Which of the following is not a function?

y = 3x + 5
y = +/- x√
y = x
y = 5x

1 answer

To determine which of the given expressions is not a function, we apply the vertical line test: if a vertical line can intersect the graph of the relation at more than one point, then it is not a function.

Let's analyze each equation:

  1. \(y = 3x + 5\): This is a linear equation and represents a straight line. It passes the vertical line test, so it is a function.

  2. \(y = \pm x\sqrt{}\): This is ambiguous as written, but it suggests two separate equations: \(y = x\) and \(y = -x\). Together, these represent two straight lines that are symmetric about the origin. A vertical line can intersect both lines at the same x-value, meaning this is not a function.

  3. \(y = x\): This is a linear equation and represents a straight line that passes through the origin. It passes the vertical line test, so it is a function.

  4. \(y = 5x\): This is also a linear equation representing another straight line. It also passes the vertical line test, so it is a function.

Thus, the equation that is not a function is \(y = \pm x\sqrt{}\).