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Describe the Concept of a Function (or Formula)
> ... Math > Introduction to Graphs > Describe the Concept of a Function (or Formula)

The first video in this lesson will go over the following vocabulary words:

  • Expression = A statement using numbers and/or variables and an operator.
  • Equation = Expressions with an equal sign (=).
  • Formula = An equation that gives us instructions or a rule.
  • Function = An equation where every input has only one output.
Expression, Equation, Formula, Function

Video Source (04:18 mins) | Transcript

The following video will explain more about how a function works using the metaphor or parable of a seed. Just as a seed is only able to produce the one plant it is meant to create, a function can only produce one output for each input value.

Understanding Functions

Video Source (02:22 mins) | Transcript

This video references the following talk by Elder Uchtdorf: God's Harvest.

Practice Problems

1. Choose the answer that will correctly complete the following sentence. Each unique input into a function can lead to ____. (
Solution
x
Solution:
1. only one output
)
  1. only one output
  2. several outputs
  3. a random number of outputs
2. Choose the answer below that is an expression. (
Solution
x
Solution: 3. \(3 − 1\)
Details:
There is only one expression listed. It is \(3 − 1\). Equations have equal signs in them. Expressions do not. Expressions have numbers, variables, and operations but not an equal sign. (Some examples of operations are addition, subtraction, multiplication, etc.)
)
  1. \(3x = 2\)
  2. \(5 + 1 = x\)
  3. \(3 − 1\)
3. Choose the answer below that is an equation. (
Solution
x
Solution: 3. \(5 + 1 = x − 2\)
Details:
There is only one equation listed. It is: \(5 + 1 = x − 2\). We know it is an equation because it contains an equal sign.
)
  1. \(3 + 4\)
  2. \(2x\)
  3. \(5 + 1 = x − 2\)

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