Math Problem Statement

Work out the equation of the straight line shown in the graph. Give your answer in the form y = mx + c, where m and c are integers or fractions in their simplest forms.

Solution

To find the equation of the straight line shown in the graph, we need to express it in the form y=mx+cy = mx + c, where:

  • mm is the slope (or gradient) of the line.
  • cc is the y-intercept (the value of yy when x=0x = 0).

Step 1: Identify the y-intercept

From the graph, the line crosses the y-axis at y=4y = 4. So, c=4c = 4.

Step 2: Find the slope (mm)

The slope mm is calculated using two points on the line. Let's pick two points:

  • (0,4)(0, 4) (where the line crosses the y-axis).
  • (2,0)(2, 0) (another point where the line crosses the x-axis).

The slope formula is: m=y2y1x2x1m = \frac{y_2 - y_1}{x_2 - x_1}

Substituting the values: m=0420=42=2m = \frac{0 - 4}{2 - 0} = \frac{-4}{2} = -2

Step 3: Write the equation

Now that we have both m=2m = -2 and c=4c = 4, the equation of the line is: y=2x+4y = -2x + 4

Would you like any further details or clarifications?

Here are 5 related questions you could explore:

  1. How would the equation change if the slope were positive?
  2. Can the equation be written in a different form, such as point-slope form?
  3. What is the significance of the y-intercept in real-world applications?
  4. How would the graph look if the y-intercept was negative?
  5. How do you find the slope when the line is horizontal?

Tip: When calculating the slope, always use two distinct points on the line for the most accurate result.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Linear Equations
Slope-Intercept Form
Algebra

Formulas

Slope formula: m = (y2 - y1) / (x2 - x1)
Equation of a line: y = mx + c

Theorems

Slope-Intercept Form Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10