CLEP College Algebra covers fundamental algebraic concepts and skills necessary for success in college-level mathematics courses.
A function is a rule that assigns exactly one output to each input. It's like a math vending machine: put a number in, get a unique number out.
Functions are written as \( f(x) \), where \( x \) is the input. For example, \( f(x) = 2x + 1 \).
The graph of a function is a picture of all the input-output pairs. Linear functions graph as straight lines, while quadratic functions form parabolas.
Functions model everything from calculating your phone bill to predicting how fast a plant grows.
Graph \( f(x) = 3x \) by plotting points for \( x = -1, 0, 1 \).
If \( f(x) = x^2 \), then \( f(3) = 9 \).
Functions pair each input with only one output, and their graphs help us visualize relationships.