A linear equation is a mathematical equation that represents a straight line on a graph. It has the general form:
ax + b = y
Where:
- 'a' is the slope or the coefficient of the variable 'x'
- 'b' is the y-intercept or the point where the line crosses the y-axis
- 'x' and 'y' are the variables
Some examples of linear equations include:
- y = 2x + 3
- 4x - 5y = 10
- x + y = 7
Linear equations have a constant rate of change, meaning the slope is the same throughout the entire line. They are the simplest type of equation that represents a straight-line relationship between two variables. Linear equations are fundamental in algebra, geometry, and many other areas of mathematics.