Final answer:
The initial value in a word problem using a linear function represents the y-intercept, which is the value of the dependent variable when the independent variable is zero.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a word problem that uses a linear function, the initial value refers to the starting point or y-intercept of the linear equation. The y-intercept is the value of y when x is equal to zero. It represents the value of the dependent variable before any changes occur to the independent variable.
For example, let's say we have a word problem about the cost of renting a car. If the linear equation is y = 50x + 100, where y represents the cost and x represents the number of days, then the initial value of 100 indicates that there is a $100 cost (y) even if you rent the car for 0 days (x = 0).