In this post, I will provide my own definitions for the terms “equation” and “function.” These terms are not research based and are derived from my own experiences in mathematics. I’ll post a revision later.
Equation – An equation is a statement of equality between two mathematical expressions. These statements may or may not have variables. Algebraic equations contain variables while numeric equations have only numbers.
- Example 1: Numeric Equation
4(6+2) = 24 + 8
- Example 2: Algebraic Equation
7x + 3 = 24
Numeric Equation
Function – A function is a mathematical rule that describes the relationship between two numbers. When different numbers are entered into the function, different values are outputted.
- Example 3: Function
For y = 3x – 12 if x = 4, y = 0; if x = 8, y = 12; if x = 0, y = -12, etc.
References
http://openclipart.org/people/jetxee/jetxee_people_near_a_blackboard.png
http://www.clipartof.com/images/clipart/xsmall2/14118_simple_math_equation_written_in_chalk_on_a_blackboard.jpg
Andy,
I think I know what you mean when you say “When different numbers are entered into the function, different values are outputted.” However, you could enter two different numbers, such as 6 and 10, and output the number 20 for both. The key is that no matter how many times you enter 6 or 10, you always get 20.
Tom