Verified Answer :

  • Identify the x-intercept by setting \(y=0\), yielding \(x=8\).
  • Identify the y-intercept by setting \(x=0\), yielding \(y=-6\).
  • Express the equation in slope-intercept form as \(y = \frac{3}{4}x - 6\) to find the slope of \(\frac{3}{4}\).
  • Plot the points \((8, 0)\) and \((0, -6)\) and draw a line through them to represent the linear equation \(\boxed{3x - 4y = 24}\).

Explanation

  1. Analyzing the Linear Equation

The given equation is \(3x - 4y = 24\), which is a linear equation in two variables representing a straight line in the Cartesian coordinate system. To graph this line, we need to identify key points that lie on it, specifically the x-intercept and the y-intercept. These intercepts provide the points where the line crosses the axes, making it easy to plot.

  1. Finding the Intercepts

To find the x-intercept, we set \(y = 0\) and solve for \(x\):
\[3x - 4(0) = 24\]
\[3x = 24\]
\[x = 8\]
So, the x-intercept is at the point \((8, 0)\).

To find the y-intercept, we set \(x = 0\) and solve for \(y\):
\[3(0) - 4y = 24\]
\[-4y = 24\]
\[y = -6\]
So, the y-intercept is at the point \((0, -6)\).

  1. Determining the Slope-Intercept Form

We can also express the line in slope-intercept form (\(y = mx + b\)) to understand its slope and orientation.
Starting from \(3x - 4y = 24\):
\[-4y = -3x + 24\]
Dividing by -4:
\[y = \frac{-3}{-4}x + \frac{24}{-4}\]
\[y = \frac{3}{4}x - 6\]
This confirms the y-intercept is \(-6\) and the slope of the line is \(\frac{3}{4}\). This means that for every 4 units we move to the right, the line moves 3 units upwards.

  1. Graphing the Line

To graph the equation, we plot the two points \((8, 0)\) and \((0, -6)\) on the Cartesian plane. By connecting these points with a straight line, we obtain the graphical representation of the equation \(3x - 4y = 24\). This line extends indefinitely in both directions. The final result of the graphing process is a straight line passing through \((0, -6)\) and \((8, 0)\).

Examples

In architecture and engineering, drawing linear relationships is crucial. For instance, if a construction budget requires a specific ratio of materials (like concrete versus steel) that costs exactly a set amount, it can be modeled as a linear equation. Graphing this equation allows builders to visualize all possible combinations of materials that fit within that budget, helping them choose the most cost-effective and structurally sound proportions.