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If y varies inversely as x, how do you find the constant of variation if y = 5 when x = -1?

Answer 1

Eli Assouline

To find the constant of variation, we can use the formula for inverse variation: y = k/x.

Given that y = 5 when x = -1, we can substitute these values into the formula: 5 = k/(-1).

To solve for k, we can multiply both sides of the equation by -1: -5 = k.

Therefore, the constant of variation is -5.

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Answer 2

Isaiah Anthony

#y=(-5)/x#

Let #k# be a constant

Write as:#" "y=k/x#

It is given that at #y=5; x=-1#

So by substitution

#" "y=k/x" "->" "5=k/(-1)#

Multiply both sides by #(-1)#

#" "(-1)xx5=(-1)/(-1)xxk#

But #" "(-1)/(-1) = +1#

#" "k=-5#

So the equation is:

#" "y=(-5)/x#

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Answer from HIX Tutor

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.