Need help with functions. Problem: Gerri made a function machine. Find the rule for Gerri's function machine.
-1 Goes in -1 Comes Out. What functions went on?

Question

Need help with functions. Problem: Gerri made a function machine. Find the rule for Gerri's function machine. 
-1 Goes in -1 Comes Out. What functions went on?

anonymous · Answer

Functions look like, in general, y = f(x).  x is your independent variable and y is the dependent variable.  That' for starters.

anonymous · Answer

Yes, I undersand that.

anonymous · Answer

Ok, now, f(x) = something.  You put in -1 and got back -1.  So, generalizing, what you put in is what you get out.  So, if we go back to f(x) = something, what is something?

anonymous · Answer

-1? I still don't understand. I'm sorry it just isn't clicking.

anonymous · Answer

np.  It's probably because it's too obvious.  That happens with everyone from time to time.  x went in and x came out.  So, f(x) = x.

anonymous · Answer

So, y= x.

anonymous · Answer

Oh, I got it! Thank you.

anonymous · Answer

you're welcome.