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Understanding Direct Variation in Math

The document discusses models of physical situations and variation. It explains that models are developed by recording variable values in tables and graphs, and defining the relationship between variables with equations. When a dependent quantity changes with an independent quantity, it is said to vary with respect to that quantity. The type of variation depends on the specific relationship between the variables. Direct proportion, also called variation, means that dependent and independent quantities change at the same rate. The constant of proportionality relates the ratio of corresponding values of the variables.

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3 views4 pages

Understanding Direct Variation in Math

The document discusses models of physical situations and variation. It explains that models are developed by recording variable values in tables and graphs, and defining the relationship between variables with equations. When a dependent quantity changes with an independent quantity, it is said to vary with respect to that quantity. The type of variation depends on the specific relationship between the variables. Direct proportion, also called variation, means that dependent and independent quantities change at the same rate. The constant of proportionality relates the ratio of corresponding values of the variables.

Uploaded by

Alex Lee
Copyright
© Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Variation

Models of physical situations are often arrived at by recording the values of variables in a table and by sketching graphs. Examining the tabulated values and the graph, we try to define the relationship between the variables by an equation. The equation thus derived is called a mathematical model. If the value of a dependent quantity changes as a result of changes in the value of an independent quantity, then we say that one quantity varies with respect to the other. However, the type of variation depends on the relationship.

Direct Proportion (or Variation)


A cyclist's progress over a journey of 120 km is recorded. The results are tabulated below and plotted on a graph.

In such a case, we say that:

This is written as:

From the tabulated values, we find that:

In general:

The constant k is called the constant of variation or the constant of proportionality. Graphically, this relation takes the shape of a straight line with gradient equal to the value of k.

Example 9
If y varies directly as x and y = 15 when x = 5, find the formula connecting x and y. Hence find y when x = 8.

Solution:

This is the required formula.

Example 10
Use the following diagram to find the relationship that exists between x and y. Hence find y when x is 9.5.

Solution:

Models of physical situations are often arrived at by recording the values of variables in a table and by sketching graphs. Examining the tabulated values and the graph, we try to define the relationship between the variables by an equation. The equation thus derived is called a mathematical model.

If the value of a dependent quantity changes as a result of changes in the value of an independent quantity, then we say that one quantity varies with respect to the other. However, the type of variation depends on the relationship.

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