|
The slope intercept form of the equation of a line is explored interactively using an applet. The investigation is carried out by changing parameters m and b in the equation of a line given by:
y = mx + b
Interactive Tutorials
-
click on the button above "click here to start" and MAXIMIZE the window obtained.
-
Set m to a fixed value (m = 1) and change b (b = 1, 2, 3, 4, -1, -2, -3, -4). Compare each value of b to the y-intercept of the line obtained.
-
Set b to a fixed value (b = 1) and change m (m = 1, 2, 3, 4, -1, -2, -3, -4). For each value of m, find two points on the line obtained and use them to calculate the slope of the line. Compare the slope of the line with m.
-
Change m and and explore further.
-
Set m = 0 and describe the line obtained.
-
Describe the geometrical significance of parameters m and b.
-
Find a formula (in terms of m and b) for the x intercept of a line whose equation is y = mx + b. Use different values for m and b to check the formula obtained. Can this formula be used when m = 0? Explain.
-
Exercises
-
Find, analytically, the slope , the x and y intercepts of the line whose equation is given by
y = -2x + 4
-
What is the slope and x intercept of the line whose equation is given by y = -3?
-
What is the y intercept of the line whose equation is given by y = -x?
- Use the applet to CHECK your answers to questions i, ii and iii.
More references on lines and slopes.
|
