Math Problem Statement

The equation of the line that contains the points (-8, 1) and (0, -5) is...

Solution

To determine the equation of the line passing through the points (8,1)(-8, 1) and (0,5)(0, -5), we can proceed as follows:

  1. Calculate the Slope (m): The slope mm is given by: m=y2y1x2x1m = \frac{y_2 - y_1}{x_2 - x_1} Substituting (x1,y1)=(8,1)(x_1, y_1) = (-8, 1) and (x2,y2)=(0,5)(x_2, y_2) = (0, -5), m=510+8=68=34m = \frac{-5 - 1}{0 + 8} = \frac{-6}{8} = -\frac{3}{4}

  2. Use the Point-Slope Form to Find the Equation: The point-slope form of a line is: yy1=m(xx1)y - y_1 = m(x - x_1) Using the point (0,5)(0, -5) and the slope 34-\frac{3}{4}, y+5=34xy + 5 = -\frac{3}{4}x Simplifying, we get: y=34x5y = -\frac{3}{4}x - 5

  3. Identify the Correct Answer: The equation of the line is: y=34x5y = -\frac{3}{4}x - 5 This matches the third option.

Answer:

The correct answer is:

  • y=34x5y = -\frac{3}{4}x - 5

Would you like further details or have any questions?

Here are five related questions for further exploration:

  1. How would you find the equation of a line passing through two different points?
  2. What would be the equation if the points were (1,2)(1, 2) and (3,4)(3, 4)?
  3. How can you determine if two lines are parallel using their slopes?
  4. What does it mean geometrically if the slope of a line is negative?
  5. How do you convert from point-slope form to slope-intercept form?

Tip: Always check your calculations when determining the slope to ensure accuracy in finding the line equation.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Coordinate Geometry
Equation of a Line

Formulas

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

Theorems

Slope-Intercept Form

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10