Math Problem Statement

given that the graph of y=kx passes through (a,b) and a/b=2, then what does k equal?

Solution

Given that the graph of y=kxy = kx passes through the point (a,b)(a, b) and ab=2\frac{a}{b} = 2, we need to determine the value of kk.

  1. Since the point (a,b)(a, b) lies on the line y=kxy = kx, we can substitute x=ax = a and y=by = b into the equation: b=kab = ka

  2. We are also given that ab=2\frac{a}{b} = 2. This implies: a=2ba = 2b

  3. Substitute a=2ba = 2b into the equation b=kab = ka: b=k(2b)b = k(2b)

  4. Simplify this equation: b=2kbb = 2kb

  5. To solve for kk, divide both sides by bb (assuming b0b \neq 0): 1=2k1 = 2k

  6. Finally, solve for kk: k=12k = \frac{1}{2}

Answer:

The value of kk is 12\frac{1}{2}.

Would you like more details, or do you have any questions?


Here are some related questions:

  1. What happens to the line's slope if ab=12\frac{a}{b} = \frac{1}{2} instead?
  2. How does the line y=kxy = kx change if k=12k = -\frac{1}{2}?
  3. What is the significance of kk when y=kxy = kx passes through the origin?
  4. How would the equation change if the point given was in the form (a,b)(-a, -b)?
  5. What happens to kk if the ratio ab\frac{a}{b} changes?

Tip: When given points or ratios, substituting them directly into the equation can simplify solving for unknown variables.