Y as a Function of X: Deciding the Equation

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining whether the equation y = √(x + 3) represents y as a function of x, specifically focusing on the properties of square roots and their graphical representation.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the implications of square roots having a plus/minus sign, question the definition of square roots, and discuss the graphical representation of the equation as a "sleeping parabola." Some participants reference the vertical line test as a method to determine if the equation is a function.

Discussion Status

There is a mix of interpretations regarding the nature of the equation, with some participants asserting it is a function based on the vertical line test, while others express uncertainty about the implications of the square root and its graphical representation. Guidance has been offered regarding the definition of the principal square root.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating assumptions about the behavior of square roots and their graphical forms, with some confusion about terminology such as "sleeping parabola." There is an underlying question about the completeness of the information regarding the function's definition.

AznBoi
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Hmm I'm not sure if this is correct:

Problem: Decide whether the equation represents y as a function of x:

y=sq.rt.(x+3)

Ok, so do square roots always have the plus/minus sign automatically? Radicals are the equivalent of sleep parabolas right?? Do I add the bottom half also??

My answer was No because it is a radical/sleeping parabola.
 
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AznBoi said:
Hmm I'm not sure if this is correct:

Problem: Decide whether the equation represents y as a function of x:

y=sq.rt.(x+3)

Ok, so do square roots always have the plus/minus sign automatically?
No, [itex]\sqrt{x}[/itex] is defined as the positive number whose square is equal to x. Square root, like any real valued function, is single valued.

Radicals are the equivalent of sleep parabolas right?? Do I add the bottom half also??

My answer was No because it is a radical/sleeping parabola.
"Sleeping" parabola? You mean a parabola with its axis horizontal?
Unfortunately, you are wrong. [itex]\sqrt{x+3}[/itex] is a function. It's graph is the top half of the horizontal parabola.
 
it is a function because it passes the vertical line test. usually the square root means the principal square root.
 
ok thanks.
 

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