Question

The graph represents the cost of a taxi ride, y, dependent upon the number of miles driven, x. Write an equation in slope-intercept form. What values are needed to complete the equation?

(0, 3) (1, 5.5) (2, 8) (3, 10.5) (4, 13)

Answer 1

We need the slope (rate per mile) and the y-intercept (base fare). From the points:

- y-intercept b = 3 (from (0,3))
- slope m = (5.5 − 3)/(1 − 0) = 2.5 = 5/2

So the equation is y = 2.5x + 3 (or y = (5/2)x + 3).