Summary: Using Intercepts to Graph Lines
Key Concepts
- Intercepts
- The -intercept is the point, , where the graph crosses the -axis. The -intercept occurs when is zero.
- The -intercept is the point, , where the graph crosses the -axis. The -intercept occurs when is zero.
- Find the x and y intercepts from the equation of a line
- To find the -intercept of the line, let and solve for .
- To find the -intercept of the line, let and solve for .
- Graph a line using the intercepts
- Find the x- and y- intercepts of the line.
- Let and solve for .
- Let and solve for .
- Find a third solution to the equation.
- Plot the three points and then check that they line up.
- Draw the line.
- Find the x- and y- intercepts of the line.
- Choose the most convenient method to graph a line
- Determine if the equation has only one variable. Then it is a vertical or horizontal line.
- is a vertical line passing through the -axis at .
- is a vertical line passing through the -axis at .
- Determine if y is isolated on one side of the equation. Then graph by plotting points. Choose any three values for x and then solve for the corresponding y- values.
- Determine if the equation is of the form , find the intercepts. Find the x- and y- intercepts and then a third point.
Glossary
- intercepts of a line
- Each of the points at which a line crosses the -axis or the -axis is called an intercept of the line.
Contribute!
Did you have an idea for improving this content? We’d love your input.