1.12.1 Using the Slope Formula

Compare your answer:

$m=3$

First, name $(1,-2)$ as point 1 and $(3,4)$ as point 2.

$(x_1,y_1)$ and $(x_2,y_2)$

$(1,-2)$ and $(3,4)$

Use the slope formula.

$m=\frac{y_2-y_1}{x_2-x_1}$

Substitute the values: $y_2=4,y_1=-2,x_2=3,x_1=1$.

$m=\frac{4-(-2)}{3-(1)}$

Simplify.

$m=\frac{6}{2}$

$m=3$

Compare your answer:

$m=-\frac{7}{5}$

First, name $(-2,-3)$ as point 1 and $(-7,4)$ as point 2.

$(x_1,y_1)$ and $(x_2,y_2)$

$(-2,-3)$ and $(-7,4)$

Use the slope formula.

$m=\frac{y_2-y_1}{x_2-x_1}$

Substitute the values: $y_2=4,y_1=-3,x_2=-7,x_1=-2$.

$m=\frac{4-(-3)}{-7-(-2)}$

Simplify.

$m=\frac{7}{-5}$

$m=-\frac{7}{5}$