SUMMARY
The equation of a straight line passing through the points (1, 4) and (5, 1) is derived using the slope-intercept form, y = mx + c. The correct slope (m) is -3/4, calculated from the coordinates. To find the y-intercept (c), substitute one of the points into the equation, leading to the final equation y = (-3/4)x + 4. This method ensures accurate representation of the line in a Cartesian plane.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of slope-intercept form (y = mx + c)
- Ability to calculate slope between two points
- Basic algebra for substituting values into equations
- Familiarity with Cartesian coordinates
NEXT STEPS
- Practice calculating slopes between various pairs of points
- Explore the concept of y-intercepts in linear equations
- Learn how to graph linear equations on a Cartesian plane
- Study the implications of linear equations in real-world applications
USEFUL FOR
Students studying algebra, educators teaching linear equations, and anyone seeking to understand the fundamentals of graphing straight lines.