Understanding the Constant of Proportionality

Miss Jacobson explains how to find the constant of proportionality in proportional graphs. She uses examples of water usage and hiking distance graphs to demonstrate the process. The video covers setting up tables, identifying patterns, and calculating the constant using the formula y = kx. Tips for handling non-whole number constants are also provided.

What is the constant of proportionality in a proportional graph?

• The ratio of y to x

• The number you multiply x by to get y

• The difference between x and y variables

• The sum of x and y variables

In the water usage example, what is the constant of proportionality?

• 7

• 5

• 10

• 3

How can you find the constant of proportionality using a table?

• By finding a pattern in the table

• By multiplying x and y

• By subtracting x from y

• By adding x and y values

What is the formula for finding the constant of proportionality?

• y = x + k

• y = x / k

• y = k - x

• y = k * x

In the hiking distance example, what is the constant of proportionality?

• 5/6

• 5/7

• 6/5

• 7/5

Why might the constant of proportionality not be a whole number?

• Because x is always larger than y

• Because the ratio of y to x is a fraction

• Because the graph is not proportional

• Because x and y are always equal

How can you determine the constant of proportionality if it's not clear from the table?

• By guessing

• By using the y/x ratio

• By adding all x values

• By subtracting y from x

What is the benefit of using the y/x ratio to find the constant of proportionality?

• It makes the graph non-proportional

• It provides an exact whole number

• It simplifies the calculation

• It eliminates the need for a table

What should you do if the constant of proportionality is not immediately clear?

• Multiply all values by 10

• Create a y/x column in the table

• Use a calculator

• Ignore the problem

What is the relationship between x and y in a proportional graph?

• x is always greater than y

• x and y are unrelated

• y is always greater than x

• y is a constant multiple of x