Question

Which of the following is the equation of the line that passes through (-1,3) and (-5,1)?

A. y = 2x - 7

B. y = 2x + 5

C. y = 1/2x - 5/2

D. y = 1/2x + 7/2

Answer 1

D. y = ½x + 7⁄2

Explanation:

First, find the rate of change [slope]:

-y₁ + y₂\-x₁ + x₂ = m

`(-3 + 1)/(1 - 5) = (-2)/(-4) = (1)/(2)`

Plug the coordinates into the Slope-Intercept Formula instead of the Point-Slope Formula since you get it done faster that way. It does not matter which ordered pair you choose:

1 = -½[5] + b

-2½

3½ = b

y = ½x + 7⁄2

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3 = ½[-1] + b

-½

3½ = b

y = ½x + 7⁄2

* You see? I told you it did not matter which ordered pair you choose because you will always get the exact same result.

I am joyous to assist you anytime.

** 3½ = 7⁄2