Part a: a graph passes through the points (0, 4), (1, 8), and (2, 10). does this graph represent a linear function or a non-linear function? explain your answer in words. part b: write one example of a linear function and one example of a non-linear function. (use x and y as the variables) (10 points)

Part A:  In (0,4) and (1,8), as x increases from 0 to 1, y increases from 4 to 8.  The slope of the line connecting these 2 pts. is (8-4) / (1-0), or 4.  Now do the same thing for the 2 pts (1,8) and (2, 10).  You will find that the slope in the 2nd case is different.  Thus, the 3 given pts do NOT lie on a straight line.  Function is non-linear.

Part B:  an example of a non-linear function would be y = 2x^2 - 5.  You can tell immediately from that exponent, 2, that this function is non linear.

An ex. of a linear function would include x to the 1st power only:  y = 3x - 7.