Is Sin(x) a 1:1 Function and What Defines a Function?

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A function is defined as having exactly one y value for every x value, making sin(x) a valid function. However, sin(x) is not a one-to-one function because multiple x values can yield the same y value, as demonstrated by sin(π/2) and sin(5π/2) both equaling 1. The concept of a one-to-one function means that a horizontal line can intersect the graph at most once. Therefore, while sin(x) is a function, it is classified as a many-to-one function. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in defining and analyzing functions in mathematics.
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Is the following correct.

1. f(x) is a function if for every x value there is exactly one y value. so sin x is a function.

2. does a 1-1 function mean that the line y = constant cut the graph in exactly one place? therefore sin (x) is not a 1:1 function but is still a function?

:redface:
 
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Chadlee88 said:
Is the following correct.

1. f(x) is a function if for every x value there is exactly one y value. so sin x is a function.

2. does a 1-1 function mean that the line y = constant cut the graph in exactly one place? therefore sin (x) is not a 1:1 function but is still a function?

:redface:
Yes that is correct.

\\sin x is a function that is a many to one function. That is there are multiple x values that give the same value as y or f(x). For example if you sub in x={\pi}/{2} and x={5\pi}/{2} into y= \\sin x you get y=1 in both cases.

Thus you have a many to one function. There is also a many to many graph which obviously isn't a function due to the vertical line test.
 
Last edited:
Number 2 is not correct. A function (from R to R) is injective if and only if the line y = constant cuts the graph in AT MOST one place.
 

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