Math Problem Statement

Write the equation of the line that passes through the points left parenthesis, minus, 1, comma, minus, 7, right parenthesis(−1,−7) and left parenthesis, 1, comma, 7, right parenthesis(1,7). Put your answer in fully simplified point-slope form, unless it is a vertical or horizontal line.

Solution

Step 1: Find the slope of the line

The formula for the slope mm between two points (x1,y1)(x_1, y_1) and (x2,y2)(x_2, y_2) is:
m=y2y1x2x1m = \frac{y_2 - y_1}{x_2 - x_1}
For the given points (1,7)(-1, -7) and (1,7)(1, 7):
m=7(7)1(1)=7+71+1=142=7m = \frac{7 - (-7)}{1 - (-1)} = \frac{7 + 7}{1 + 1} = \frac{14}{2} = 7
Thus, the slope m=7m = 7.


Step 2: Write the equation in point-slope form

The point-slope form of a line is:
yy1=m(xx1)y - y_1 = m(x - x_1)
Using the slope m=7m = 7 and one of the points, say (1,7)(-1, -7):
y(7)=7(x(1))y - (-7) = 7(x - (-1))
Simplify:
y+7=7(x+1)y + 7 = 7(x + 1)


Step 3: Final equation in simplified point-slope form

y+7=7(x+1)y + 7 = 7(x + 1)

This is the equation of the line in point-slope form.


Do you have any questions or need further clarification?


Related Questions

  1. How do you convert a point-slope equation to slope-intercept form?
  2. What is the general form of a linear equation?
  3. How do you find the slope of a vertical or horizontal line?
  4. How do you check if a point lies on a given line?
  5. What is the distance between the two given points?

Tip: Always simplify your slope first before plugging it into the point-slope equation to avoid algebra mistakes!

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Coordinate Geometry
Linear Equations

Formulas

Slope formula: m = (y2 - y1) / (x2 - x1)
Point-slope form: y - y1 = m(x - x1)

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10