In the context of variation, what does y = k/x represent?

The equation ( y = \frac{k}{x} ) represents an inverse variation relationship between ( y ) and ( x ). In inverse variation, as one variable increases, the other variable decreases in such a way that their product remains constant. Here, ( k ) is a constant, and it signifies that the product of ( y ) and ( x ) (i.e., ( y \cdot x )) equals ( k ).

This means that if you were to graph the equation, you would observe a hyperbolic shape, indicating that ( y ) and ( x ) move in opposite directions: as ( x ) gets larger, ( y ) gets smaller, and vice versa. This behavior is characteristic of inverse variation.

In contrast, direct variation describes a scenario where ( y = kx ), indicating that both variables increase together, maintaining a constant ratio. A linear function typically takes the form ( y = mx + b ), representing a straight line, while a quadratic function takes the form ( y = ax^2 + bx + c ), displaying a parabolic shape. Each of these relationships has distinct mathematical properties and graphical representations, setting them apart from inverse variation.