Math Problem Statement

Find the slope of the​ line, if it is defined. Through ​(- 3​,- 12​) and ​(- 4​,7​)

Solution

To find the slope of a line passing through two points (3,12)(-3, -12) and (4,7)(-4, 7), we use the slope formula:

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

Where:

  • (x1,y1)(x_1, y_1) is (3,12)(-3, -12)
  • (x2,y2)(x_2, y_2) is (4,7)(-4, 7)

Now substitute the values into the formula:

m=7(12)4(3)=7+124+3=191=19m = \frac{7 - (-12)}{-4 - (-3)} = \frac{7 + 12}{-4 + 3} = \frac{19}{-1} = -19

So, the slope of the line is m=19m = -19.

Would you like any further details or clarifications?

Here are 5 related questions:

  1. How would you find the equation of the line using this slope?
  2. What is the significance of a negative slope?
  3. How can you verify the slope using a graph?
  4. What does it mean if the slope is undefined?
  5. How would the slope change if the coordinates were swapped?

Tip: Always check the order of subtraction when calculating slope to avoid sign errors!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Coordinate Geometry
Slope of a Line

Formulas

Slope formula: m = (y2 - y1) / (x2 - x1)

Theorems

-

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10