Find the Equation of a Line with Undefined Slope Passing Through (-1,4)

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SUMMARY

The equation of a line with an undefined slope passing through the point (-1, 4) is x = -1. This represents a vertical line that intersects the x-axis at -1 and extends infinitely in the y-direction. It is crucial to note that vertical lines do not qualify as functions since they assign multiple y-values to a single x-value. The misconception of using y = -1 instead of x = -1 highlights the importance of understanding the distinction between vertical and horizontal lines.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Cartesian coordinate systems
  • Knowledge of the concept of slope in linear equations
  • Familiarity with the definition of functions in mathematics
  • Ability to distinguish between vertical and horizontal lines
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  • Study the properties of vertical lines in coordinate geometry
  • Learn about the implications of undefined slopes in linear equations
  • Explore the concept of functions and their definitions in mathematics
  • Investigate how to graph vertical and horizontal lines accurately
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Students learning algebra, mathematics educators, and anyone seeking to understand the characteristics of lines in coordinate geometry.

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Question:

Determine the equation the line passing through (-1,4) with undefined(infinite) slope.

I put "y=-1"

This was because if it was constant there would be a undefined slope?

Altough, it was obviously wrong.

Help please?

[Wrong section if possible get moved to homework]
 
Last edited:
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If you draw this line on a coordinate system you will get a vertical line passing through all y values when x=-1.

So x=-1 regardless of the y value, therefore the equation is x=-1

Let's generalize:

The equation of a vertical line passing through (a,b) will be x=a

You should also note that a vertical line does not represent a function because a function must match no more than one y value for any given x value. A vertical line matches infinite y values for one x value so it is not a function.
 
I noticed i did a simple mistake of accidently thinking of y=-1, and x=-1, for some reason was thinking on the wrong axis.

Thanks for the help
 

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