Understanding Linear Equations | An Introduction to Mathematical Equations that Model Real-World Proportional Relationships

linear equation

A linear equation is a mathematical equation that represents a straight line on a graph

A linear equation is a mathematical equation that represents a straight line on a graph. It is an algebraic equation in which the highest exponent of the variable(s) is 1 and there are no other operations involved, such as multiplication or division by a variable.

A linear equation is typically written in the form:

y = mx + b

Where:
– “y” represents the dependent variable or the output
– “x” represents the independent variable or the input
– “m” represents the slope of the line, which indicates the rate of change of y with respect to x
– “b” represents the y-intercept, which is the value of y when x is equal to zero

The general goal when working with linear equations is to find the values of x and y that satisfy the equation. This can involve solving for x or y, graphing the equation to find where it intersects the x and y-axes, or using algebraic techniques such as substitution or elimination to find the values of the variables.

Linear equations are widely used in various fields of mathematics, science, and economics to model and solve real-world problems involving proportional relationships, such as calculating distances, determining growth rates, or predicting future values.

More Answers: