MHB Slope of y=-7 as x increases from 8 to infinity

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The discussion focuses on understanding the linear function represented by the equation y = mx + b, specifically with a slope of m = -7. As x increases by 1 unit, y decreases by 7 units, indicating a negative slope. The point (8, 3) is used to derive the function, leading to the conclusion that the slope m is indeed -7. The point-slope formula is also mentioned as a useful tool for solving linear equations. Overall, the conversation clarifies the relationship between the slope and the function's behavior as x approaches infinity.
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The function that passes through (8,3) and every time x increases by 1 unit, the fuction decreases by 7 units
 
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It's a linear function so it has the form $y=mx+b$. Can you find $m$ and $b$?
 
Is it stating that b is -7? I know y=mx+b but this question sounds so simple has me confused.
 
$m$ = $-7$. Do you see why $m=-7$? Can you solve it now?
 
Another formula for a line you may find useful here is the point-slope formula:

$$y=m\left(x-x_1\right)+y_1$$

where $\left(x_1,y_1\right)$ is a known point on the line and $m$ is the slope. :)
 
Thanks! Now I understand, def. noting both of your posts in my notepad :) This site is awesome!
 
Seemingly by some mathematical coincidence, a hexagon of sides 2,2,7,7, 11, and 11 can be inscribed in a circle of radius 7. The other day I saw a math problem on line, which they said came from a Polish Olympiad, where you compute the length x of the 3rd side which is the same as the radius, so that the sides of length 2,x, and 11 are inscribed on the arc of a semi-circle. The law of cosines applied twice gives the answer for x of exactly 7, but the arithmetic is so complex that the...
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