Math Problem Statement

Find the equation of this line using slope-intercept form.

Solution

To find the equation of the line in slope-intercept form y=mx+by = mx + b, where mm is the slope and bb is the y-intercept, let's break down the components from the image:

1. Slope (m):

The slope of the line can be calculated using the formula: m=riserunm = \frac{\text{rise}}{\text{run}} From the image, the line passes through two points: (-4, 0) and (0, -2).

  • Rise: The vertical change between the two points is from y=0y = 0 to y=2y = -2, giving a rise of -2.
  • Run: The horizontal change between the two points is from x=4x = -4 to x=0x = 0, giving a run of 4.

Thus, the slope m=24=12m = \frac{-2}{4} = -\frac{1}{2}.

2. Y-intercept (b):

The y-intercept bb is the point where the line crosses the y-axis. From the graph, the line crosses the y-axis at y=2y = -2, so b=2b = -2.

Final Equation:

Substituting m=12m = -\frac{1}{2} and b=2b = -2 into the slope-intercept form: y=12x2y = -\frac{1}{2}x - 2

Would you like more details on how to find the slope or intercept?

Here are five related questions:

  1. How do you calculate the slope if given two points?
  2. What does the y-intercept represent in the equation of a line?
  3. Can the slope of a line ever be zero or undefined?
  4. How does the slope affect the direction and steepness of a line?
  5. How can you find the equation of a line if given a point and the slope?

Tip: When identifying the slope on a graph, always check the vertical (rise) and horizontal (run) distances carefully to ensure correct sign and value!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Linear Equations
Slope-Intercept Form

Formulas

y = mx + b (Slope-Intercept Form)
m = (rise)/(run)

Theorems

Slope-Intercept Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-9