In the top two graphs, the value of y depends upon the value of x.
The top graph looks close to: y = -|x| + 2 so, as you put in various values for x, you get different values for y.
The middle graph looks like a modification of a y = sin(x) or y = cos(x) graph. Again, as you put in different values for x, you get different values for y.
But, the last one: The only number that you can put in for x is 1.5, but there are an infinite number of y-values that pair with this x-value. Some examples are (1.5,0), (1.5,1), (1.5,-2), (1.5,653434). The value of y does not depend upon the value of x; it can be anything. So, this is not a function. Similarly, it does not pass the vertical line test; the vertical line that passes throught this vertical line hits this line, not in just 1 point, but in an infinite number of points.
Does this help or it is as clear as mud?
The vertical line test: when looking at a graph, if every vertical line that you can draw will intersect the graph in at most one point, then the graph is the graph of a function.
So, two out of the three are function, but one of them isn't. Can you figure out which are functions?
WAIT THIS IS THE WRONG QUESTION!! THE QUESTION IS
Decide whether the graph represents y as a function of x. Explain your reasoning.
In the top two graphs, the value of y depends upon the value of x.
The top graph looks close to: y = -|x| + 2 so, as you put in various values for x, you get different values for y.
The middle graph looks like a modification of a y = sin(x) or y = cos(x) graph. Again, as you put in different values for x, you get different values for y.
But, the last one: The only number that you can put in for x is 1.5, but there are an infinite number of y-values that pair with this x-value. Some examples are (1.5,0), (1.5,1), (1.5,-2), (1.5,653434). The value of y does not depend upon the value of x; it can be anything. So, this is not a function. Similarly, it does not pass the vertical line test; the vertical line that passes throught this vertical line hits this line, not in just 1 point, but in an infinite number of points.
Does this help or it is as clear as mud?