1. **State the problem:** We are given the function for the area of a square as a function of its side length: $$a = s^2$$ 2. **Formula and explanation:** The formula $$a = s^2$$ means the area $$a$$ is equal to the side length $$s$$ squared. This is a quadratic function, not linear. 3. **Graph description:** The graph of $$a = s^2$$ is a parabola starting at the origin (0,0) and curving upwards as $$s$$ increases. This shape is characteristic of quadratic functions. 4. **Is the relationship linear?** A linear function has the form $$y = mx + b$$ and graphs as a straight line. Since $$a = s^2$$ is quadratic, its graph is curved, not a straight line. 5. **Conclusion:** The relationship between the side length $$s$$ and the area $$a$$ of a square is quadratic, not linear. Final answer: The function $$a = s^2$$ is quadratic, and its graph is a parabola, so the relationship is not linear.