Dependent variable

Definition

A dependent variable is the output of a function, which depends on the value of the independent variable. It is often represented by $y$ or $f(x)$ in equations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In the equation $y = f(x)$, $y$ is the dependent variable.
2. The dependent variable changes in response to the independent variable.
3. On a graph, the dependent variable is typically plotted on the y-axis.
4. In function notation, $f(x)$ denotes the dependent variable when $x$ is given as an input.
5. Understanding how to determine and manipulate the dependent variable is crucial for solving algebraic functions.

Review Questions

• What does the dependent variable represent in a function?
• Where is the dependent variable typically plotted on a graph?
• How can you identify the dependent variable in function notation?

Related terms

Independent Variable: The input of a function that determines the value of the dependent variable; often represented by $x$.

Function: A relation between sets that associates each element of one set with exactly one element of another set.

$f(x)$: $f(x)$ represents a function where $x$ is an independent variable and $f(x)$ is the corresponding output or dependent variable.