Week01- Learning Journal Unit 1: Exploring the Concept of Functions

Ingyin Thant

University of the People

MATH 1201-01: College Algebra

Dr. Jignesh Chauhan (Ph. D. Mathematics)

November 23, 2023

 Exploring the Concept of Functions

The concept of a function has been a foundational aspect of my mathematical understanding,

evolving as I delved into various mathematical topics. As I reflect on the concept of a

function, several key concepts from Abramson's "Algebra and Trigonometry" have played a

crucial role in accommodating this idea in my mind.

The first and fundamental distinction is between a function and a relation (Abramson, 2021,

p.181-183). Understanding that every function is a relation, but not every relation is a

function, was a pivotal concept. The requirement that each input maps to only one output

defines a function, distinguishing it from a general relation.

The use of function notation (Abramson, 2021, p.184-185) has been another essential

concept. Expressing a function as f(x) emphasizes the variable relationship and provides a

convenient shorthand for complex expressions. This notation also aids in representing

functions using tables (Abramson, 2021, p.185), making it easier to comprehend and work

with large sets of data.

In the process of evaluating functions, the distinction between algebraic forms and tabular

forms (Abramson, 2021, p.188-191) is crucial. This understanding enables me to manipulate

functions expressed in different ways, whether through equations or tabular representations.

The tests for one-to-one functions, such as the Vertical Line Test (Abramson, 2021,

p.193-195) and the Horizontal Line Test (Abramson, 2021, p.196-197), are crucial for

determining the uniqueness of the relationship between inputs and outputs. These tests are

particularly helpful when dealing with graphical representations of functions.

Moving on to the concept of domain and range (Abramson, 2021, p.205-211), understanding

how to find the domain of a function defined by an equation and using notations like
Set-Builder and Interval Notation has been pivotal. This knowledge is particularly useful in

specifying and working with the valid inputs and outputs of a function.

A simple function that comes to mind is the linear function f(x)=2x+3f(x)=2x+3. This

function embodies simplicity, featuring a constant rate of change and a clear linear

relationship between the input and output.

In my day-to-day life, the idea of a function is ubiquitous. Consider the relationship between

time spent studying and grades obtained. If we denote time as the input and grades as the

output, each unit of time invested influences the corresponding grade. This real-world

scenario can be interpreted as a function.

While a function itself might not be visible, its graphical representation provides a visual

insight into its behavior. The strategy I use to graph a function involves understanding its key

characteristics, such as intercepts, symmetry, and asymptotes, and utilizing these to sketch an

accurate representation.

In conclusion, the concept of a function is a multifaceted and integral aspect of mathematics.

Through the lens of Abramson's textbook, I've developed a nuanced understanding of

functions, their notations, evaluations, and graphical representations. These concepts have not

only enriched my mathematical knowledge but also provided me with tools to interpret and

analyze various phenomena in my daily life.

Reference:

Abramson, J. (2021). Algebra and trigonometry (2nd ed.). Chapter 3, Sections 3.1-3.3.