Math Problem Statement

What is the slope of the line that passes through the points (-4, 8) and (2, -4)?

Solution

To find the slope of the line, we will use the slope formula:

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

The two given points on the line are:

  • (4,8)(-4, 8)
  • (2,4)(2, -4)

Now let's plug these into the slope formula:

m=482(4)=482+4=126=2m = \frac{-4 - 8}{2 - (-4)} = \frac{-4 - 8}{2 + 4} = \frac{-12}{6} = -2

So, the slope of the line is m=2m = -2.

Would you like further details or explanations?

Here are 5 follow-up questions based on this:

  1. What does the slope of a line represent in general?
  2. How would the slope change if the line were horizontal?
  3. What is the significance of a negative slope?
  4. Can you identify the y-intercept of this line based on the graph?
  5. How would you calculate the slope if the points had been flipped?

Tip: The slope represents the rate of change between the two variables (rise over run).

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Coordinate Geometry
Slopes of Lines

Formulas

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

Theorems

Basic slope theorem, rise over run in Cartesian planes

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-9