Page 134 - Mathematics
P. 134
Example 6.7
Show that a straight line passing through the points M(3,1) and N(3,4) is
vertical.
Solution
Given the points M(3,1) and N(3,4). The gradient of the line joining the
two points is given by;
y − y
m = 2 1 . Let ( , ) (3, 1)xy = and ( ,xy ) (3, 4).=
x − x 1 1 1 2 2
Tanzania Institute of Education
2
It follows that,
41−
m =
3 3−
3
= which is undefined
0
Since the gradient of the line joining M and N is undefined, then the line MN
is vertical.
Example 6.8
Determine the nature of the straight line joining the points P(1, 2) and Q(5,2).
Solution
Given the points P(1, 2) and Q(5,2). The gradient of the line joining the
two points is given by;
y − y
m = 2 1 . Let ( , ) (1, 2)xy = and ( ,xy ) (5, 2).=
x − x 1 1 1 2 2
2
22−
Thus, m = 51−
Mathematics Form One Since the gradient of the line PQ is 0, then the nature of the line is horizontal.
0
=
4
0
=
128
25/10/2024 09:51:48
Mathematics form 1.indd 128
Mathematics form 1.indd 128 25/10/2024 09:51:48
