Chapter 2: Problem 42
Exer. \(41-44:\) Use the slope-intercept form to find the slope and \(y\) -intercept of the given line, and sketch its graph. $$7 x=-4 y-8$$
Short Answer
Expert verified
Slope is \(-\frac{7}{4}\) and the y-intercept is -2.
Step by step solution
01
Rearrange the Equation
To find the slope and the y-intercept, we need to write the given equation in the slope-intercept form, which is \(y = mx + b\). Start by rearranging the given equation \(7x = -4y - 8\). First, isolate \(y\) by adding \(4y\) to both sides to get \(7x + 4y = -8\). Next, we need to solve for \(y\).
02
Solve for y
Now solve the equation \(7x + 4y = -8\) for \(y\). Subtract \(7x\) from both sides to get \(4y = -7x - 8\). Then, divide every term by 4 to solve for \(y\): \(y = -\frac{7}{4}x - 2\). Now the equation is in slope-intercept form \(y = mx + b\), where \(m\) is the slope and \(b\) is the y-intercept.
03
Identify Slope and Y-intercept
From the slope-intercept form \(y = -\frac{7}{4}x - 2\), identify the slope \(m\) as \(-\frac{7}{4}\) and the y-intercept \(b\) as \(-2\) (0, -2). This tells us the line decreases since the slope is negative and passes through the y-axis at -2.
04
Sketch the Graph
To sketch the graph, begin at the y-intercept of -2 on the y-axis. From this point, use the slope \(-\frac{7}{4}\). This means for a run (rightward movement) of 4 units, the line will fall (downward movement) 7 units. Plot the second point accordingly and draw a line through these two points, extending in both directions.
Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!
-
Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
-
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
-
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
-
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.
Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91Ó°ÊÓ!
Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Graphing Linear Equations
Graphing linear equations involves plotting points on a graph that represents solutions of the equation. The primary goal is to create a straight line that visually represents all possible solutions. To begin, it's crucial to transform the equation into a more graphable form, typically the slope-intercept form:
- This form is expressed as \( y = mx + b \).
- The variable \( y \) represents the dependent variable, while \( x \) is the independent variable.
- Understanding this format allows us to easily identify the slope and y-intercept, making graphing straightforward.
Slope of a Line
The slope of a line, represented by \( m \) in the equation \( y = mx + b \), indicates the steepness and direction of the line. It reveals how much the dependent variable \( y \) changes for a unit change in \( x \). In our example equation, the slope is \(-\frac{7}{4}\). Here's what this means:
- A slope of \(-\frac{7}{4}\) tells us that for every 4 units moved horizontally (in the x-direction), the y-value decreases by 7 units.
- The negative sign indicates a downward trend as you move from left to right on the graph.
- The greater the magnitude of the slope, the steeper the line. Conversely, a slope near zero would make the line more horizontal.
Y-intercept
The y-intercept is the point where the line crosses the y-axis. This gives the value of y when \( x \) is zero and is represented by \( b \) in the slope-intercept form.
- In the given equation \( y = -\frac{7}{4}x - 2 \), the y-intercept is \(-2\).
- This implies that the line will pass through the point (0, -2) on the graph.
- The y-intercept is a crucial starting point for plotting the line, providing a fixed point from which to apply the slope.
Linear Equations
Linear equations form the foundation for understanding straight lines on a graph. These equations establish a linear relationship between variables and are generally characterized by their first-degree format. Such equations are vital in many fields, including physics, economics, and mathematics.
- They are defined by having a constant rate of change, which is reflected in the slope.
- The general form of linear equations is \( Ax + By = C \) (standard form) or \( y = mx + b \) (slope-intercept form).
- A linear equation typically results in a straight line when graphed, showcasing a consistent, predictable relationship between variables.