Easy Algebra Step-by-Step

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17 Graphing Linear Equations

In this chapter, you learn about graphing linear equations.

Properties of a Line

The graph of a linear equation is a straight line or simply a line. The line

is the simplest graph of algebra but is probably the most referenced graph

because it applies to many situations. Moreover, it has some unique proper-

ties that are exploited to great advantage in the study of mathematics. Here

are two important properties of a line.

Two Important Properties of a Line

1. A line is completely determined by two distinct points.


2. Every nonvertical line has a unique number associated with it called
   the slope.

See Chapter 16 for an additional discussion of slope.

Graphing a Linear Equation That Is in Standard Form

The standard form of the equation of a line is Ax+=ByBy C. For graphing

purposes, the slope-y-intercept formymmmmmxbx is the most useful. You use

simple algebraic steps to put an equation of a line in this form.

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