## College Algebra (10th Edition)

Published by Pearson

# Chapter 2 - Section 2.3 - Lines - 2.3 Assess Your Understanding - Page 178: 15

#### Answer

$m=-\dfrac{1}{3}$ For every 1 unit increase in the value of $x$, the value of $y$ decreases by $\frac{1}{3}$ unit.

#### Work Step by Step

RECALL: (1) The slope $m$ of a line can be found using the formula $m=\dfrac{y_2-y_1}{x_2-x_1}$ where $(x_1, y_1)$ and $(x_2, y_2)$ are points on the line. (2) The slope can also be described as the $\dfrac{\text{rise}}{\text{run}}$, which can be interpreted as the average increase in $y$ for every unit increase in $x$. (3) A line with a positive slope slants upward from left to right while a line with a negative slants downward from left to right. Using the two given points on the line, solving for $m$ gives: $m=\dfrac{2-1}{-2-1}=\dfrac{1}{-3}=-\dfrac{1}{3}$ For every 1 unit increase in the value of $x$, the value of $y$ decreases by $\frac{1}{3}$ unit.

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.