How do I find the equation of a secant line using two given points?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the equation of a secant line using two given points, specifically P[0,f(0)] and Q[3,f(3)]. Participants are exploring the necessary information and methods to derive the equation based on these points.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the definition of a secant line and its relationship to the two given points. There are attempts to apply the slope formula and questions about whether the provided information is sufficient for finding the equation.

Discussion Status

Some participants express uncertainty about their understanding and the steps needed to find the equation. There are indications of progress as one participant feels they have grasped the concept, while others continue to seek clarity on the process.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the implications of using function values f(0) and f(3) in their calculations, and there is a sense of confusion regarding the application of the slope formula in this context.

rocomath
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Wow, someone asked me this question and I'm stumped.

Find the equation of the secant line that contain P[0,f(0)] and Q[3,f(3)]

Am I given enough information to solve this?

m=\frac{f(x+h)-f(x)}{h}

...

m_1=\frac{f(h)-f(0)}{h}

m_2=\frac{f(3+h)-f(3)}{h}

That doesn't really help me though, unless I'm not thinking hard enough!
 
Last edited:
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Isn't a secant line just a straight line with those two points?

uhm...

m=\frac{f(3)-f(0)}{3-0}but the answer would be in terms of f(3) and f(0)
 
Last edited:
rock.freak667 said:
Isn't a secant line just a straight line with those two points?
Yeah and I'm given 2 points and I need to find an equation that contains both. Hmm.
 
Oh I think I got it now, haha. My brain finally kicked in.
 
rocophysics said:
Oh I think I got it now, haha. My brain finally kicked in.

What was it? Finding the equation of a line given two points? Or was my brain malfunctioning as well?
 
rock.freak667 said:
What was it? Finding the equation of a line given two points? Or was my brain malfunctioning as well?
Yeah, seems like the only thing to do.

m=\frac{f(3)-f(0)}{3}

y-f(0)=\frac{f(3)-f(0)}{3}(x-0)

Not sure what else to think of.
 
I would hope that is all there is to it.
 

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