What is the equation of the line that passes through the point (6,−8) and has a slope of −5/6??

Answer 1

Since point and slope are given, start with point-slope form

(y + 8) = (-5/6)(x - 6)

Answer 2

Start with the general form y = mx + b where m is the slope and b is the y intercept.

We are given that when x = 6, then y = -8 and m = -5/6

Put these 3 values into the formula.

y = m x + b

-8 = -5/6 (6) + b

Now solve for b.

-8 = -5 + b. Add 5 to both sides.

-3 = b

The write the formula leaving x and y alone but replacing the m and b with their values.

y = (-5/6) x - 3