Answer:
In mathematics, a function is a rule that assigns one unique output value for each input value. A linear function is a function that has a constant rate of change between its input and output values. This means that if we plot the function on a graph, it will form a straight line.
For example, the function f(x) = 2x + 1 is a linear function because its graph is a straight line. As x increases by 1, the output of the function increases by 2.
On the other hand, a nonlinear function is a function that does not have a constant rate of change between its input and output values. This means that if we plot the function on a graph, it will not form a straight line.
For example, the function f(x) = x^2 is a nonlinear function because its graph is a curve. As x increases, the output of the function increases at an increasing rate.
In general, nonlinear functions can take many different forms and can have complex behaviors, whereas linear functions have a simple, predictable behavior.