Direct Variation

Topic

Linear Functions

Definition

Direct variation describes a linear relationship between two variables where one variable is a constant multiple of the other, expressed as y = kx, where k is the constant of variation.

Description

Direct variation is a fundamental concept in linear functions, illustrating how one variable changes proportionally with another. The constant of variation, k, represents the rate of change.

In real-world scenarios, direct variation can model relationships such as speed and distance, where distance traveled varies directly with time at a constant speed. Understanding this concept is crucial in fields like physics and engineering.

In education, direct variation helps students grasp proportional relationships and their graphical representations. It lays the foundation for more complex functions and is essential for solving real-life problems involving proportionality.

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