Unknown S.

asked • 07/15/17

How to know that

How to prove that the equation x/n + y/w = 1 is parallel to y= -w/n(x) if n>0 w>0 and n not equal w 

Arturo O.

From the problem statement, it is clear that n ≠ 0 and w ≠ 0.  But why must w > 0 and n > 0, and why must n ≠ w?  As long as both n and w ≠ 0, you get a valid slope, per Michael's solution.  They can both be either positive or negative, or even equal, and you still get the same slope for both lines, thus proving the lines are parallel.  This makes me believe the problem statement imposes unnecessary conditions, and hence is worded poorly.  
Report

07/15/17

1 Expert Answer

By:

Still looking for help? Get the right answer, fast.

Ask a question for free

Get a free answer to a quick problem.
Most questions answered within 4 hours.

OR

Find an Online Tutor Now

Choose an expert and meet online. No packages or subscriptions, pay only for the time you need.