8th Grade · Functions
Nonlinear
8.F.B.5
Definition
Describes a function whose graph is not a straight line and whose rate of change is not constant. The differences between successive outputs are unequal.
Examples
- Differences of +3, +5, +7 are unequal, showing a nonlinear pattern.
- A curved graph is nonlinear.
Key rule
Unequal differences in a table signal a nonlinear function.
Memory hook
Curved graph, changing rate.