Math Problem Statement

The points (–6,–9) and (–3,9) fall on a particular line. What is its equation in point-slope form?

Solution

To find the equation of the line passing through the points (6,9)(-6, -9) and (3,9)(-3, 9), we need to first calculate the slope of the line and then use the point-slope form of the equation of a line.

Step 1: Calculate the slope mm

The formula to find the slope between two points (x1,y1)(x_1, y_1) and (x2,y2)(x_2, y_2) is:

m=y2y1x2x1m = \frac{y_2 - y_1}{x_2 - x_1}

Substitute the points (6,9)(-6, -9) and (3,9)(-3, 9):

m=9(9)3(6)=9+93+6=183=6m = \frac{9 - (-9)}{-3 - (-6)} = \frac{9 + 9}{-3 + 6} = \frac{18}{3} = 6

So, the slope m=6m = 6.

Step 2: Use the point-slope form of the equation

The point-slope form of a line is:

yy1=m(xx1)y - y_1 = m(x - x_1)

We can use either of the two given points (6,9)(-6, -9) or (3,9)(-3, 9). Let's use the point (6,9)(-6, -9):

y(9)=6(x(6))y - (-9) = 6(x - (-6))

Simplify:

y+9=6(x+6)y + 9 = 6(x + 6)

Final Answer:

The equation of the line in point-slope form is:

y+9=6(x+6)y + 9 = 6(x + 6)

Would you like more details on how this form works or need clarification on any step?

Here are some related questions:

  1. How do you convert point-slope form to slope-intercept form?
  2. How do you find the equation of a line when given just the slope and one point?
  3. What is the general equation of a line in standard form?
  4. How would you find the equation of a line parallel or perpendicular to another?
  5. How do you calculate the distance between two points on a line?

Tip: The point-slope form is especially useful when you know a point on the line and the slope!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Linear Equations
Point-Slope Form

Formulas

Slope formula: m = (y2 - y1) / (x2 - x1)
Point-Slope Form: y - y1 = m(x - x1)

Theorems

Point-Slope Form of a Line

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10