16Hit1600
AlgebraMediumSlope between two points, with a negative

Algebra practice question

In the xy-plane, a line passes through (1, 4) and (5, −2). What is the slope of the line?

  1. A. −3/2Correct
  2. B. 3/2
  3. C. −2/3
  4. D. −6

Answer: A. −3/2

Slope = (−2 − 4)/(5 − 1) = −6/4 = −3/2.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. 3/2
3/2 has the wrong sign; y falls as x rises.
C. −2/3
−2/3 is the reciprocal (run over rise).
D. −6
−6 is the rise alone, not divided by the run of 4.

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