Final answer:
The set of points (-5, -1), (-4, -1), (3, 3), (-1, 5), (1, 7) represents a function because each x-value is paired with only one y-value, satisfying the definition of a function.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine if the set of points (-5, -1), (-4, -1), (3, 3), (-1, 5), (1, 7) represents a function, we must check if for every x-value there is only one y-value associated with it. In a function, each input (or x-value) can correspond to only one output (or y-value), which is known as the definition of a function in the context of dependence of y on x. A good way to test this visually is to use the 'vertical line test' on a graph. If any vertical line intersects the graph at more than one point, then the set of points does not represent a function. In the set of points provided, it's clear that each x-value is unique and paired with only one y-value. This indicates that the set of points does represent a function.