Mathematics ACT Aspire Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

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In a linear equation, what does the variable 'm' represent?

The y-intercept

The slope

In the context of a linear equation, particularly in slope-intercept form expressed as \( y = mx + b \), the variable 'm' represents the slope of the line. The slope indicates how much the value of \( y \) changes for a unit change in \( x \). Specifically, it tells you the steepness and direction of the line.

A positive slope means that as \( x \) increases, \( y \) also increases, resulting in an upward slant of the line. Conversely, a negative slope indicates that as \( x \) increases, \( y \) decreases, creating a downward slant. A slope of zero would indicate a horizontal line, while an undefined slope (as seen in vertical lines) does not have a defined slope value.

Understanding the role of 'm' is crucial for graphing linear equations and interpreting their behavior. This concept forms the backbone of understanding linear relationships in algebra and is foundational for further studies in mathematics.

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The x-intercept

The constant term

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