Calculus I

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Slope-intercept form

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Calculus I

Definition

Slope-intercept form is a way to express the equation of a straight line. It is written as $y = mx + b$, where $m$ represents the slope and $b$ represents the y-intercept.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The slope $m$ in the equation $y = mx + b$ measures the steepness of the line.
  2. The y-intercept $b$ is the point where the line crosses the y-axis.
  3. A positive slope indicates that the line ascends from left to right, while a negative slope indicates it descends.
  4. Slope-intercept form can be derived from two points on a line using formulas for slope and intercepts.
  5. The slope can also be calculated as $\frac{\Delta y}{\Delta x}$, which is the change in y divided by the change in x.

Review Questions

  • What does 'm' represent in the slope-intercept form equation?
  • If a line has an equation of $y = 2x + 3$, what are its slope and y-intercept?
  • How would you convert an equation like $2x - 3y = 6$ into slope-intercept form?
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