I got intercept = (3, 0); y-intercept = (0, -4). Am I right?
The correct x-intercept and y-intercept of the graph of the equation 3x - 4y = -12.
2 Answers
You have an equation for a line, remember that:
the x intercept is where y = 0 and the y intercept is where x = 0
So set each one to zero in your equation and check your answer:
3x - 4y = -12
for the y intercept x = 0
-4y = -12
y = 3
so... (0,3) is your answer
for the x intercept y = 0
3x = -12
x = -4
and... (-4,0) is your answer
it looks like you've confused your answers.
Remember that if the line intercepts the x axis it's because the value of y at that point is zero.
And if the line intercepts the y axis its because the value of x at that point equals zero.
On the y axis, there is no value for x.
On the x axis there is no value for y.
When you get to 3D:
on the x axis there is no value for y and z
on the y axis there is no value for x and z
on the z axis there is no value for x and y
This would be much easier to demonstrate with a drawing but I have to operate within the constraints of the website. Anyways, I hope I helped you out.
Another way to find the intercepts is to begin by putting the equation into slope intercept form. (y = mx + b)
3x - 4y = -12
-3x -3x
-4y = -3x - 12
/-4 /-4 /-4
y = (3/4)x + 3
Now, you know that your slope is 3/4 and the y-intercept is 3, or (0,3). plot the point (0,3). plug 0 into the original equation for y to find the x intercept.
3x - 4y = -12
3x - 4(0) = -12
3x - 0 = -12
3x = -12
/3 /3
x = -4
x intercept is -4, or (-4,0)
Hope this helps!






