Basic Technical Mathematics, 11th Edition

3 Functions and Graphs

LEARNING OUTCOMES

After completion of this chapter, the student should be able to:

• Define a function and distinguish between dependent and independent variables

• Use mathematical functional notation

• Interpret a function as a process

• Determine domain and range for a function

• Graph a function using the rectangular coordinate system

• Use a graphing calculator to solve an equation graphically

• Graph and interpret sets of data values

By noting, for example, that stones fall faster than leaves, the Greek philosopher Aristotle (about 350 b.c.e.) reasoned that heavier objects fall faster than lighter ones.

For about 2000 years, this idea was generally accepted. Then in about 1600, the Italian scientist Galileo showed, by dropping ...