Even and Odd Functions

• Know the definitions of even and odd functions and how even and odd functions relate to reflections

 

Even Function

You may recall from Algebra 2 that an even function is symmetric about the y-axis. This means that every point on the right of the y-axis could be reflected across the y-axis to create the other half of the graph. In other words, if the point (x, y) is on an even function, then (-x, y) will also be a point on the function.

y = x² is an example of an even function.

 

Odd Function

An odd function is symmetric about the origin. This means that if a point is on the odd function g(x) and you reflect it across (0, 0), the resulting point will also be on g(x). So if (x, y) is on g, then (-x, -y) will be on g as well.

y = x³ is an example of an odd function.

You try it!

Try the activity below to test your understanding of reflections and even/odd functions.

	Drag the labels from the bottom to the correct slots.

 

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