Write a slope-intercept equation for a line with the given characteristics:

Question

m = 2/3 passes through (-4,-5)

I got an answer but would like to compare to see what someone else gets. Thanks!

Answer 1

y=mx+b
put in x,y, and m, then solve for b.

Answer 2

I came up with 7 2/3 is this correct, and if so do i need to turn it into an improper fraction? Thanks

Answer 3

subbing into bob's equation...

-5 = (2/3)(-4) + b
-15 = -8 + 3b
b = -7/3

so your equation is
y = (2/3)x - 7/3

Answer 4

How can this be? I got -8/3 because I multiplyed 2/3 and -4..Is this correct?

Answer 5

I usually clear my fractions, in this case I multiplied each term by 3

ok, your way...
-5 = (2/3)(-4) + b
-5 = -8/3 + b
-5 + 8/3 = b
-15/3 + 8/3 = b
-7/3 = b

see how much more complicated it gets if you keep the fractions ?

Answer 6

Thank you, I see how complicated it is when keeping the fractions. It makes sense now, thanks!