Which of the following shapes corresponds to the function y = |x|?

The function ( y = |x| ) represents the absolute value function, which produces a graph that resembles a V shape. This is because the absolute value function outputs non-negative values for all x; it outputs the same positive value for both positive and negative x.

When plotted, the left arm of the V extends upwards from the origin as x approaches zero negatively, and the right arm extends upwards from the origin as x approaches zero positively. At zero, the function value is also zero, resulting in a sharp point at the origin.

This characteristic of the graph, with two linear segments meeting at the vertex (the origin), is what gives the graph of ( y = |x| ) its distinct V shape. Each of the other options does not correctly describe the graph of this function, as none exhibit the defining point of meeting at the origin or the linear behavior of the two arms extending away from that point.