In a function, which value is the dependent variable?

In a function, which value is the dependent variable?

• A. the x-value in a function
• B. the rate of change
• C. y-value in a function
• D. the independent variable

Answer: (C)

In a function, the output value is what depends on the input. When you see an expression like y = f(x), the y-value you get after plugging in x is the dependent variable because its value changes based on which x you choose. The x-value is the independent variable—the input you control. The rate of change describes how y changes as x changes, not a variable itself.

In a function, the output value is what depends on the input. When you see an expression like y = f(x), the y-value you get after plugging in x is the dependent variable because its value changes based on which x you choose. The x-value is the independent variable—the input you control. The rate of change describes how y changes as x changes, not a variable itself.