Question

A line passes through the points (-1, 4) and (2, -2). What is the equation of this line?

Write your answer in the form y=mx+b.

I don't get it please help!

Answer 1

y = -2x + 2

Explanation:

Slope: (-2-4)/(2--1) = -6/3 = -2

y - 4 = -2(x - -1)

y = -2x - 2 + 4

y = -2x + 2

Answer 2

y = -2x+2

Explanation:

First we find the slope

m = (y2-y1)/(x2-x1)

= (-2-4)/(2--1)

= (-2-4)/(2+1)

-6/3

-2

We have the slope =-2

We can substitute it into the equation

y = mx+b where m is the slope and b is the y intercept

y =-2x+b

Use a point for x and y to solve for b

4 = -2(-1) +b

4 = 2+b

Subtract 2 from each side

4 -2 = -2+2+b

2 = b

We know m and b

y = -2x+2