Question

The equation of the line passing through the points (3, 16) and (5, 10) can be expressed as y = mx + b. Give the value of b

Answer 1

To find the equation in y=mx+b form, we need m and b.

The formula for slope, m :
`(y2-y1)/(x2-x1)`

where, (x1,y1) = (3,16)

and (x2,y2) = (5,10)

So,
`m=(10-16)/(5-3) =(-6)/(2)=-3`

Now, Let us plug, m=-3, and (x,y)=(3,16) in y=mx+b, to find the value of b

16=-3*3 +b

16=-9+b

Adding 9 on both sides

16+9=-9+9+b

25=b

So, the value of b=25