Which equation describes a linear function?

A.
5x + 1 = y
B.
5x3 + 1 = y
C.
(5x)2 + 1 = y
D.
5x2 + 1 = y

Online "^" is used to indicate an exponent, e.g., x^2 = x squared.

The one without an exponent.

The equation that describes a linear function is A. 5x + 1 = y.

To determine this, we can compare the equations and look for characteristics that define a linear function.

A linear function is a function that represents a straight line. In general, the equation of a linear function takes the form y = mx + b, where m is the slope of the line and b is the y-intercept.

Comparing the given options:
A. 5x + 1 = y - This equation is in the form y = mx + b, where m = 5 and b = 1. Thus, it represents a linear function.
B. 5x^3 + 1 = y - This equation involves an exponent of 3, which means it is a cubic function, not a linear function.
C. (5x)^2 + 1 = y - This equation involves squaring the term (5x), making it quadratic, not linear.
D. 5x^2 + 1 = y - Similar to option B, this equation involves an exponent of 2, so it is a quadratic function, not a linear function.

Therefore, the equation that describes a linear function is A. 5x + 1 = y.