If 'a' is negative, the function f(x) = ax performs a reflection of the input value.
When the value of 'a' is negative in the function f(x) = ax, it represents a reflection of the input value (x) across the y-axis.
Here's why:
A positive value of 'a' stretches or shrinks the input value along the y-axis.
A negative value of 'a' flips the input value across the y-axis, essentially mirroring it.
Therefore, if 'a' is negative, the function f(x) = ax performs a reflection of the input value.