To determine if the relation \( y = 4x - 1 \) is a function, we can follow two steps: graphing the relation and applying the vertical line test.
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Graphing the Relation: The equation \( y = 4x - 1 \) describes a linear function, where the slope is 4 and the y-intercept is -1. When graphed, it will produce a straight line.
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Applying the Vertical Line Test: To check if this relation defines \( y \) uniquely for each \( x \), we imagine drawing vertical lines on the graph. The vertical line test states that if any vertical line intersects the graph at more than one point, the relation is not a function. Since \( y = 4x - 1 \) is a straight line, any vertical line will intersect it at exactly one point.
Since the line passes the vertical line test, the relation \( y = 4x - 1 \) is indeed a function.
Thus, the answer is 1 (indicating that it is a function).