👉 This explanation delves into the concept of a mathematical function, specifically focusing on linear functions. A linear function is a relationship between two variables, typically represented as \( y = mx + b \), where \( m \) is the slope of the line and \( b \) is the y-intercept. The slope \( m \) indicates how much \( y \) changes for each unit change in \( x \), and the y-intercept \( b \) is the point where the line crosses the y-axis. This function models a straight line on a coordinate plane, allowing predictions and analyses of relationships where changes are proportional and consistent. Linear functions are fundamental in various fields, including physics, economics, and engineering, for modeling simple relationships and solving problems involving rates of change.