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Visual examples of the vertical line test to determine if a graph represents a function.

Graphs illustrating the vertical line test for functions, showing examples of lines, circles, parabolas, and sine waves with vertical lines intersecting them.

Graphs illustrating the vertical line test for functions, showing examples of lines, circles, parabolas, and sine waves with vertical lines intersecting them.

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Show Answer Key & Explanations Step-by-step solution for: Vertical Line Test - Definition, Uses, Examples

Problem Description:


The image shows six graphs, and the task is to apply the Vertical Line Test to determine which of these graphs represent functions. The Vertical Line Test states that a graph represents a function if and only if every vertical line intersects the graph at most once.

Solution:



We will analyze each graph one by one using the Vertical Line Test.

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#### Graph 1: \( y = x \)
- This is a straight line passing through the origin with a slope of 1.
- If we draw any vertical line, it will intersect this graph at exactly one point.
- Conclusion: This graph passes the Vertical Line Test and represents a function.

---

#### Graph 2: \( x^2 + y^2 = 9 \)
- This is the equation of a circle centered at the origin with radius 3.
- If we draw a vertical line through any point on the x-axis within the interval \([-3, 3]\), it will intersect the circle at two points (one above and one below the x-axis).
- Conclusion: This graph fails the Vertical Line Test and does not represent a function.

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#### Graph 3: \( y = x^2 \)
- This is a parabola opening upwards with its vertex at the origin.
- If we draw any vertical line, it will intersect this graph at exactly one point.
- Conclusion: This graph passes the Vertical Line Test and represents a function.

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#### Graph 4: \( y^2 = x \)
- This is a parabola opening to the right with its vertex at the origin.
- If we draw a vertical line through any point on the x-axis where \( x \geq 0 \), it will intersect the graph at two points (one above and one below the x-axis).
- Conclusion: This graph fails the Vertical Line Test and does not represent a function.

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#### Graph 5: \( y = \sin x \)
- This is the sine wave, which oscillates between -1 and 1.
- If we draw any vertical line, it will intersect this graph at exactly one point.
- Conclusion: This graph passes the Vertical Line Test and represents a function.

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#### Graph 6: \( x = a \)
- This is a vertical line parallel to the y-axis.
- By definition, a vertical line cannot pass the Vertical Line Test because it intersects itself at infinitely many points.
- Conclusion: This graph fails the Vertical Line Test and does not represent a function.

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Final Answer:


The graphs that represent functions are:
1. \( y = x \)
2. \( y = x^2 \)
3. \( y = \sin x \)

The graphs that do not represent functions are:
1. \( x^2 + y^2 = 9 \)
2. \( y^2 = x \)
3. \( x = a \)

\[
\boxed{y = x, \, y = x^2, \, y = \sin x}
\]
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of functions vertical line test worksheet.
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