Math Problem Statement

Line b has slope −3 and passes through the point (4, 8). Find the y -intercept of line b .

Solution

We are given that the slope of line bb is m=3m = -3 and it passes through the point (4,8)(4, 8). To find the y-intercept (bb) of the line, we can use the point-slope form of the equation of a line:

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

Where:

  • mm is the slope
  • (x1,y1)(x_1, y_1) is a point on the line

Substituting the given values:

  • m=3m = -3
  • x1=4x_1 = 4, y1=8y_1 = 8

We get:

y8=3(x4)y - 8 = -3(x - 4)

Now, simplify the equation to find the y-intercept:

y8=3x+12y - 8 = -3x + 12

Add 8 to both sides:

y=3x+20y = -3x + 20

Thus, the y-intercept is b=20b = 20.

Summary:

The y-intercept of the line is 2020.

Would you like further explanation or have any questions? Here are some related questions you might find interesting:

  1. How do you derive the equation of a line from two points?
  2. What is the significance of the slope-intercept form of a linear equation?
  3. How can you find the equation of a line when given only the slope and one point?
  4. What does the slope of a line represent geometrically?
  5. How can you graph a line from its equation y=3x+20y = -3x + 20?

Tip: Always check if the slope is given or if you need to calculate it from two points. The slope-intercept form makes it easy to find the y-intercept once you have the slope and one point!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Linear Equations
Slope-Intercept Form
Point-Slope Form

Formulas

y - y1 = m(x - x1)
y = mx + b

Theorems

Point-Slope Form of a Line
Slope-Intercept Form of a Line

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-9