How to Find Intercepts: Tips and Tricks for Solving Equations

  • Thread starter nycmathguy
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In summary, the conversation discusses finding intercepts for a given equation and provides steps for finding the y-intercept and two possible x-intercepts. The conversation also mentions the poster's previous threads in the Precalc section and the number of replies needed to reach a solution as a metric for their understanding of the material. The poster expresses their determination to continue with the material and seeks help and guidance along the way.
  • #1
nycmathguy
Homework Statement
Find any intercepts for the given equation.
Relevant Equations
n/a
Find any intercepts for each given equation.

y = 1 - | x |

Let x = 0

y = 1 - | 0 |

y = 1 - 0

y = 1

The y-intercept is y = 1 and it is located at the point (0, 1).

Let y = 0

0 = 1 - | x |

-1 = -| x |

-1/-1 = | x |

1 = | x |

We have two cases:

x = -1, x = 1

The x-intercepts are x = -1 and x = 1 and both are found at the points (-1, 0) and (1, 0).

You say?
 
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  • #2
Ok.
Ssnow
 
  • #3
Ssnow said:
Ok.
Ssnow
It's ok? Really? This terrible precalculus self-study middle-aged guy from NYC got it right. Really?
 
  • #4
nycmathguy said:
It's ok? Really? This terrible precalculus self-study middle-aged guy from NYC got it right. Really?
Before you break your elbow patting yourself on the back, here are some statistics on a few of your threads, all of which are in the Precalc section:
  • Proof Involving the Diagonals of Parallelogram - 13 replies
  • Determine the quadrant(s) in which (x, y) could be located - 17 replies
  • Write the Standard Form of the Equation for this Circle - 16 replies
  • Find Two Numbers -- Have Two Equations and Two Unknowns - 30 replies
  • Estimate Revenue Per Share - 12 replies
  • Collinear Points -- Ways to determine if points are collinear - 20 replies
  • Standard Form of the Equation of a Circle - 15 replies
  • Find a and b to make this equation symmetric about the y-axis: y = ax^2 + bx^3 - 24 replies
The number of replies needed to get to a solution is a reasonable metric for how well (or not so well) you've retained the information in the class you took some 28 years ago. Your difficulty with these problems is part of the reason that so many helpers have advised you to spend some time on more basic material.
 
  • #5
Mark44 said:
Before you break your elbow patting yourself on the back, here are some statistics on a few of your threads, all of which are in the Precalc section:
  • Proof Involving the Diagonals of Parallelogram - 13 replies
  • Determine the quadrant(s) in which (x, y) could be located - 17 replies
  • Write the Standard Form of the Equation for this Circle - 16 replies
  • Find Two Numbers -- Have Two Equations and Two Unknowns - 30 replies
  • Estimate Revenue Per Share - 12 replies
  • Collinear Points -- Ways to determine if points are collinear - 20 replies
  • Standard Form of the Equation of a Circle - 15 replies
  • Find a and b to make this equation symmetric about the y-axis: y = ax^2 + bx^3 - 24 replies
The number of replies needed to get to a solution is a reasonable metric for how well (or not so well) you've retained the information in the class you took some 28 years ago. Your difficulty with these problems is part of the reason that so many helpers have advised you to spend some time on more basic material.
I will stay the course. If the material goes way over my head, then we can talk about algebra 1. For now, I seek steps, hints and help along the way, if that's even possible.
 

FAQ: How to Find Intercepts: Tips and Tricks for Solving Equations

1. What is the definition of intercepts in mathematics?

In mathematics, intercepts refer to the points where a graph or line crosses the x-axis or y-axis. These points are also known as x-intercepts and y-intercepts, respectively.

2. How do you find the x-intercept of a line?

To find the x-intercept of a line, set y = 0 and solve for x. This will give you the x-coordinate of the point where the line crosses the x-axis.

3. How do you find the y-intercept of a line?

To find the y-intercept of a line, set x = 0 and solve for y. This will give you the y-coordinate of the point where the line crosses the y-axis.

4. Can a line have more than one intercept?

Yes, a line can have multiple intercepts. If the line intersects with the x-axis at more than one point, it will have multiple x-intercepts. Similarly, if it intersects with the y-axis at more than one point, it will have multiple y-intercepts.

5. How do you use intercepts to graph a line?

To graph a line using intercepts, plot the x-intercept and y-intercept on a coordinate plane and then connect the two points with a straight line. This will give you the graph of the line passing through those two intercept points.

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