Explanations 
Flashcards 
StudySmarter IA 
Notes 
Study Plans 
Study Sets 
Exams 
Magazine 
Find a job 
Mobile App 
Jump to a key chapter
Direct Variation
Direct variation is a relationship between two variables in which one variable is a constant multiple of the other. This means that as one variable increases or decreases, the other does so proportionally.
Definition
In a direct variation, the relationship is represented by the equation \[ y = kx \] where k is a non-zero constant called the constant of variation.
Example
If you have the direct variation equation \( y = 5x \), and you know that \( x = 2 \), you can find \( y \) by substituting \( x \) into the equation: \[ y = 5(2) = 10 \]
Direct variation is often seen in real-world scenarios. For instance, the relationship between the distance travelled by a car and time, assuming a constant speed, is a direct variation. Here, distance is directly proportional to time, with the constant of variation being the speed of the car.
In direct variation, if the constant of variation k is positive, both variables increase together. If k is negative, one variable increases while the other decreases.
Direct variation is also known as a linear relationship without an intercept. This means that the graph of a direct variation equation is a straight line passing through the origin.To determine if a set of data points follows a direct variation, plot the points on a graph. If they form a straight line through the origin, you have direct variation. Another method involves checking the ratio \( \frac{y}{x} \) for all data points. If the ratio (constant k) remains the same, the data represents direct variation.
Direct Variation Formula
In mathematics, a direct variation describes a specific linearly dependent relationship between two variables. This relationship is defined by a formula that expresses one variable as a multiple of the other.
Definition
A direct variation between two variables can be expressed with the equation \( y = kx \), where k is the constant of variation. This constant k must be non-zero.
Example
Consider an example where the relationship between two variables is given by the equation \( y = 3x \). If \( x = 4 \), you can find \( y \) by substituting the value of \( x \): \[ y = 3(4) = 12 \] Hence, when \( x = 4 \), \( y = 12 \) in this direct variation.
Direct variation is widely applicable in everyday scenarios. One common example is the relationship between the amount of fuel consumed by a car and the distance travelled. If the car's fuel consumption rate is constant, the amount of fuel (\( y \)) consumed is directly proportional to the distance (\( x \)) travelled. Here, the constant of variation is the fuel consumption rate.
In a direct variation, the graph of the equation \( y = kx \) is a straight line passing through the origin (0,0).
To determine if a set of data follows a direct variation, you can use the following methods:
- Plot the data points on a graph. If the points form a straight line that passes through the origin, then the data represents a direct variation.
- Calculate the ratio \( \frac{y}{x} \) for each data point. If the ratio is constant across all data points, the data is indicative of direct variation.
Direct Variation Equation
Direct variation refers to a relationship between two variables whereby one variable is a constant multiple of the other. This concept can be expressed algebraically and is useful in understanding linear relationships without any intercept.
Definition
In a direct variation, the equation is given by \( y = kx \) where \( k \) is a non-zero constant termed as the constant of variation.
Properties of the Direct Variation Equation
Here are some key properties of the direct variation equation:
- The relationship between \( y \) and \( x \) is linear.
- The graph of the equation \( y = kx \) is a straight line that passes through the origin (0,0).
- If \( k \) is positive, both variables increase together. If \( k \) is negative, one variable increases while the other decreases.
The constant of variation \( k \) can be found by dividing \( y \) by \( x \): \( k = \frac{y}{x} \).
Example
Let's consider an example to understand the direct variation equation better. Suppose you have the equation \( y = 4x \). If \( x = 3 \), substitute \( x \) into the equation to find \( y \): \[ y = 4(3) = 12 \] Hence, when \( x = 3 \), \( y = 12 \) in this direct variation.
Real-World Application
Direct variation can be observed in numerous real-world scenarios. For instance, consider the relationship between the distance travelled by a car and the amount of time driven, assuming a constant speed. In this case, the distance \( y \) is directly proportional to the time \( x \), with the constant of variation being the speed of the car.
To verify if a set of data represents direct variation, you can:
- Plot the data points on a graph. If the points form a straight line that passes through the origin, then the data represents a direct variation.
- Calculate the ratio \( \frac{y}{x} \) for each data point. If the ratio remains constant for all data points, it indicates direct variation.
The direct variation formula is a fundamental concept in algebra that provides a foundation for understanding more complex mathematical relationships. By recognising the simple proportional relationship between two variables, you can make accurate predictions and understand the behaviour of various systems.
Direct Variation Examples
Direct variation in mathematics can be best understood through practical examples. These examples help clarify the relationship between variables. Understanding direct variation through examples is essential for grasping the concept fully.
Simple Direct Variation Examples
Consider the equation \( y = 3x \). Suppose \( x = 2 \), you can find \( y \) by substituting \( x \) into the equation: \( y = 3(2) = 6 \) Hence, when \( x = 2 \), \( y = 6 \).
Let's look at another simple case: \( y = -4x \). If \( x = 5 \), then: \( y = -4(5) = -20 \) In this case, when \( x = 5 \), \( y = -20 \).
A deeper dive into the concept reveals that direct variation equations always produce straight-line graphs passing through the origin. This holds true regardless of the constant of variation's value. Additionally, you can check if different sets of \( x \) and \( y \) values represent direct variation by calculating their ratios. If all ratios are equal, the relationship is a direct variation.
Real-Life Direct Variation Examples
Direct variation often occurs in real-life scenarios, making it a highly practical concept.
Consider the relationship between the number of hours worked and the wages earned. If you earn $10 per hour, the total wages \( y \) can be expressed as \( y = 10x \), where \( x \) is the number of hours worked.If you work for 8 hours, the total wages would be:\( y = 10(8) = 80 \)$
Another common example is the relationship between distance travelled and time when moving at a constant speed. If you drive at a speed of 60 km/h, the distance \( y \) travelled can be represented as \( y = 60x \), where \( x \) is the time in hours.
Always remember, in direct variation, if \( k \) is positive, both variables increase simultaneously. If \( k \) is negative, one variable increases while the other decreases.
Direct Variation Problems
Solving direct variation problems requires you to establish the relationship between variables and then find the constant of variation. Typically, you'll be given some values and asked to find others.
For instance, if \( y \text{ varies directly with } x \) and \( y = 24 \) when \( x = 8 \), determine the equation of the direct variation:Using the given values, find the constant of variation \( k \):\( k = \frac{y}{x} = \frac{24}{8} = 3 \)Thus, the equation is \( y = 3x \).
You might encounter inverse problems where you are given the equation and asked to find specific variables. For example, using \( y = 3x \), find \( y \) when \( x = 7 \).
Solving Direct Variation Problems
Step-by-step approaches to solving direct variation problems can help you better understand the process. Here is a systematic method:
- Identify the variables and determine if the relationship is direct variation.
- Find the constant of variation \( k \).
- Use the equation \( y = kx \) to solve for the required variable.
Consider a more complex problem where you combine various direct variations across multiple scenarios. For example, if the distance \( y \) travelled by a car varies directly with time \( x \), and the speed \( z \) varies directly with fuel consumption \( w \), you may need to calculate \( y \) given values for \( z \) and \( w \). This involves using multiple direct variation equations simultaneously and finding relationships between multiple constants of variation.
Direct variation - Key takeaways
- Direct variation: A relationship where one variable is a constant multiple of another.
- Direct variation equation: Represented by the formula
y = kx, where k is the constant of variation. - Examples: Real-world examples include the relationship between distance travelled by a car and time, and the relationship between hours worked and wages earned.
- Graphical representation: The graph of a direct variation formula is a straight line passing through the origin (0,0).
- Determining direct variation: Can be identified by plotting data points on a graph or ensuring the ratio
y/xremains constant.
Learn with 12 Direct variation flashcards in the free StudySmarter app
Already have an account? Log in
Frequently Asked Questions about Direct variation
Test your knowledge with multiple choice flashcards
YOUR SCORE
Your score
Join the StudySmarter App and learn efficiently with millions of flashcards and more!
Learn with 12 Direct variation flashcards in the free StudySmarter app
Already have an account? Log in
About StudySmarter
StudySmarter is a globally recognized educational technology company, offering a holistic learning platform designed for students of all ages and educational levels. Our platform provides learning support for a wide range of subjects, including STEM, Social Sciences, and Languages and also helps students to successfully master various tests and exams worldwide, such as GCSE, A Level, SAT, ACT, Abitur, and more. We offer an extensive library of learning materials, including interactive flashcards, comprehensive textbook solutions, and detailed explanations. The cutting-edge technology and tools we provide help students create their own learning materials. StudySmarter’s content is not only expert-verified but also regularly updated to ensure accuracy and relevance.
Learn more