The x-intercept of a line is the point at which the line crosses the x axis.
( i.e. where the y value equals 0 )
x-intercept = ( x, 0 )
The y-intercept of a line is the point at which the line crosses the y axis. ( i.e. where the x value equals 0 )
y-intercept = ( 0, y )
When the equation of a line is given in STANDARD FORM:
y = mx + b
so the easiest way to graph it is probably the DUAL-INTERCEPT METHOD.
Instead of having to solve for y in terms of x in order to find the slope and y-intercept, I think it is much easier to just find the x and y intercepts.
EXAMPLE :
2x + y = -2
SOLUTION:
If x = 0, then y = -2 That is the y - intercept
If y = 0, then 2x = -2,Divide both sides with 2 so x = -1 is the x - intercept
Graph points:
x = 0 , y = -2
and
x = -1 , y = 0
in a coordinate system and connect the dots.
what is a dual intercept method and how is it applied?
4 answers
Just FYI, if you draw a line through the two intercepts (0,k) and (h,0), then the equation is
(y-k)/(x-h) = -k/h
kx + hy = 2hk
(y-k)/(x-h) = -k/h
kx + hy = 2hk
Xy=2
the x value of the y-intercept=0