Math Problem Statement

What is an equation of the line that passes through the points (-2, 4) and (3, -6)?

Solution

To find the equation of a line passing through two points, we’ll use the formula for the slope mm and the point-slope form of a line. Here’s the step-by-step solution:

Step 1: Find the Slope

The points given are (2,4)(-2, 4) and (3,6)(3, -6).

The slope mm is calculated as: m=y2y1x2x1=643(2)=105=2m = \frac{y_2 - y_1}{x_2 - x_1} = \frac{-6 - 4}{3 - (-2)} = \frac{-10}{5} = -2

Step 2: Use the Point-Slope Form

Now, we use the point-slope form yy1=m(xx1)y - y_1 = m(x - x_1). Using the slope m=2m = -2 and one of the points, say (2,4)(-2, 4):

y4=2(x+2)y - 4 = -2(x + 2)

Step 3: Simplify to Slope-Intercept Form

Expand and simplify to get the equation in y=mx+by = mx + b form:

y4=2x4y - 4 = -2x - 4 y=2xy = -2x

Conclusion

The correct equation

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Linear Equations
Slope-Intercept Form

Formulas

Slope formula: m = (y2 - y1) / (x2 - x1)
Point-slope form: y - y1 = m(x - x1)
Slope-intercept form: y = mx + b

Theorems

Equation of a line

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10