Chapter 2: Problem 33
Graph each equation using the intercept method. Label the intercepts on each graph. \(3 x+4 y=12\)
Short Answer
Expert verified
Graph the line through points (4, 0) and (0, 3) and label these intercepts.
Step by step solution
01
Find the x-intercept
To find the x-intercept of the equation, set \( y = 0 \) and solve for \( x \).\[3x + 4(0) = 12 \implies 3x = 12 \implies x = \frac{12}{3} = 4\]Hence, the x-intercept is \((4, 0)\).
02
Find the y-intercept
To find the y-intercept, set \( x = 0 \) and solve for \( y \).\[3(0) + 4y = 12 \implies 4y = 12 \implies y = \frac{12}{4} = 3\]Hence, the y-intercept is \((0, 3)\).
03
Plot the intercepts
On a graph, mark the points \((4, 0)\) and \((0, 3)\) as the x-intercept and y-intercept respectively.
04
Draw the line
Draw a straight line through the points \((4, 0)\) and \((0, 3)\). This line represents the graph of the equation \(3x + 4y = 12\). Make sure to extend the line to cover the entire quadrant.
05
Label the intercepts
On the graph, clearly label the points \((4, 0)\) and \((0, 3)\) as the x-intercept and y-intercept to complete the exercise.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Understanding the X-Intercept
The x-intercept of a linear equation is the point where the graph crosses the x-axis. This means that at this point, the y-coordinate is equal to zero. To find the x-intercept, we set y = 0 in the equation and solve for x. This step simplifies the equation by removing all terms involving y.
For example, in the equation \(3x + 4y = 12\), setting y = 0 gives \(3x = 12\). Solving this gives \(x = 4\). Therefore, the x-intercept is the point (4, 0).
For example, in the equation \(3x + 4y = 12\), setting y = 0 gives \(3x = 12\). Solving this gives \(x = 4\). Therefore, the x-intercept is the point (4, 0).
- Remember, the x-intercept is always of the form (x, 0).
- It's a crucial starting point to draw the graph accurately.
Understanding the Y-Intercept
The y-intercept is another key feature of a linear graph, representing the point where the line crosses the y-axis. At this location, the x-coordinate of the point is zero. To discover the y-intercept, we set x = 0 in the equation and solve for y.
In our equation \(3x + 4y = 12\), setting x = 0 simplifies it to \(4y = 12\). Solving for y gives \(y = 3\), and thus, the y-intercept is the point (0, 3).
In our equation \(3x + 4y = 12\), setting x = 0 simplifies it to \(4y = 12\). Solving for y gives \(y = 3\), and thus, the y-intercept is the point (0, 3).
- The y-intercept is always written in the form (0, y).
- This point is used alongside the x-intercept to graph the equation.
Graphing Linear Equations Using Intercepts
Graphing linear equations can be straightforward if you use the intercept method. This method involves finding both the x-intercept and y-intercept of the equation, plotting these intercepts on a graph, and then drawing a straight line through them.
For instance, with the equation \(3x + 4y = 12\), you first find the intercepts: (4, 0) for the x-intercept and (0, 3) for the y-intercept. You then plot these points on a graph.
Next, connect the intercepts with a straight line. Ensure the line extends across the entire grid for accuracy. This line graphically represents all possible solutions of the equation.
Here’s an easy checklist when graphing with intercepts:
For instance, with the equation \(3x + 4y = 12\), you first find the intercepts: (4, 0) for the x-intercept and (0, 3) for the y-intercept. You then plot these points on a graph.
Next, connect the intercepts with a straight line. Ensure the line extends across the entire grid for accuracy. This line graphically represents all possible solutions of the equation.
Here’s an easy checklist when graphing with intercepts:
- Find and plot the x-intercept.
- Find and plot the y-intercept.
- Draw a line through the intercepts.
- Extend and label the intercepts on the completed graph.