Graphs flashcards

Increasing

The values on the vertical axis increase as the values on the horizontal axis increase in a specified interval.

Decreasing

The values on the vertical axis decrease as the values on the horizontal axis increase.

Constant

The values on the vertical axis remain the same as the values on the horizontal axis increase.

Maximum

The largest value on the graph as read on the vertical axis.

Minimum

The smallest value on the graph as read on the vertical axis.

Discrete

Consists of distinct and separate points that may or may not be joined by a dotted line or curve.

Continuous

Consists of all points within a given interval (solid line or curve).

Linear

The shape of the graph is a straight line.

Non-linear

The shape of the graph is a curve rather than a line.

Gradient (m > 0)

If the coefficient of x in y = mx + c is positive, the line is increasing (slopes up) from left to right.

Gradient (m < 0)

If the coefficient of x in y = mx + c is negative, the line is decreasing (slopes down) from left to right.

Parallel lines

Lines whose equations have the same coefficient of x (same gradient/m value) are parallel.

Y-intercept

The point where a graph crosses the y-axis. Found by substituting x = 0 into the equation.

X-intercept

The point where a graph crosses the x-axis. Found by substituting y = 0 into the equation and solving for x.

Gradient (m)

In y = mx + c, m is the gradient (slope) of the line.

Constant (c)

In y = mx + c, c is the constant term, and it is always equal to the y-intercept, since y = c when x = 0.