SOLUTION: I am supposed to graph and identify the y-intercept, but no matter how hard I try I keep getting it wrong. The equation is x + 3y = 6. I know that you have to add -x to both sides

Algebra ->  Graphs -> SOLUTION: I am supposed to graph and identify the y-intercept, but no matter how hard I try I keep getting it wrong. The equation is x + 3y = 6. I know that you have to add -x to both sides       Log On


   

Question 242219: I am supposed to graph and identify the y-intercept, but no matter how hard I try I keep getting it wrong. The equation is x + 3y = 6. I know that you have to add -x to both sides so 3y = -x + 6. The example I have says to divide by 3 and then shows y=-1/3x + 2. How did they get 1/3 if they are dividing by 3. (I know it is probably a dumb question but I am an idiot when it comes to math)If I can just figure where the fraction came from then maybe I can get the rest of it. Can someone please help?
Found 2 solutions by ankor@dixie-net.com, dpaulin:
Answer by ankor@dixie-net.com(22740) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
One thing to remember that when a variable like x is by itself, it is understood that the coefficient is 1. In this equation you would understand it as
3y = -1x + 6
Divide by 3
y = -1%2F3x + 6%2F3
which is
y = -1%2F3x + 2
:
:
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Answer by dpaulin(12) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
the fraction is there because x is actually 1x, we just do not show it.
the equation really is 1x+3y=6.
so leave the one there
3y = -1x + 6
y = -1/3x + 2
I hope that helps you see why a fraction is there.
Oh and dumb people do not ask questions. So your a smart one in my book.