How do I meaS'vre tt,e Am I paS't tt,e

How far iS' it S"teepneS'S' of tt,e S"lope? midpoint yet?

vp tt,iS' t,iJJ? 0 0 0
Oo f?/
0 )'
e
> 7
I 6
/;
f

5
4
3
2
1 You are here.

- 3 -2 - 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 x
-1

Contents
9:01 The distance between two points 9:05 The gradient-intercept form of a straight line:
9:02 The midpoint of an interval y=mx+b
9:03 The gradient of an interval Investigation 9:05 What does y = mx + b tell us?
GeoGebra activity 9:03 The midpoint, gradient GeoGebra activity 9:05 Equations of a line
and length of an interval 9:06 The equation of a straight line, given point and
Investigation 9:03 Gradients and building gradient
9:04 Graphing straight lines 9:07 The equation of a straight line given two points
GeoGebra activity 9:04 Graphing lines using Fun spot 9:07 Why did the banana go out with
two points a fig?
Fun spot 9:04 What is the easiest job in a 9:08 Non-linear graphs
watch factory? GeoGebra activity 9:08 Non-linear graphs
Maths terms, Diagnostic test, Assignments

Syllabus references (See pages x-xv for details.)

Number and Algebra
Selections from Linear Relationships [Stages 5.1 , 5.2]
• Find th e midpoint and gradient of a line segm ent (interval) on the Cartesian plane using a range of strategies,
in cluding graphing software (AC M N A294)
• Find th e distance b etween two points located on the Cartesian plane using a range of strategies, including graphing
software (ACMN A21 4)
• Sketch linear graphs using the coordinates of two points (AC MNA215)
• Interpret and graph linear relationships using the gradient-intercept form of the equation of a straight line (NSW)
• Solve problems using various standard forms of tl1e equation of a straight line (NSW)
Selections from Non-linear Relationships [Stages 5.1 , 5.2°]
• Graph simple non- linear relations, with and without the use of digital technologies (AC MNA296)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Working Mathematically
• Communicating • Problem Solving • R easoning • U nderstanding • Fluency
Coordinate geometry is a powerful mathematical technique that allows algebraic methods to be
used in the solution of geometrical problems.

In this chapter we will look at the basic ideas of:

• the distance between two points or the length of an interval
• the midpoint of an interval
• gradient (or slope) of an interval or line
• the relationship between a straight line and its equation.
We will then see how these can be used to solve problems .

To calculate the distance between two points on a number plane, form a right-angled triangle and
apply Pythagoras' theorem. This is shown in the following examples.

WORKED EXAMPLES
1 Find the distance between the 2 If A is (-2, 2) and Bis (4, 5)
points (1, 2) and (4, 6). find the length of AB.

Solutions
1 .
y 2 -
y mi> a >vrd.
7 7
A(4, 6) It is- ttie
6 6 A(4, 5)
I
I
exact lel)9tti _
5 I 5 I
I
of A8.
4 4: 4
I
:3
3 1-- ,_ I

3 ' I B(-2, 2) · ' 00

2 ______ [] C(4 2) ---2-- ------ --[J
B(1, ·2) ' 6 C(4, 2)
1 1

-1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7x -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 4 5 x
-11--'----+ - -1

c2 = a2 + b2 c2 = a2 + b2
2 2 2 2 2 2
AB = AC + BC AB = AC + BC
= 42 + 32 = 32 + 62
= 16 + 9 = 9 + 36
= 25 = 45
:. AB=J25 :. AB=J45°
.·. the length of AB is 5 units. .·. the length of AB is J45 unit .

9 Coordinate geometry
 By drawing a right-angled triangle, we can use Pythagoras' theorem to find the distance
between any two points on the number plane.
y y
y
B B B
r.__
I I
BC ____

A A. c:
l J

x x V"
x
AC

c2 = a2 + b2
2 2 2
AB = AC + BC

Distance formula
A formula for finding the distance between two points, A(x1 , y1)
and B(x2 , y2), can be found using Pythagoras' theorem. We wish to I
I
find the length of interval AB. I
I
Y2 - Y1 I
I

LM= x 2 x1 I
Now - (LM= MO- LO) Y1 §_____ ________ .rj C
, A(x1 , 111) :
(ACML is a rectangle) I
I
I
I
I
I
I I
I I
1 1

and RS = y2 - y1 (RS = RO - SO) 0 L M

:. BC= Y2 - Y1 (BCSR is a rectangle)

2 2 2
Now AB = AC + BC (Pythagoras' theorem)
2 2
= (x2 - x1) + (Y2 - Y1)

:. AB = (x2 - x1)2 + (Y2 - Y1)2

The distance AB between A(x1 , y1) and B(x2 , y2) is given by:
2 2
d = \ (x2 - x1) + (Y2 - Y1) You can call
If A is renamed (x2 , y2) and Bis renamed (x 1, y1) the formula becomes: either of the
points (x1, y 1)
2 2
d = \ (x1 - x2) + (Y1 - Y2) \

Using either for1nula will give the same result.

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

 WORKED EXAMPLES
1 Find the distance between the points 2 Find the distance between the points
(3, 8) and (5, 4) . (-2, 0) and (8, -5)

Solutions
1 Distance=

. d= 2 2 2 2
• • (5 - 3) + (4 - 8) :. d= (8--2) +(-5-0)
2 2
= (2)2 + (-4 )2 = (10) + (-5)
= =
=)20 = 125
:. Distance= 4·47 (2 dee. pl.) :. Distance = 11·18 (2 dee. pl.)

• If the coordinates are reversed, the formula still gives the same answer. Hence, in Worked
Example 1, if we make (x1 , y1) = (5, 4) and (x2 , y2) = (3, 8), we would produce the same answer.

II - - - - - - - - - --

Exercise:9:0·1. Foundation worksheet 9:01

. . Distance between points

Use Pythagoras' theorem to find the length of each of the following.

(Leave your answer as a surd, where necessary.)
a Y B(7, '9)
b y c y
9 4 5
B(4, 3)
8 r
I
3 B(-3, 3) 4
7
I
I 2 I
I
3
I l

6 I
I
- 1 I 2: A(2, 1)
'5
5
a:
I
I

-1 0 1 3 11- 5 X
eP----s4-
4 I
-1 I
I
I -4 -3 -2-10 1 2 3 x
3 I -2 -- -1
I
A(1, -2)
2 : -3 -2
1 -- - - - - - _?_ - - - - -
A(1, 1)
-r1C( , 1)
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Bx

Find the lengths BC and AC and use these to find the lengths of AB.
(Leave your answers in surd form.)
a Y B(5, 4) b y c y
4 4 1
B(-2, 3)
3 3 -4 -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 x
2 lI 2 -1
•

l lA(2,-1)
1 -·--'I lI
j
I - ..,/--- -3 t
-1 0 1 2 3 4 5 x -3 12 -1 0
1
1 2 3 x
-1 -1
j
---------4- ---4
l B(- 4, - 4) _ C
I .:......2 5

0
P --=3 A(2, 1 -3)

9 Coordinate geometry
El Use Pythagoras' theorem to find the length of interval AB in each of the following.
(Leave answers in surd form.)
a y b y c y
A(3, 6)
6 5 A(4, 5) 5
5 4 4
A(5, 3)
4 3 3
3 2 2
B(-2, 1
2 1 1
B(1, 2)
1
-1 0 5 x -2 -1 0 1 2 3 4 5 x
-1 -1
-1 0 1 2 3 4 5 x
-1 -2 B(1, -2) -2

d y e y f y
5 5 3
A(1, 3)
A(-2, 3) 4 2
A(B, 1):..-
3 1

0 1 5 6 7 x
-1
B(3, 1) B(2, -1)
-2
-2 -1 0 1 2 3 4 x -1 0 1 2 x
-1 -1 -3
-2
B(-3, -2)

B Use the formula (x 2 -

2
x 1 ) + (11 2 -
2
y1 ) to find the distance between the points:
a (4, 2) and (7, 6) b (0, 1) and (8, 7) c (-6, 4) and (-2, 1)
d (-2, -4) and (4, 4) e (-6, 2) and (6, 7) f (4, 9) and (-1, -3)
g (3, 0) and (5, -4) h (8, 2) and (7, 0) i (6, -1) and (-2, 4)
j (-3, 2) and (-7, 3) k (6, 2) and (1, 1) l (4, 4) and (3, 3)
II a Find the distance from the point (4, 2) to the origin.
Makin9 a s-ketcti
b Which of the points (-1, 2) or (3, 5) is closer to the point (3, 0)? wiJI Jielp.
c Find the distance from the point (-2, 4) to the point (3, -5).
d Which of the points (7, 2) or (-4, -4) is further from (0, O)?

D a The vertices of a triangle are A(O, 0), B(3, 4) and C(-4, 5).
Find the length of each side.
b ABCD is a parallelogram where A is the point (2, 3), Bis (5, 5),
C is (4, 3) and Dis (1, 1). Show that the opposite sides of the
parallelograni. are equal.
c Find the length of the two diagonals of the parallelogram in part b.
d EFGH is a quadrilateral, where Eis the point (0, 1), Fis (3, 2), G is (2, -1) and
His (-1, -2). Prove that EFGH is a rhombus. (The sides of a rhombus are equal.)
e (3, 2) is the centre of a circle. (6, 6) is a point on the circuni.ference. What is the radius
of the circle?
f Prove that the triangle ABCis isosceles ifA is (-2,-1),Bis (4, 1) and Cis (2,-5).
(Isosceles triangles have two sides equal.)
g A is the point (-13, 7) and Bis (11, -3). Mis half-way between A and B. How far is
Mfrom B?

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

 • •

PREP QUIZ 9:02

4+10 ==? -2+4
1 • 2 == ?
2 2
3 What is the average of 4 and 10? 4 What is the average of -2 and 4?
5 What number is half-way between 6 What number is half-way between
4 and 10? -2 and 4?
•'I I . I I I I I . I 1., •'I . I I I I I O I I I ..

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 x -4 -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 x

7 What number is half-way 1, 8 What nu1nber is half-way y

between 1 and 5? 6 between -1 and 3? 4
5 3
4 2
3 1
2 0
1 -1
0 -2

1+5 -1+3
9 ==? 10 ==?
2 2

• The midpoint of an interval y

is the half-way position. 8 B(10, 7) If M i> the midpoint
7 ----- - - - -- - - ---- - --- - - - - --- -- - - ---
If M is the midpoint of I of AB then AM= MB.
6 I
I
AB then it is half-way
: q) l
I

0
between A and B. I
I
3 - - - ---- ---._.- -- ------- .
: A(4, 3) :
2 j
I
I
j
I

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 x

Consider the x-coordinates.

7 is half-way The average of 4+10

between 4 and 10.
• 4 and 10 is 7. • 2
== 7 • p==
X1 +x2
2

Consider the y-coordinates.

5 is half-way The average of 3+7 Y1 + Y2

between 3 and 7. • 3 and 7 is 5. • 2
== 5 • q ==
2

Hence, Mis the point (7, 5).

9 Coordinate geometry
 Midpoint formula
Y1 + Yz
11 == J
The midpoint M of AB, where A is (x1 , y 1) and 2 2
B is (x2 , y2), is given by:
Covld yov pleas-e
M== s-ay t'1at in En9lis-'1J
Mis-s-?
M(p, q)

,
0 "'
\

WORKED EXAMPLES
1 Find the midpoint of the interval joining 2 Find the midpoint of interval AB, if A is
(2, 6) and (8, 10). the point (-3, 5) and Bis (4, -2).

Solutions

1 Midpoint == 2 Midpoint ==

--
2+8 6+10
2 ' 2
== (5, 8)

D Use the graph to find the midpoint of each interval.

a y b y c y
5 2 3
(1, 4) (-3, 1) (4, 2)
4 1 2
3 1
1 2 3 x
2
(5, ·2) -42 -1 2 3 4 x
1 -1
1 2 3 4 5 x 2
(-1, -2)_ ,_
-1

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

lfl Use the graph to find the midpoints of the intervals: H )' c
a AB b CD c CH
d BF e LM f PQ 6
g RS h TU i VW u
B

-1--2
T

-6 -4 -2 0 4 6 x

1 -2 F
G - Q
E•
-4
L T R• s
-6 w

IJ Find the midpoint of each interval AB if:

a A is (2, 4), Bis (6, 10) b A is (1, 8), Bis (5, 6) c A is (4, 1) , B is (8, 7)
d A is (0, 0) , B is (-4, 2) e A is (-1, 0) , B is (5, 4) f A is (-2, -6) , B is (4, 2)
g A is (-8, -6), Bis (0, -10) h A is (-2, 4), Bis (-4, -6) i A is (-2, -4), Bis (-6, -7)

B Find the midpoint of the interval joining:

a (-3, -3) and (2, -3) b (8, -1) and (7, -1) c (5, 5) and (5, -5)
d (6, -7) and (-7, 6) e (0, -4) and (-4, 0) f (6, -6) and (5, -5)
g (111, 98) and (63, 42) h (68, -23) and (72, -29) i (400, 52) and (124, 100)

l:J a i Find the midpoint of AC.

ii Find the midpoint of BD. B(4, 3)
iii Are the answers for i and ii the same?
iv What property of a rectangle does this result demonstrate?
c 4, 1)
0 1 2 3 4 5 x

b If (4, 6) and (2, 10) are points at opposite ends of a diameter y

C(7, 7
of a circle, what are the coordinates of the centre? 7
6
c i Find the midpoint of AC. B(3, 5)
5
ii Find the midpoint of BD. 4
iii Are the answers for i and ii the same? 3
iv What property of a parallelogram does this result demonstrate? 2
1 D(5, 1)

0 1 .,.,.- 5 6 7 x
-1
A(1,-1)

9 Coordinate geometry
II a If the midpoint of (3, k) and (13, 6) is (8, 3), find the value of k.
b The midpoint of AB is (7, -3). Find the value of d and e if A is the point (d, 0) and
Bis (-1, e).
c The midpoint of AB is (-6, 2). If A is the point (4, 4), what are the coordinates of B?
d A circle with centre (3, 4) has a diani.eter of AB. If A is the point (-1, 6) what are the
coordinates of B?
lfl a If A is the point (1, 4) and Bis the point (15, 10),
B
E
what are the coordinates of the points C, D and E?
D
b If A is the point (1, 4) and Dis the point (15, 10),
what are the coordinates of the points B, C and E? A
EJ a Use coordinate geometry to show that the points A(-12, 10), B(8, 0), C(4, -6) and
D(-16, 4) form a parallelogram.
b Use coordinate geometry to show that the points (-3, 2), (5, -2), (4, -4) and (-4, 0) form
a rectangle.

PREP QUIZ 9:03

y
6 F (15, 6)
5 D
4
3 B (10, 4)
2
1
A (4, 2)
c E
(17' 1)
(1 ' 1) (7' 1) (13, 1)
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 x

1 Which is steepest, AB or BF?

If I travel from left to right, between which two points am I travelling upwards:
2 for the first time 3 for the second time 4 for the last time?
If I travel from left to right, between which two points a1n I travelling downwards:
5 for the first time 6 for the second time 7 for the last time?
Is the hill sloping up, down, or not at all, at these points?
8 A 9 G 10 F

The gradient or slope of an interval (or line) is a measure of how steep it is.

Negative gradient Steep (positive gradient) Steeper

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

If we move from left to right:
• an interval going down is said to have a negative •
nse
gradient (or slope) Gradient == - -
run
• an interval going up is said to have a positive
change in y
gradient (or slope)
• a horizontal interval (not going up or down) change in x
has zero gradient.

We find the gradient of an interval by comparing its rise y

(change in y) with its run (change in x). 2

• So, a gradient of means that for every run

1
of 2 there is a rise of 1 (or for every 2 you go 2
2
across, you go up 1).
-2 1 2 3 4 x
1
- --- - - - 1-
2
Finding the gradient of a line
1 Select any two points on the line.
2 Join the points and form a right-angled triangle by drawing I
I

a vertical line from the higher point and a horizontal side I

I
I '

from the lower point. : rise

I
I

3 Find the change in the y-coordinates (rise) and the change ______ [j
I

in the x-coordinates (run). run

4 Use the formula above to find the gradient.

WORKED EXAMPLES
Use the points A and B to find the gradient of the interval AB in each case.
1 y 2 y 3 y
A(1, 6}
6 6 6
B(4, 5)
5 5
4 4
B(5, 3)
3 3 5
4 A(2, 2) 1
2 -e-:::::;.__----1__J 2
3
1 '"'--'--_.. B(3, 1)
2
0 1 2 3 4 5 x: 0 1 2 3 4 5 x 0 12345 x
-1 -1 -1

Solutions
change in y change in y
1 Gradient 2 m= 3 m=
change in x change in x
change in y
-- up 1 down 5
change in x -
across 3 across 2
up 4
-- 1
-- - -5
across 2
3 2
--
4
-- -2.12
2 m is used for 'gradient'
=2

9 Coordinate geometry
Gradient formula
We wish to find a formula for the gradient of a line AB where A is (x 1 , y 1) and Bis (x 2 , y2) .
•
nse
Gradient of AB = -
y run
change in y
-
change in x
BC
--
AC
0 x
2
:. m = Y - Yi (opposite sides of a rectangle are equal)
X2 -x1

The gradient of the line that passes through the points A(x 1 , y1) and B(x2 , y2) is
given by the formula:
Y2 -y1 y1 -y2
m= (Note: The formula m = can also be used.)
X1 -x2

WORKED EXAMPLES
Find the gradient of the straight line passing through the following points.
1 (1, 3) and (4, 7) 2 (6, - 2) and (2, -1) It does-n't matter
w"1ic"1 point is-
Solutions c a JJed (x1, y1) .
1 Let (x 1 ,y1) be (1,3) 2 Let (x 1 , y1) be (6, -2)
and (x 2 , y2) b e (4, 7). and (x2 ,y2 ) be (2,-1) .
Gradient = y2 - Yi m = Y2 -y1
X2 -x1 X 2 - xl

7-3 -1-(-2)
- ----
-
4-1 2-6
11i ll t ' l
-4
3
- 1
-4 , - ' ,.
..

.·. The gradient is 1 !. . - 1.

·. . The gra d.1ent 1s
4

Architectural design often requires an

understanding of gradients (slopes).

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

 State whether each interval or line below has a positive or negative gradient.
a y b y c y

x
x x

d y e y f y

x x x

Find the gradient of the interval AB.

a y b }' A(2, 6)
c y
6 B(3, 6) -6 1--1--- 1
6
5 5 5 13(5, 4)
4 4 4
5 5 1
3 3
A(O, 3) 5
2 2
A(2, 1 B(3, 1)
1 1 1 1---'-9 1
1
-10 1 2 3 4 5 x 1 2 3 4 5 x -10 1 2 3' 4 5 x '

EJ Find the gradient of the interval AB.

a y
6)._
b A(-2, 2) y c y
6 2 1 A(1, O)
5
4 I
-3 _:2 -
,

i:l(1,4) 1. 2 3 x
3 -
B(-3, '- 2}_
2 3
1 -3 B(1, -4) -4
-5
-1 1 2 3 4 5 x

B Use the points C and D to find the slope of the line.

a y b y c y
6 6 6
5 5 5
c 4
3 c3
2 2
1 1 1

-1 0 1 2 3 4 5 x -1 0 1 2 5 x -1 0 1 2 3 4 5 x

9 Coordinate geometry
II Use the formula m == Y 2
- Yt to find the gradient of the straight line passing through the
. X2 - X1
points:
a (2, 6) and (5, 7) b (4, 2) and (5, 6) If a line Jia> no
c (3, 1) and (7, 3) d (0, 0) and (5, 2) >lopeJ m = 0.
e (0, 5) and (6, 6) f (3, 0) and (5, 6)
g (-3, -2) and (0, 6) h (4, - 1) and (3, 3)
i (2, 3) and (-4, 9) j (-4, 1) and (-2, -4)
k (5, 2) and (7, -6) l (-3, -1) and (-6, -7)

II a Find the gradient of the line that passes through y

A(3, 1) and B(5, 11). 5
4
b Find the slope of the line that passes through A(O, 3)
3
0(0, 0) and B(-1, -2). B(2, 2)
2
C(4, 1)
c On the graph shown, all of the points A, B, C and D 1
D(6, 0)
lie on the same straight line, x + 2y == 6. -1 o 1 2 3 4
Find the gradient of the line using the points:
i A and B ii C and D iii A and D iv Band C
Conclusion: Any two points on a straight line can be used to find the gradient of that line.
A straight line has only one gradient.
d Use the gradient of an interval to show that the points (-2, 5), (2, 13) and (6, 21) are
collinear (lie on the same straight line).

Ill a Calculate the gradients of the four lines shown on the right. A
b Which lines have the same gradients?
c Which lines are parallel? 4

II a On the same number plane, draw:

2
i line through (0, 0) with a gradient of -2 j
1
ii a line through (1, 1) which is parallel to the line in i. D

b Do the lines in i and ii have the same gradient? -1 1 2 3 4 5

If two lines have the same gradient they are parallel.

D a i Find the gradient of BC and of AD. y

ii Find the gradient of AB and of DC. B(3, 7;_
) _ _ _ _ _c/ (7, 8)

iii What kind of quadrilateral is ABCD?

Give a reason for your answer.
b Prove that a quadrilateral that has vertices
A(2, 3), B(9, 5), C(4, 0) and D(-3, -2) is a D(5, 3)
A(1, 2)
parallelogram. (It will be necessary to prove
that opposite sides are parallel.) x

mJ Use the fact that a rhombus is a parallelogra1n with a pair of adjacent sides equal to prove that the
points A(-1, 1), B(11, 4), C(8, -8) and D(-4, -11) form the vertices of a rho1nbus.

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

II GEOGEBRA ACTIVITY 9:03 THE MIDPOINT, GRADIENT AND LENGTH OF
AN INTERVAL
In this activity you can click and drag points to change J

(- 2. 5)
5
the length and gradient of an interval. Calculate the
midpoint, gradient and length of the interval, and then
tick the checkbox to see the solution.

1
3
0
-2 -1 0 11 2 4
3 I 3 1)
-1

INVESTIGATION 9:03 GRADIENTS AND BUILDING

• Engineers, architects and builders need to
understand and calculate gradients when
designing and constructing ramps, driveways
and roads.
• They usually refer to a gradient in ratio form.
e.g. A driveway can have a maximum gradient
of 1 in 4 (1: 4). This means a run of 4
units will produce a rise (or fall) of 1 unit.
We would say the gradient is t.
1 The graph below shows three slopes. Which of the slopes A, B or C is:
a 1 in 4 b 1 in 6 c 1 in 12?
-3

Slope C
2
Slope B
I
I
Slope A T 1

'
I I . I I I I

0 2 4 6 8 10 12

2 A slope is to be 1 in 4 (1: 4). What would the run have to be if the rise is:
a 2m b 1·4m c 3·2m?

3 Use the graph above (or ratio) to find the rise for a:
a 1 in 6 slope, if the run is 9 m b 1 in 12 slope, if the run is 6 m.
4 A builder has to construct a wheelchair ramp from the front of the house to the front of the
property, a run of 10 m. He calculates the fall to be O· 8 m. Building regulations state that the
maximum gradient of a ramp is 1 in 14. Is it possible for the builder to build a straight ramp?
If not, how can he build it and satisfy the regulations?

9 Coordinate geometry
 • • •

A straight line is made up of a set of points, each with its own pair of coordinates.
• An equation can be used to describe the relationship between the x- and y-coordinates of any
point on the line. In the graph below, the sum of the coordinates at each point is 3, so the
equation of the line is x + y = 3.
•A point can only lie on a line if its coordinates satisfy the equation of the line. For the points
(-3, 2) and (2, 3), it is clear that the sum of the coordinates is not equal to 3. So they do not lie
on the line.
y
5
T lie x and y in tlie
(-2, 5)
equation are tlie
(-1, 4) 4
(0, 3) point'> coordinates-.
• (2, 3) IJlltllll"""

(-3, -2)•

I I •
-4 -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 4 5 x
-1 (4, -1)
-2 (5, -2)
-3
-4

To graph a straight line we need:

• an equation to allow us to calculate the x- and y-coordinates for each point on the line
• a table to store at least two sets of coordinates
• a nun1.ber plane on which to plot the points.
y
Two important points on a line are:
• the x-intercept (where the line crosses the x-axis)
This is found by substituting y = 0 into the line's x

equation and then solving for x.

" " )'-intercept
• the y-intercept (where the line crosses the y-axis)
This is found by substituting x = 0 into the line's equation and then solving for y.
Because they are easily found the x- and y-intercepts are comn1-only used to graph a line.

Horizontal and vertical lines

The line on the right is vertical. y
3
• The following table of values shows the points marked on the line. x =2
2
1
x 2 2 2 2 2 2
-3 -2-1 0 1 3 x
1-1
y -2 -1 0 1 2 3
-2
• There seems to be no connection between x and y. -3

However, x is always 2. So the equation is x = 2.

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

 Vertical lines have equations
TJ,,ey cvt
of the form x = a, where a is This line is
y t/,,e x-axis-
This line is x = 3.
the x-intercept. 3
x = -1.---..i 2 ,. I at -1 and) ........
1

- 3 -2- 0 1 2 x
-1
-2
-3

The line on the right is horizontal. -

y
3
• The following table of values shows the points marked on the line.
1
x -2 -1 0 1 2 3
-3 -2 - 1 0 1 2 3 x
-1 t-- +
y 2 2 2 2 2 2
-2
• There seems to be no connection between x and y. -3

However, y is always 2. So the equation is y = 2.

Horizontal lines have equations

of the form y = b, where b is TJ,,ey cvttJ,,e y-axiS"
This line is
y = 1. at-) and 1.
the y-intercept. 2 II
II

-3 - 2-1 0 1 2 3 x
-1
-2
..
This line is
y = -3.

WORKED EXAMPLES
Draw the graph of each straight line. In Question 3 calculate the x- and y-intercepts.
1 x + y =5 2 y = 3x - 2 3 4x + y = 2

Solutions
1 x+y=5 2 y = 3x - 2 3 4x + y = 2

x 0 1 2 x 0 1 2 x 0 -21

y 5 4 -3 y -2 1 4 y 2 0

9 Coordinate geometry
When x = 0, When x = 0, When x = 0,
O+y=5 y=3X0-2 4xO+y=2
:. y = 5 =-2 O+y=2
:. y = 2
When x = 1, When x = 1, When y = 0,
1+11=5 y=3X1-2 4x+0=2
:. y = 4 :. y = 1 4x= 2
X -- 1.
2

When x = 2, When x = 2, :. x-intercept = !

2+y=5 y=3X2-2 : . y-intercept = 2
:. y = 3 :. y = 4
y
5
y y 11-intercept is 2
5 5
3
4 4
2 .....-
3 11+x=5 3 4x + )' = 2
2 . 1
-2 - -y = 3x - 2,
1 . 1 1---9 -2 -1 ' 2 3 4 x
-1
-2 -1 1 2 3 4 6x -2-1 '1 2 3 4 x -2 . t t . 1
x-1n ercep 1s 2
-1 -1
r-2

-5
-6

... - - II

1:1
-- - - - - -- --
9::0 '
- - - - -
Foundation worksheet 9:04
. . Graphing lines

D Complete the table for each equation.

a y= x + 1 b y = 2x c y = 3x + 1

x 0 1 2 x 0 1 2 x 0 1 2

y y y
d y= 6- 2x e y=x+3 f y=7x+2

x 0 1 2 x 0 1 2 x 2 3 4

y y y
g y=x-7 h y=1-x i y= 3

x 0 1 2 x 0 1 2 x 0 1 2

y y y

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

 Graph the lines described by these equations.
a x+y=3 b x +y=5 c x +y=2
d y=x+l e y=x+4 f y=x+2
•
g y = 2x - 1 h y = 3x - 1 I y = 2x- 2
•
J y=x+3 k y=2x l y = 6 - 2x

EJ Draw the graphs of these equations on the same number plane. What do these lines have
in common?
a y = 2x - 1 b y= 2x c y = 2x + 3

B Draw the graphs of these equations on the same number plane. What do these lines have
in common?
b y= 2x c y= 3x
El Draw the graphs of these equations on the same number plane. What do these lines have
in common?
a y = 2x - 1
II On which of the following lines does the point (6, 7) lie?
A y= x + 1 B x + 2y = 20 C y = 3x- 4
D 4x - 3y = 3 E x- y= 1 F y=x-1

II a Does (4, 0) lie on the line 4x + 3y = 16?

b Does the line y = 2x - 3 pass through the point (7, 11)?
c Which of the points (7, 2) and (7, -2) lie on the line y = x - 9?
d Which of the points (5, 0) and (0, 5) lie on the line x + 2y = 5?

D For each number plane write the equations of the lines A to F.

a A B C b A B C
}' y ' I I

-- •
-- D
4 '+
.....
3
-
c. '
E
E 1 ..... I• I•

I I I I
I
-5- -3-2- 0 1 2 4X -5-4- 3-2 -1 0 ..... 1 ..' . 3 I
j
x
1 -1
2 -c..- I F
3 -3 - -

F -4 -
5- -5 .....
r I

D Using values from -5 to 5 on each axis, draw the graphs of the following straight lines.
Use a new diagram for each part.
a y=4 x=5 y=-1 x=O b x=1, y=O, x=2, y=3
' ' '
c y = 4 x = 2 y = -2 x = -4 d x = 5, y = -5, x = 2, y = 2
' ' '
e y = -2 y= 0 x = 0 x = 3
' ' '
Which of these encloses a square region?

lf THAT all?
Hey, no problem!
l can do that!

9 Coordinate geometry
 Im Match each of the lines A to F with one of the following equations.
a y= 2x b y=x-2 c 2x + y = 0
d y= x e x+y=3 f 2x + y = 2
y y y
4 4 I - _ _,_ 4 -
A
3 3
2 2..-- 2t--/ -+-
1 1 1

- 3 -2 - 1 2 3 x -3 -2-1 1 2 3x -3 - 2 -1 . 1 2 3x
-1 -1
-2 -
-3 8 -3 -3

-
y y
4 4
3
2
1-t--r D

-3 -2-1 1 -3 -2-1 3X -3 -2-1 1 2 3X

-1 -1 -:1
-2 -2 -2
E F
-3 -3 -3

mWhich of the lines A, B, C or D at right could be A

described by the following equation?
a x-y=2 b x+y=4
c 2x + y + 2 = 0 d x - 2y + 2 == 0

Find the x- and y-intercepts and use them to graph

the following lines. 3
D
a 2x + y = 2 b 3x + y = 6
8
c 2x + y = 4 d 2x - y = 4
e 3x - y = 3 f 4x - y = 2
-4
Use a suitable method to graph each of these lines.
a 3x + 2y = 7 b Sx - 2y - 6 = 0 c 2x - 3y- 5 = 0

II GEOGEBRA ACTIVITY 9:04 GRAPHING LINES USING TWO POINTS

Choose one of the three sets of equations and work out 6 . = (2, 6)

the coordinates of two points on the line. Then click

5
and drag two given points to these positions. If you have
calculated correctly, the given line will appear.You can 4
then repeat the process with the other two lines.
3
The degree of difficulty of calculating the points varies
from line to line. 2

New sets of three equations can be generated randomly. l ' 1)

= (1,

0
-1 0 1 2 3
-1

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

 WHAT IS THE EASIEST JOB IN AWATCH FACTORY?
Answer each question and write the letter y
B
for that question in the box above the 5
E
4
correct answer.
3 Softie !!
A The length of AC == D units. 2
A c
''
N The length of BC== D units. 1 ---.
...- ,
F D
D The length of AB == D units. 0 1 2 3 4 5 x
((
(Use Pythagoras' theorem.)

Find the coordinates of·

AD NE S F
T Which quadrant is shown here?

Find the equation of:

A AC 0 BC C the x-axis
D the y-axis

If y == 4x - 10 find the value of}' when:

A x==S E x==2 F x==O G x == 1

Which of the equations y == x + 3, y == 2x + 1, y == 3x has produced the table?

I K M
x 0 1 2 3 x 0 1 2 3 x 3 4 5 6

y 0 3 6 9 y 3 4 5 6 y 7 9 11 13

Solve:
N 2x == x + 8 0 3y - 8 == 10 R 1 lx == 5x + 12
x-1
s == 2 T x == 1 3
uy 3
== -1
3

00 0 N If) 0
11 II II I II
II

N ('(') ....--..... \D 0 ....--..... 0 N ....--.....

('(') -.::::t- I 0 I 0
+ 11 + 11 0
"'
....._..., I "'
-.::::t-
....._...,
II
0
"'
....._...,
N
11
II

9 Coordinate geometry
 • •
-
• •
•
•

PREP QUIZ 9:05

If x == 0, what is the value of
y
1 2x 2 mx + b? 4

If x == 0, what is the value of y when: 3

3 y==3x+2 4 y==4x-1?

What is the gradient of 2 3 x

5 line A 6 line B? -2
What are the coordinates of they-intercept of -3
-4
7 line A 8 line B?

9 Does every point on the y-axis have an x-coordinate of O?

10 Can the y-intercept of a line be found by substituting x == O?

• The equation of a line can be written in several ways. For example:

x - y - 4 == 0, y == x - 4 and x - y == 4 are different ways of writing the same equation.
• x - y - 4 == 0 is said to be in general form.
It is common for the equation of a line to be written in general form.W e must b e able to
convert an equation from the gradient-intercept form to the general form and vice-versa.
• y == x - 4 allows us to get information about the line directly from the equation.

INVESTIGATION 9:05 WHAT DOES y- mx + b TELL US?

y y jl
y = 2x + 2
4 y = xr+- 2 4 4
3 y= lx +1
3 2 3
y = 2x- 3
2 2
y = x- 2
-3 -2 -1 3 x 3 x -3 -2 1 2 3 x.
-1
-2
® -3
® -4 -4 -

1 Use the graphs above to complete the table on the following page.

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

 Line Equation Gradient y-intercept

A y==x+2

B y==x-2

c
D

E y == 2x + 2

F y == 2x - 3

In an equation like y == 3x - 5:
• the number 3, in front of x, tells us how many of x we ) t"1e
coefficient
have and is called the coefficient of x
of x.
• similarly, the number in front of y is called the coefficient
of y. In this case the coefficient of y is 1
• the number -5 is called the constant.

2 Complete the table below. y = 3x- 5

Line Equation Coefficient of x Constant

A y==x+2

B y==x-2

c
D

E y == 2x + 2

F y == 2x - 3

3 From the tables in Questions 1 and 2, state how the gradient and y-intercept of a line are
related to its equation.

4 The graphs of equations 2x + y - 3 == 0 and y == -2x + 3 are the same line. The gradient is
-2 and the y-intercept is 3. Which form of the equation gives this information directly?
5 What does the form y == mx + b tell us about a line?

• When an equation of a line is written in the form y == mx + b:

m gives the gradient
b gives the y-intercept
• Clearly, lines with the same gradient are parallel.
(See the pairs of lines in Investigation 9:05.)
• When an equation of a line is written in the form ax + by + c == 0,
where a, band care integers and a> 0, it is said to be in general form.

9 Coordinate geometry
WORKED EXAMPLE 1
Write the gradient and y-intercept of these lines.
a y = 3x - 5 b y = -2x c }' = 4 - 3x

Here, m = 3, b = -5. Here, m = -2, b = 0. Here m = -3, b = 4.

The gradient is 3 and the The gradient is -2 and the The gradient is - 3 and the
y-intercept is -5. y-intercept is 0. y-intercept is 4.

WORKED EXAMPLE 2
T"1i> line i>
Find the gradient and y-intercept from the 'fall in 9 >o, t"1 e
1
,
y
graph and write the equation of the line. 9radient i>
3
2 ne9ative.
From the graph:
For every run of 2 there is a fall of 1,
1 2 3 4 x
gradient = - I
I

y-intercept = -1 .. - -
1
I

:. Equation of the line is y = - 1. -------·--

""-'

WORKED EXAMPLE 3
Change the equation into the form y = mx + b to find the gradient and y-intercept of
the following.
a 2y = 4x + 3 b 3x + y = 1 c 2x - 3y + 6 = 0
2y = 4x + 3 3x + y = 1 2x - 3y + 6 = 0
+2 +2 +2 -3x -3x +3y +3y
y = 2x + y = 1 - 3x 2x + 6 = 3y
+3 +3 +3
:. gradient= 2 : . gradient = - 3
y-intercept = 1
+2= y
y-intercept = 1
.·. gradient =
y-intercept = 2

WORKED EXAMPLE 4 y
5 y = 3x- 2
Use the y-intercept and gradient to graph the line y = 3x - 2. 4 I
I
3 I
I
3
Start at the y-intercept of -2. 2
I

1: '
rise 3
Now gradient= = 3= -
run 1 -1 1 2 3 x
-1 I 3
.·. For every run of 1 there is a rise of 3. -2 1:

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

 WORKED EXAMPLE 5
Remember! A ne9ative
Use the y-intercept and gradient •

• 9radient always- s-1ope>

to graph the line 4x + y == 2. y
2
'' down to the ri9ht._...,
First, rearrange the equation. 4x + J' = 2
1

4x + y == 2 -1 1 2 x
-1
-4x -4x -2 -
y == -4x + 2 -3 I :
-4 4:I
Then graph the line using the -5
I
I

y-intercept of 2 and gradient of -4. -6 --1

i

,, --- - - ...., _ -,,.,

lr.I
Exe.-rcise 9:05
-- -- -_.- - - ·- .. . - -· "· ___,,_ -- '
Foundation worksheet 9:05
. . Gradient-intercept form

What are the gradient and y-intercept of each of the following lines?
a y == 2x + 3 b y == 5x + 1 c y == 3x + 2 d y == 1x + 6
e y == 4x + 0 f y == x g y == x -2 h y == 5x - 1
i y == 6x - 4 j y == -2x + 3 k y == -x - 2 l y==-3x+1
x
m y==!x+4 n 0 y==-+5 p y == 4 - 3x
3
q y == -2 + 4x r y==3-!x
Find the equation of the line that has:
a a gradient of 4 and a y-intercept of 9
y=mx+b
b a gradient of -2 and a y-intercept of 3
c a gradient of 7 and a y-intercept of -1
d a gradient of -5 and a y-intercept of -2
e a gradient of! and a y-intercept of 5

f a gradient and a y-intercept of -4

g a y-intercept of 1 and a gradient of 3
h a y-intercept of -3 and a gradient of 2
i a y-intercept of! and a gradient of 5
j a gradient of 1 and a y-intercept of 1!

IJ For each diagram find the gradient and the y-intercept and use these to write the equation of
each line.
a b y c y d - y
6 6 6

----+-4 4 t---t
_____ __I
....

----+-2 2
----
-2 -2 0 2 4x -2 0 2 4x -2 0

9 Coordinate geometry
 e y f y g y h y
·
- - 2 2
2 2 +

-2 2 x 0 2 x -2 0 2 x -2 2 x·

-2
__ --- - -
,_____, --

B Match the graphs A to G with the equations below. A y c

a y= x
b y = 6 - 2x
c y=x+2
d y=-2
F
e
f y = -2x + 2 -6 -4 6 x
g y = 2x + 2 G

-4
,__ _ , _ _ + -+ , __,_._

-6

II By first changing the equation into the form y = mx + b, find the gradient and y-intercept
of the following.
a 2y = 4x + 10 b y + 3 = 3x c I=x+2
2
+2 +2 -3 -3 x2 x2
y = ... y = ... y = ...
: . gradient is ... :. gradient is ... : . gradient is ...
• • • • • •
y-1ntercept 1s ... y-1ntercept 1s ... y-1ntercept 1s ...
y
d 3y = 6x - 3 e y- 8 = Sx f - = 2x - 4
3
•
g 4y = 12x - 8 h y + 4 = -2x I y- 2x = 7
k 2y = x + 3 l 3x + y = S
•
J x+y=4

m 6x + 2y = 4 n 3x + 2y = 6 o 2x - Sy+ 1= 0
-6x -6x -3x -3x +Sy +Sy
2y = ... 2y = ... ... =Sy
+2 +2 +2 +2 +S +S
y = ... y = ... . .. = y
: . gradient is ... : . gradient is ... : . gradient is ...
• • • • • •
y-1ntercept 1s ... y-1ntercept 1s ... y-1ntercept 1s ...

D Lines with the same gradient are parallel.Are the following pairs of lines parallel or not?
a y = 3x + 2 and y = 3x - 1 b y = Sx - 2 and y = 2x - S
c y = x + 7 and y = x + 1 d y = x - 3 and y = 1x + 2
a Which of the following lines are parallel to y = 2x + 3?
If two lines are
y = 3x + 2 2x - y + 6 = 0
parallel, they have
2y = x + 3 y = 2x - 3
the same gradient.
b Two of the following lines are parallel. Which are they?
y =x - 3 x + y =3 y = 3x 3y = x y = -x + 8

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

 II Draw the graph of each line on a separate number plane by following these steps.
(Look at Worked Example 4.)
• Mark the y-intercept (the value of b) on the y-axis.
• 'Count' the gradient (the value of m) from this point, and mark a second point.
• Draw a line through this second point and the y-intercept.
a y = 2x + 1 b y =x + 2 c y = 3x - 1
d y = -2x - 1 e y = -x + 1 f y=-3x-3
g y=!x+2 h y=ix-1 i y=
j y=-!x+1 k y =-ix l

D a Graph lines with a y-intercept of 1 and a gradient of 0, 1, 2 and -1 on the same number plane.
b Graph lines with a slope of -1 and y-intercepts of -2, 0, 1 and 2 on the same number plane.
mJ The equation of each line has been given in general forni_. Find the gradient of each line by
rearranging the equation into gradient-intercept form.
a 2x + y + 6 = 0 b 4x - 2y + 5 = 0 c x + 2y + 1=0
d 4x - 3y + 6 = 0 e 4x - y + 3 = 0 f x + 3y- 6 = 0

II GEOGEBRA ACTIVITY 9:05 EQUATIONS OF A LINE

1 Finding the equation of a line ----------r-----r-----
I I

1
I

In this activity a line is generated randomly. Find the

s ----------r-----r-----
gradient and y-intercept of the line and use these to write 1
I

its equation in the form y = mx + b. Tick a checkbox to see 4 - - - - - -1- - - - - -r - - - - - r - - - - -

if the equation is correct. I
3
I I

Y = -xl + I
I I I
I I I
I I I

2 Equations of the form y = mx + b 1-----

1
- - - -1- - - - - - f - - - - - - I- - - - - -
I I
I
I

Use sliders to vary the values of m and b on a blue line.

I

-- 2 --- ---1.------L------
As these values are varied you can analyse the effect that
each has on the shape of the graph.You can then find the ,____ ! I

- - - -'- - - - --L-----
equation of a randomly produced red line. Use the sliders
to change the values of m and b on the blue line until it 0
coincides with the red line.
bl
I
0 :1
- - - -1- --- I
-- -- --- ---
3 Graphing lines using y = mx + b
In this activity you are given an equation and asked to graph the line by first dragging a
point to they-intercept. A gradient triangle and a line appears when this is done correctly.
The gradient triangle is used to find another point on the line. When this is successful, the
line changes colour.

4 Matching equations of lines to their graphs

The graphs and equations of four different lines are given for you to ni_atch each equation
to its graph.You can then check the solutions and generate a new set of lines and equations.

9 Coordinate geometry
 • •

• • • •

PREP OUIZ 9:06

A line has the equation y == 3x + 5. Find:
1 its gradient 2 its y-intercept
3 the value of y when x == 2 4 the value of x when y == 5.
If y == mx + c, find the value of c if:
5 m==2 x==O y==4 6 m == -2 x == 1 y == 3 7 m==3 x==-1 y==-2
' ' ' ' ' '
8 m == -2 x == -4 y == 10 9 m==O x==2 y==3 10 m== 1 x==2 y==2
' ' ' ' ' '

Any number of lines can be drawn through a given point. Each of these lines has a different
gradient, so the equation of a straight line can be found if we know its gradient and a point
through which it passes.
The equation of a line that passes through the point (1, 2) and y
has a gradient of 3 can be found using the equation y == mx + b. 5
We know that m == 3, but we must also find the value of b. To do
this, we substitute the coordinates of (1, 2) into the equation, as a
point on the line must satisfy its equation.
y==mx+b 2
:. y == 3x + b m == 3 is given
2 == 3(1) +b (1, 2) lies on the line
2 == 3 + b -2
:. b==-1
:. The equation of the line is y == 3x - 1.

To find the equation of a straight line that has a gradient of 2 and passes through (7, 5):
1 Substitute m == 2, x == 7 and y == 5 into the formula y == mx + b to find the value of b.
2 Rewrite y == mx + b, replacing m and b with their numerical values.

We can use the method above to discover a formula that could be used instead.
The equation of a line that has a gradient m and passes through the point (x1 , y1) can be found
using the equation y == mx + b.

y==mx+b gradient is m J'

: . y1 == mx1 + b (x 1, y 1) lies on the line
: . b == Y1 - mx 1
.·. The equation of the line is gradient= m
y == mx + (y 1 - mx 1)
0 x
y - y 1 == mx - mx1
:. y - Y1 == m(x - x1)

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

This last form of the answer is the easiest to remember as it could be written as y - Yi == m.
x-x1

The equation of a line with gradient m that passes through the point (x 1 , y1) is given by:
y-yl
y - y1 == n1(x - x 1) or == m .
x-x1

WORKED EXAMPLES
1 Find the equation of the line that passes through (1, 4) and has
Y ov can
gradient 2.
eitJ-,er f ormvla.
2 A straight line has gradient - ! and passes through the point (1, 3).
Find the equation of this line.
•. ' "
.•
Solutions
1 Let the equation of the line be: Or 1 y - y1 == m(x - x 1)

y == mx + b (x 1 , y1) is (1, 4), m == 2

:. y == 2x + b m == 2 is given :. y - 4 == 2(x - 1)
4 == 2(1) + b (1, 4) lies on the line
y- 4 == 2x - 2
4==2+b
:. b == 2 .·. y == 2x + 2 is the equation of the line.

.·. The equation is y == 2x + 2.

2 Let the equation be: Or 2 y - y1 == m(x - x 1)

y==mx+b (x 1 , y 1) is (1, 3), m == -!
:. y == -!x + b 111 == -!is given :. y-3==-!(x-1)
3 == -i(1) + b (1, 3) is on the line y-3==-!x+!
:. y == -!x + 3! is the equation of
•.• b==31.
2
the line .

. . 1 3 1
:. Th e equation 1s y == -2x + 2.

For each part, find b if the given point lies on the given line.
a (1, 3) , y == 2x + b b (2, 10) , y == 4 x + b c (-1,3),y==2x+b
d (5,5),y==2x+b e (3,1),y==x+b f (-1,-9),y==-2x+b

9 Coordinate geometry
lfl Find the equation of the straight line (giving answers
in the form y = mx + b) if it has:
a gradient 2 and passes through the point (1, 3) 'Slope' is- another name
b gradient 5 and passes through the point (0, 0) for
c gradient 3 and passes through the point (2, 2) 0
0
d slope 4 and passes through the point (-1, 6)
e gradient -1 and passes through the point (-2, 8)
f gradient -2 and passes through the point (0, 7)
g slope -5 and passes through the point (1, 0)
h and passes through the point (4, 5)
i gradient %and passes through the point (6, 31)
j slope -1 and passes through the point (-4, -1).

IJ a A straight line has a gradient of 2 and passes through the point (3, 2). Find the equation
of the line.
b A straight line has a gradient of -1. If the line passes through the point (2, 1), find the
equation of the line.
c What is the equation of a straight line that passes through the point (-2, 0) and has a
gradient of 3?
d A straight line that passes through the point (1, -2) has a gradient of -3.What is the
equation of this line?
e A straight line that has a gradient of 3 passes through the origin. What is the equation of
this line?
f Find the equation of the straight line that has a gradient of 4 and passes through the point
(-1, -2).
g (2, 8) is on a line that has a gradient of 4. Find the equation of this line.
h The point (-6, 4) lies on a straight line that has a gradient of -2. What is the equation
of this line?
i Find the equation of the straight line that has a gradient of 2 and passes through the
midpoint of the interval joining (1, 3) and (5, 5).
j A straight line passes through the midpoint of the interval joining (0, 0) and (-6, 4).
Find the equation of the line if its gradient is 1 ·

• •

• • •

Only one straight line can be drawn through two points. Given two points on a straight line,
we can always find the equation of that line.

Consider the line passing through (1, 1) and (2, 4). Let the equation of the line be:
y = mx + b (formula)

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

First find the gradient using the two points. y
Y2 -y1 4 (2, 4)
m==
X2 -xl (x1,r1) == (1, 1)
(x2, Y2) == (2, 4) 3
--
4-1
2-1
2
== 3
:. y== 3x+ b m == 3
1 (1 ' 1)
4 == 3(2 + b) (2, 4) lies on the line
:. b == -2
-1 0 2 3 x
:. The equation of the line is y == 3x - 2.
-1

To find the equation of a straight line that passes through the two points (1, 2) and (3, 6):
1 Find the value of the gradient m, using the given points.
2 For y == mx + b, find the value of b by substituting the value of m and the coordinates of
one of the given points.
3 Rewrite y == mx + b replacing m and b with their numerical values.
y2 -y1
Another method is to use the formula: y - y1 == (x - x 1), where (x1, y 1) and (x2, y2 )
X2 -x1
are points on the line.

WORKED EXAMPLE
Find the equation of the line that passes through the points (-1, 2) and (2, 8).

Solution
Let the equation of the line be: Or

y==mx+b
(x1 , y1 ) is (-1, 2), (x2 , y2 ) is (2, 8)
Y2 -y1
Now m==--- 8-2
(x1,r1) == (-1,2) :. y-2== [x-(-1)]
2-(-1)
8-2 (x2, Y2) == (2, 8)
2 - (-1)
_6
-
y - 2==2(x+1)
-3
y- 2 == 2x + 2
:. m == 2
.·. y == 2x + 4 is the equation of the line .
.·. y == 2x + b m == 2

(2, 8) lies on the line.

:. 8 == 2(2) + b
:. b == 4
.·. The equation is y == 2x + 4.

9 Coordinate geometry
D Find the gradient of the line that passes through the points:
a (2, 0) and (3, 4) b (-1, 3) and (2, 6)
c (3, 1) and (1, 5) d (- 2, -1) and (0, 9)
e (- 2, 1) and (2, 2) f (5, 2) and (4, 3)
g (0, 0) and (1, 3) h (1, 1) and (4, 4)
i (-1, 8) and (1, - 2) j (0, 0) and (1, -3)

Find the equations of the lines that pass through each pair
of points in Question 1.

IJ a Find the equation of the line that passes through the points (-2, -2) and (1, 4).
b The points A(4, 3) and B(S, 0) lie on the line AB.What is the equation of AB?
c What is the equation of the line AB if A is the point (-2, -4) and Bis (2, 12)?
d Find the equation of the line that passes through the points (1, 6) and (2, 8).
By substitution in this equation, show that (3, 10) also lies on this line.
e What is the equation of the line CD if C is the point (2, 3) and Dis the point (4, 5)?

B A is the point (-2, 1), Bis the point (1, 4) and y

C is the point (3, -2). 5
a Find the gradient of each side of MBC. 4
b Find the equation of each of the lines
AB, BC and AC. 2 t--

c Find the y-intercept of each of the lines 1

AB, BC and AC.
-3 -2 -1 0 3 4 x
d Find the equation of the line passing through -1
point A and the midpoint of interval BC. -2
c
e Find the gradient and y-intercept of the line passing
through point A and the midpoint of interval BC.

El a Find the equation of the line joining A(1, 2) and

B(S, -6) . Hence, show that C(3, -2) also lies on Recipe for
this line. Question Sa
1. Find the
b A(-2, 2), B(1, -4) and C(3, -8) are points on the
,...,,.,_equation of AB.
nu1nber plane. Show that they are collinear.
2. Substitute
c Show that the points (-2, -11), (3, 4) and (4, 7)
C into this
are collinear.
equation.
II Find the equation in general form of the lines that Collinear points
pass through the points: lie on the same
straight line.
a (3, -2) and (-4, 1)
b (-2, -4) and (3, 2)
c (1·3, - 2 ·6) and (4, - 7 ·3)
d (11 _2_) and (-21 1)
2' 3 3' 2

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

 WHY DID THE BANANA GO OUT WITH A FIG?
Answer each question and write the letter for that question in the box above the correct answer.

For the points A(2, 5), B(-1, 3), C(4, 2), D(O, 6),jind:
E distance AC E distance CD E distance BD
A slope of AB A slope of AD T slope of BC
T midpoint of DC N midpoint of AC I midpoint of AB

Find the gradie11t of the following lines.

C y = 2x - 1 U 2y = x - 5 G 2x + y + 1=0

Find the y-intercept of the following lines.

D y = 2x - 1 T 2y = x - 5 L 2x + y- 1=0

Find the equation of the line with:

C gradient of 2 and a y-intercept of -1 0 slope of 3 and a y-intercept of 5
T y-intercept of 4 and a slope of -2 S y-intercept of -2 and a slope of 4.
Write in the form y = mx + b. )I
B(4, 5)
B 2x - y - 5 = 0 E 2x - y + 5 = 0 A x=ty-2

In the diagram,jind: c
D the slope of AB U coordinates of C.
A(1, 1)
x

If) If) N rilN rilN N (<") .......-.....

"tj-
.......-.....
"tj-
If) .......-.....
(<") IN rill{) N 0 rlIN N I('(") -tj-1 ('(") "'1'" N
I + I I I I I I N
+ N (<")
"
.....__.,. .....__.,.
r>

+ rilN
"
I I
(<")
N
.....__.,.
(<")
.....__.,.
N N "tj- N N "tj-

11 11 11 II II 11 11

How many times in a day are the

minute and hour hands of the clock
at right angles?

9 Coordinate geometry
 •
-

Up to this point, all the graphs have been straight lines. There are many types of mathematical
curves and in this section we will look at two of them, the parabola and the exponential curve.

Parabolas
• The equations of parabolas can be identified because 2
y=x
2
they have x as the highest power of x.
The simplest equation of a parabola is y = x .
2 x -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3
• As with the straight line, the equation is used to find the y 9 4 1 0 1 4 9
points on the curve. Some of these are shown in the table.
}'
For an accurate graph, many points would have to be plotted.
9
• From the graph, we can see that the parabola has a turning
2
point, or vertex, which is the minimum value of y on y = x . 8
• The y-axis is an axis of symmetry of the curve, so the right
7
side of the curve is a reflection of the left side. This can be
seen when points on either side of the axis are compared. 6
• The parabolas that we will consider have two basic shapes.
5
The one on the left below is said to be concave up, whereas
the one on the right is said to be concave down. 4

Parabolas- can be 3
tiappy (up) ors-ad (down)
2

concave • 1
up •
.
•
,
I

concave • -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3x
•
down •
•

Exponential graphs
• The simplest exponential equation is y = 2x.
Notice that in this equation x is a power, and hence there is y
a connection with the topic of Indices (see Chapter 6). 8
Again, a table of values is used to find points that lie on the curve. 7
6
Y = 2x
5
x -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 _,_4

3
y 0·125 0·25 0·5 1 2 4 8
2

• When plotting points it is often necessary to round the y-values

to one decimal place. -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 x
• Notice what happens to the y-values of the points as the x-values
increase and decrease.

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

 Copy and complete the following tables. By comparing the values obtained with the given
graphs, find which of the graphs A to C would result from plotting each set of points.
2 2
a y==x +1 b y==x -1
x -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 x -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3
I
y y
-
2
c y==x +2
x -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3
y
A y B y c y
12 12 -12
10 10 10
8 8 8
6 6 6
4 4 4

-3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 x -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 x -3 -2 - 2 3 x
-2

2
Complete a table of values ranging from x == -3 to x == 3 for the parabola y == x - 2 and use
the values obtained to graph the equation.

El a What are the coordinates of the vertex for each of the parabolas in question 1?
b Is the vertex also the y-intercept of the parabola?
c Are the parabolas symmetrical?
d Does the vertex lie on the axis of symmetry?
Complete a table of values ranging from x == - 3 to x == 3 for each of the following equations.
State which of the graphs E, F or G would be obtained by plotting those points.
2 2 2
a y == -x b y == -x + 1 c y = -x - 2

E y F y G y
' 2
-3 0 2 3 x -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 :>O
-2
-3 -2 -1 0 2 3 x
-4 -4 -2
-6 -4
-8 -8 -6-1--
-10 -10 -8
-12 -12 -10
-12

9 Coordinate geometry
El a Write the coordinates of the vertex for each of the parabolas in question 4.
b Is the vertex also the y-intercept of the parabola?
c Are the parabolas symmetrical?
d Does the vertex lie on the axis of symmetry?
D For each of the following, complete a table of values
A B
y
and use it to state the graph (A, B, C or D) that 8
matches the equation. 7
2
a y == x + 3 6
2
b y==1-x 5
2
c y == x - 4
2
d y == -x + 4
2
Using the results from Questions 1 to 6, how can you use
the equation of a parabola to tell if the parabola is concave
up or concave down? -4 -3 -.-.. 1 0 3 4 x
-1- 1--
D Using a table of values ranging from -3 to 3, graph each -2
of the following equations.
2
a y == 3 - x
2
b y == x + 4
2
c y == -x - 1 -6
c D

D Copy and complete each of the following table of values. Which of the exponential graphs E,
F, G or H would result from plotting that set of points?
a y == 2x b y == 2-x

x -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 x -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3
y y
d y == -2-x

x -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 x -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3
y y

E y F y
8 2
7 1
6
x
5
4 -2
3 -3
2 - -4

-=5

-3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 x·
- · -6
-7
G -8 H

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

 Im By finding suitable points, match each equation
A
y
B
with one of the exponential curves A to D. 10
a y = -1+2x 9
b y=4+2 - x 8
c y = -2x + 2 7
d y = 2 - 2-x 6

Hint: Use the equations to find they-intercept for 4

each curve. If these are the same, find another point.
3
D
2
c

-4 -3 - 2 3 4 x·
-1
-2

II GEOGEBRA ACTIVITY 9:08 NON-LINEAR GRAPHS

1 Graphing parabolas 6 , I
f
- - - ---- - - -,- - - - 1 -------

The equations of two parabolas that are given can be varied by 1 • I

using sliders. After completing a table of values the points can
be plotted via the Input bar. Tick the checkbox to reveal the
graph and show whether the points have been plotted
accurately.
-----
2 Exponential curves
I

This is similar to Activity 1 but uses exponential curves rather ---- -- ----- --- l ----- ' --

than parabolas.
-3 -2 2 3
3 Matching parabolas to their equations -1

The equations of five parabolas and their graphs are given

I -2 ----- I
- --- ---
and you are asked to match each parabola to its equation. 1

Tick a checkbox to show the correct answer. A new set of - - --

-3 - - -- -- -

equations and parabolas can be randomly generated. -

-4
I
I
- -

MATHS TERMS 9
coefficient coordinates
• the number that ni_ultiplies a pronumeral • a pair of numbers that gives the position
• •
in an equation, of a point in a number plane relative to
e.g. 3x - Sy = 6 the origin
coefficient of x is 3 • the first of the coordinates is the
coefficient of y is -5 x-coordinate. It tells how far right (or left)
the point is from the origin
• the second of the coordinates is called the
y-coordinate. It tells how far the point is
above (or below) the origin

9 Coordinate geometry
 constant midpoint
• the nu1nber part of an equation or • point marking the middle of an interval
•
expression, midpoint formula
e.g. 3x - Sy = 6 • gives the midpoint of the interval joining
The constant is 6 (x1' Y1) to (x2, Y2)
distance formula Y1 + Y2
Midpoint= '
• gives the distance between the points 2 2
(x1, Y1) and (x2, Y2) number plane
• a rectangular C(-3, 2)
d= 2 A(3, 2)
grid that allows • •
general form 3 1
the position of
• a way of writing the equation of a line points to be -3 -2 10 1 2 3 x
• the equation is written in the form identified by -1 E(O, -1)
ax + by + c = 0, where a, b, c are integers an ordered -2
and a> 0 pair of numbers D(-2,' -3) - 3
gradient y •
or1gm
• .

• the slope of a line • • the point where the x-axis and y-axis
rise
or interval; it can be intersect, (0, O); see ® in number plane
measured using run
x plot
the formula: • to mark the position of a point on the
•
nse number plane
Gradient = - -
run quadrants y
gradient formula • the four 3

• gives the gradient of the interval joining 2nd 2 1st

quarters that quadrant quadrant
(x1' Y1) to (xz, Y2) 1
the number
m = Y2 -y1 plane is divided -3 -2 -1 1 2 3 x
-1
X2 -x1 into by the
3rd -2 4th
gradient-intercept form x- and y-axes quadrant quadrant
• -3
• a way of writing the equation of a line, x-aXIs
e.g. y = 2x - 5, y = -!-x + 2 • the horizontal number line in a number
when an equation is rearranged and plane; see G) in number plane
written in the form y = mx + b then m x-intercept
is the gradient and b is the y-intercept • the point where a line or curve crosses the
•

graph (noun) x-axis

•
• a diagram showing the relationship y-axis
between two variable quantities, usually • the vertical number line in a number
shown on a number plane plane; see ® in number plane
graph (verb) y-intercept
• to plot the points that lie on a line or • the point where a line or curve crosses
curve the y-axis
interval
• the part of a line between two points

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

 COORDINATE GEOMETRY
These questions reflect the important skills introduced in this chapter.
Errors made will indicate areas of weakness.
Each weakness should be treated by going back to the section listed.

1 Find the length of the interval AB in each of the fallowing. 9:01

(Leave answers in surd form.)
a Y B b y c y
4
A
4 2
B
3 1
2 2
-2 -1 2 3 x
1 I
I I I .. I

-2 -1 2x -2
1 2 3 x -4 -2 0 A
-3
-2 B -4

2 Use the distance formula to find the distance between each pair of points. 9:01
a (1, 2) and (7, 10) b (3, 0) and (5, 3) c (-3, -2) and (1, -3)
3 Find the midpoint of the interval joining each pair of points. 9:02
a (1, 2) and (7, 10) b (3, 0) and (5, 3) c (-3, -2) and (1, -3)

4 What is the gradient of each line? 9:03

a b c
y y y
4 4 4
3 3
2 2
1 1
.
-3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 x -3 -2 -1 0 1 2 x -3 -2 -1 0 2 3 x
-1 -1 t--

-2 -2 -2

5 Find the gradient of the line that passes through: 9:03

a (1, 3), (2, 7) b (-2, 8), (4, 5) c (0, 3), (3, 5)
6 a Does the point (3, 2) lie on the line x + y = 5? 9:04
b Does the point (-1, 3) lie on the line y = x + 2?
c Does the point (2, -2) lie on the line y = x - 4?
7 Graph the lines with the following equations. 9:04
a y = 2x + 1 b 2x - y = 3 c 3x + 2y = 6

8 State the x- and y-intercepts of the lines. 9:04

a 2x - y = 3 b x + 3y = 6 c x + 2y = 4
9 Graph these lines. 9:04
a x= 2 b y =-1 c x=-2

9 Coordinate geometry
 10 Write the equation of the line that has: 9:05
a a gradient of 3 and a y-intercept of 2
b a gradient and a y-intercept of -3
c a y-intercept of 3 and a gradient of -1

11 Write each of the answers to Question 10 in general form. 9:05

12 What is the gradient and y-intercept of these lines? 9:05

a y = 2x + 3 b y = 3 - 2x c y = -x + 4
13 Rearrange these equations into gradient-intercept form. 9:05
a 4x - y + 6 = 0 b 2x + 3y - 3 = 0 c Sx + 2y + 1 = 0
14 Find the equation of the line that: 9:06
a passes through (1, 4) and has a gradient of 2
b has a gradient of -3 and passes through (1, 3)
c has a gradient and passes through (-2, 0).

15 Find the equation of the line that: 9:07

a passes through the points (1, 1) and (2, 3)
b passes through the points (-1, 2) and (1, -4)
c passes through the origin and (3, 4).

16 Match each equation with the 17 Match each equation with the 9:08
corresponding parabola in the corresponding exponential curve
diagram. in the diagran1.
A y B y
4 8
7 B
2 6
5
4
-1 0 3 x'
-1
A

c
-4
-3 -2 -1 0 1 2 3 x
c
2
a y = -x + 3 a y = 2x
2 b y = 2-x
b y= x + 1
2
c y= x - 3 C y = 2 + 2x

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

ASSIGNMENT9A

1 Find: y 5 The points X(2, 2), Y(-2, 4) and Z(-4, 0)

a the length AB 6 A(6, 5) form a triangle. Show that the triangle is
5
as a surd both isosceles and right-angled.
4
b the slope of AB 3 6 A median of a triangle is a line drawn from
c the midpoint 2
a vertex to the midpoint of the opposite
of AB.
side. Find the equation of the median
-1 1 2 ,, 4 5 6 x
·- 1 I through A of the triangle formed by the
-2 points A(3, 4), B(-2, -4) and C(-6, 8).
B(2, -2)

2 A is the point (2, 5) and B is the point (7, 17). 7 Show that the points A(S, 21), B(30, 41)
a What is the length AB (as a surd)? and C(100, 97) are collinear (they all lie on
b What is the slope of AB? the same straight line).
c What is the midpoint of AB? 8 OABC is a parallelogram.Dis the point
3 A is the point (6, 5) and Bis the point where BC meets the y-axis. Find:
(2, -2). a the coordinates of B and its distance
a What is the equation of the line AB? from the origin
b The line AB passes through the point b the distance OD
(100, b).What is the value of b? c the area of
y
4 a A line has an x-intercept of 3 and a B
gradient of 1. Find where the line crosses
the y-axis and hence, write its equation. C(- 1, 4)
b A line has a slope of - and a
y-intercept of 6. What is its equation? A (4, 2)
What is its x-intercept?
c A line has an x-intercept of 3 and a 0 x
y-intercept of 6. What is its equation?

The coordinate system

for locating points on
Earth is based on circles.

9 Coordinate geometry
 ASSIGNMENT 98 orkin mathematically
1 The diagram shows a 4-minute timer. b doubles matches can be played (a doubles
a If this timer was started match is two players against two players).
with the pointer on
zero, what number 3 1
\ )

would it be pointing
to after 17 minutes? 2

b At what times between

30 minutes and 1 hour will the pointer
be pointing at number 3?

2 The faces of a cube are

divided into 4 squares.
If each square on each
face is to be painted, what
is the minimun-i number
of colours needed if no
squares that share an edge
can be the same colour?

3 Brendan and Warwick wish to use a

photocopier to reduce drawings.
a Brendan's drawing is 15 cm high but
must be reduced to 8 cm to fit into the
space he has left for his project. What 5 What is the smallest whole number that,
percentage setting must he choose on if you multiply by 7, will give you an
the photocopier to achieve the required answer consisting entirely of Ss?
reduction?
6 A 4 X 4 grid is drawn and the numbers 1,
b Warwick thinks the machine is
2, 3 and 4 are placed in the grid so that
malfunctioning so he decides to check
every number occurs only once in each
it by reducing his drawing, which is
row and only once in each column.
20 cm long. He chooses the 60% setting.
If the machine is functioning properly, 1 2 3
what would you expect the length of 4 2
his picture to be? 4
c The setting button jams on 68%.
What size copies are possible by
repeated use of this button? a Find the 1nissing numbers in the grid
(Give all answers above 20%) shown.
b Now place the numbers in a 4 x 4 grid,
4 Four friends decide to play tennis. Find out
following the rules above, so that the
how many different:
sums of the diagonals are 16 and 4.
a singles matches can be played (a singles
match is one player against another player)

Australian Signpost Mathematics New South Wales 9 Stages 5.1-5.3

ASSIGNMENT 9C umulative revision
1 Expand and simplify each of the following. 3:06,
2
a (Sa - 2)(2 - Sa) b (Sa - 2)(2 +Sa) c (Sa - 2) 3:07

2 A 2009-10 survey produced the following figures on the involvement of people 4:05
aged 1S years and over in organised and non-organised sporting and physical
recreational activities. If a person over 1 S is chosen at random, what is the chance
that they:
a do not participate in sport or physical
•
recreation Non-
b participate only in organised activities Organised organised
activities activities
c participate in only non-organised activities 15%
d participate in an organised activity 11 %
38%
e participate in both organised and
36%
non-organised activites?

3 The composite solid shown has been 5:05,

formed from a rectangular prism by 5:06
10cm
removing a triangular prism. Calculate
20cm
the volume and surface area of the solid.
20cm

12cm
25cm 15cm

4 a In a supermarket, the normal rate of pay is $18 per hour and overtime is paid at 8:02,
one-and-a-half times the normal rate. How much will be earned by a person 8:08
who works 38 hours at normal rates and 6 hours of overtime?
b A shop is having a sale. The original ticket prices are reduced by SO% to give the
sale price. Loyalty members of the shop are then given a further 2S% discount
off the sale price. How much will a loyalty member pay for a coat with an
original ticket price of $2SO? What was the overall percentage discount?

5 Solve: 7:03,
3m-4 b Sm_ (2m - 7) = 7:04
a = 8 8
6 2 3
6 a Write each of the following as a fraction. 6:02,
i a- 2
ii 6a- 2
iii (6a)- 2 6:03
b Evaluate:
1
i 42

9 Coordinate geometry