If a line has an x-intercept at x = −6 and a y-intercept at y = −5, find its equation in the form y = mx + b.

Question

Need some help on how to do this problem. Any help is appreciated.

Answer 1

Hi Kayla,

x-intercept is the point where the line touches ( or crosses) the X axis. It is x=-6. So the point would be (-6,0)

y-intercept is the point where the line touches ( or crosses) the Y axis. It is y= -5. So the point would be (0,-5)

Use these two points on the line to calculate the slope

m= (y2-y1)/(x2-x1)

m= -5/6

Now you have the slope m and y-intercept, b, which was already given.

The equation of the line is

y= (-5/6)x -5

Hope this helps!