavior of functions, where each input corresponds to exactly one output. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding this fundamental concept in graphing functions.
#neutrino
Messages
51
Reaction score
2
when i was reading a supplementary notes doc from open course ware fro MIT on single variable calculus there was a description about a graphical representation of a single valued function as
" if each line parallel to the y- axis and which passes through a point in the domain intersects the graph at only one point then our function is single valued " my point is since it is a line drawn parallel to the y- axis for each input there will be several outputs ,therefore how come it is a function at all?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Make a drawing and indicate what you read from this sentence. It seems to me you misunderstand the statement...
 
thanks got it
 
You're welcome.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • · Replies 36 ·
2
Replies
36
Views
6K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 0 ·
Replies
0
Views
656
  • · Replies 0 ·
Replies
0
Views
1K
  • · Replies 0 ·
Replies
0
Views
626
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K