Rate of Change

Topic

Linear Functions

Definition

Rate of change in a linear function is the ratio of the change in the dependent variable to the change in the independent variable, often represented as the slope m in the equation y = mx + b.

Description

Rate of change is a fundamental concept in understanding linear functions. It describes how one variable changes in relation to another, and is graphically represented by the slope of a line.

In real-world applications, the rate of change is used in various fields such as economics, physics, and biology to model relationships and predict future behavior. For example, in economics, it can represent the rate at which costs increase with production levels.

In education, understanding the rate of change helps students grasp the concept of slope and its significance in linear relationships. It is essential for solving problems involving linear equations and interpreting data in various contexts.

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