Direct Variation defined

Constant of Variation

In the formula, y=kx, k is referred to as the constant of variation OR the constant of proportionality. It is the coefficient of x (not y!)

A constant does not change in value.

What does it take to be a direct variation?

• The line on a graph will ALWAYS pass through the origin!

• Nothing is added or subtracted from kx in the formula; there is no "b". It is simply y = kx (y = mx would also work)

• All ordered pairs are proportional. If you divide the y from one ordered pair by its x and do that for all ordered pairs, the ratios will be equal!

How to graph a DIRECT VARIATION

Step 1. Plot a point on the origin, (0,0).

Step 2. Use k like you would slope to plot two more points.

Step 3. Connect the points with a line (with arrows on each end!)

Writing a DV from a graph

Y varies directly with x

This video is less than two minutes in length and shows one way of solving "varies directly with x" problems. ("directly proportional problems are done the same way)

How to determine a direct variation from a table

Remember that y = kx is the same as y = ax.

Constant of proportionality from tables

For each ordered pair given, (-4,1),(-3,0.75). (-2. 0.5) and (-1,0.25) if you divide the y value by the x value you find k for the ordered pairs. IF k is the same for each, then you have a direct variation and have found the constant of variation/the constant of proportionality

Direct Variation

Direct variation describes a simple relationship between two variables . We say y varies directly with x if: y=kx. for some constant k , called the constant of variation or constant of proportionality .

Direct Variation

The Graph of a Direct Variation will graph a straight line that will pass through the origin. The slope can be positive or negative. The slope of the line will equal the constant of variation.

Direct Variation

Using Tables

Direct Variation

You can solve problems involving direct variation. Just Remember

y/x = y/x..

Direct Variation

Using Tables

What is direct variation?

• Direct variation describes a simple relationship between two variables . We say y varies directly with x (or as x , in some textbooks) if: y=kx. for some constant k , called the constant of variation or constant of proportionality 

Examples of Direct Variation

• The number of hours you work DIRECTLY impacts the amount of money you make

• The amount of weight on a spring DIRECTLY impacts the distance the spring will stretch

• The speed of a car DIRECTLY impacts the distance traveled in a certain amount of time.