How do I find the equation of a line connecting points a(p,q) and b(r,s)?

First we need to find the gradient of the line connecting points a and b:
gradient m = (change in y)/(change in x) = (q - s)/(p -r)

Now we use the following equation:

y - y1 = m(x - x1)

substituting suitable values for (x1, y1) (can be points a or b but we'll use point a this time) and m (calculated above):

Using point a:

y - q = [(q-s)/(p-r)](x - p)

and so the equation in the form y = f(x) is:
y = [(q-s)/(p-r)]x + (q-s)/(p-r) + q

CW
Answered by Chris W. Maths tutor

5421 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Solve the simultaneous equations: 3x + y =11; 2x + y = 8


Solve simultaneous equations: 3x + y = 12 and 5x + 5y = 30


Solve the equation (3x + 2)/(x - 1) + 3 = 4 (3 marks)


Solve the simultaneous equations 3x+2y=13 and 4x+y=14


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences