Discrete
See It in Action
Two examples of the idea done right—and one common look-alike that is not right.
EXAMPLE
EXAMPLE
NON-EXAMPLE
Definition
In Algebra 1, "discrete" refers to a type of set or function that consists of separate, distinct values. Here’s a simple way to understand it:
Discrete means that the values are distinct and not connected. Imagine you have a set of points on a graph that are not connected by lines; each point stands alone. For example, if you have a list of specific numbers, like 1, 2, and 3, those are discrete values because they are separate from each other.
Discrete functions are functions where the input values (often represented by x are distinct and separate, not continuous. This means the function only takes on specific values, and its graph would consist of individual points rather than a smooth curve.
So, in summary, "discrete" in Algebra 1 means dealing with distinct, separate values or points, rather than a smooth, continuous line.