Question

Part 1: Write the equation of the line that passes through the points (–1, –4) and (2, 5) in point-slope form.

Part 2: Using complete sentences, explain whether or not it matters which point is used in the final answer. Also explain why you chose the point you did.

Answer 1

@texaschic101 last one

Answer 2

first we find the slope...
slope(m) = (y2 - y1) / (x2 - x1)
(-1,4) x1 = -1 and y1 = 4
(2,5) x2 = 2 and y2 = 5

time to sub...
m = (5 - 4) / (2 - (-1)
m = 1/(2 + 1)
m = 1/3

point slope form :
y - y1 = m(x - x1) using points (2,5)
y - 5 = 1/3(x - 2) <-- this is point slope equation
y - 5 = 1/3x - 2/3
y = 1/3x - 2/3 + 5
y = 1/3x - 2/3 + 15/3
y = 1/3x + 13/3

using points (-1,4)
y - y1 = m(x - x1)
y - 4 = 1/3(x - (-1) <-- this is point slope equation
y - 4 = 1/3x + 1/3
y = 1/3x + 1/3 + 4
y = 1/3x + 1/3 + 12/3
y = 1/3x + 13/3


It does not matter which points you use because as you can see, you end up with the same answer. I just prefer, if possible, to use the points that are positive. You may choose either points for any reason you choose.