SOLUTION: prove that an equation for a line with nonzero x- and y-intercepts can be written as x/a + y/b = 1

Algebra ->  Points-lines-and-rays -> SOLUTION: prove that an equation for a line with nonzero x- and y-intercepts can be written as x/a + y/b = 1      Log On


   

Question 351743: prove that an equation for a line with nonzero x- and y-intercepts can be written as x/a + y/b = 1
Answer by Fombitz(32388) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
x%2Fa+%2B+y%2Fb+=+1
To find the x-intercept, set y=0 and solve for x.
x%2Fa+%2B+y%2Fb+=+1
x%2Fa+%2B+0+=+1
x=a
(a,0) which is the x-intercept.
.
.
.
To find the y-intercept, set x=0 and solve for y.
x%2Fa+%2B+y%2Fb+=+1
0%2By%2Fb=1
y=b
(0,b) which is the y-intercept.