Checking for Unique Outputs

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 110 views

In mathematics, a function is a relation between a set of inputs (called the domain) and a set of possible outputs (called the range). For a relation to be considered a function, each input must correspond to exactly one output. In other words, for every element in the domain, there must be a unique element in the range.

Understanding the Table

The given table represents a relation between a domain and a range. The domain consists of the numbers 2, 4, 6, and 8, while the range consists of the numbers 13, 14, and 15. To determine if this relation represents a function, we need to check if each element in the domain corresponds to exactly one element in the range.

Checking for Unique Outputs

Let's examine the table and check if each element in the domain corresponds to a unique element in the range.

Domain	Range
2	13
4	14
6	15
8	13

As we can see, the number 13 appears twice in the range, corresponding to the elements 2 and 8 in the domain. This means that the element 2 in the domain does not correspond to a unique element in the range, since both 2 and 8 in the domain map to the same element 13 in the range.

Conclusion

Based on our analysis, we can conclude that the given table does not represent a function. This is because the element 2 in the domain does not correspond to a unique element in the range, violating the definition of a function.

Answer

The correct answer is B. No.

Why is this important?

Understanding functions is crucial in mathematics, as it helps us to model real-world relationships and make predictions. In many fields, such as physics, engineering, and economics, functions are used to describe the behavior of systems and make predictions about future outcomes. Therefore, it is essential to be able to determine if a relation represents a function or not.

Real-World Applications

Functions are used in many real-world applications, such as:

Modeling population growth
Describing the motion of objects
Predicting stock prices
Analyzing data

In each of these cases, functions are used to describe the relationship between variables and make predictions about future outcomes.

Tips for Determining if a Relation Represents a Function

To determine if a relation represents a function, follow these tips:

Check if each element in the domain corresponds to a unique element in the range.
Look for any repeated elements in the range.
If you find any repeated elements in the range, the relation does not represent a function.

By following these tips, you can easily determine if a relation represents a function or not.

Conclusion

In the previous article, we discussed how to determine if a table represents a function. In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about functions.

Q: What is a function?

A: A function is a relation between a set of inputs (called the domain) and a set of possible outputs (called the range). For a relation to be considered a function, each input must correspond to exactly one output.

Q: What is the difference between a function and a relation?

A: A relation is a set of ordered pairs, where each pair consists of an input and an output. A function is a special type of relation where each input corresponds to exactly one output.

Q: How do I determine if a relation represents a function?

A: To determine if a relation represents a function, follow these steps:

Check if each element in the domain corresponds to a unique element in the range.
Look for any repeated elements in the range.
If you find any repeated elements in the range, the relation does not represent a function.

Q: What is the domain of a function?

A: The domain of a function is the set of all possible inputs. In other words, it is the set of all values that can be plugged into the function.

Q: What is the range of a function?

A: The range of a function is the set of all possible outputs. In other words, it is the set of all values that the function can produce.

Q: Can a function have multiple outputs for the same input?

A: No, a function cannot have multiple outputs for the same input. By definition, a function is a relation where each input corresponds to exactly one output.

Q: Can a function have no outputs for a particular input?

A: Yes, a function can have no outputs for a particular input. This is known as a "hole" in the function.

Q: What is the difference between a function and a relation with a hole?

A: A function is a relation where each input corresponds to exactly one output. A relation with a hole is a relation where some inputs do not correspond to any outputs.

Q: Can a function be represented graphically?

A: Yes, a function can be represented graphically using a graph. The graph will show the relationship between the input and output values.

Q: What is the significance of functions in real-world applications?

A: Functions are used in many real-world applications, such as:

Modeling population growth
Describing the motion of objects
Predicting stock prices
Analyzing data

In each of these cases, functions are used to describe the relationship between variables and make predictions about future outcomes.

Q: How do I find the inverse of a function?

A: To find the inverse of a function, follow these steps:

Write the function as a set of ordered pairs.
Swap the input and output values.
Write the resulting set of ordered pairs as a new function.

Q: What is the difference between a function and its inverse?

A: A function and its inverse are two related functions that are "reversed" from each other. The inverse of a function is a function that takes the output of the original function and produces the input.

Conclusion

In conclusion, functions are an essential concept in mathematics and are used in many real-world applications. By understanding functions and their properties, you can better analyze and model real-world relationships.