Is it usually y=mx+c or y=mx+b?

Question

Is it usually y=mx+c or y=mx+b?
I've seen people use both but which one are you supposed to use? Explain please.

Answer 1

Hi,

Both equations are technically correct. When you're using "c" in the first equation, that just means that you're adding some type of constant number. However, the letter "b" is sometimes used to identify the y-intercept of a linear line. But don't get me wrong, "c" can also be used as the y-intercept since it's a constant added number. Therefore, we can conclude that they are THE SAME so therefore both should be accepted by your teacher.

I hope that helps you out! Please let me know if you have any other questions!

Sincerely,

Andrew

Answer 2

Y = mX + c
This is the equation of a straight line. It has two Variables (X & Y) and two constants (m & c)

Now, as long as you know the underlaying truth of the equation that ... the Y co-ordinate of the point on a line is the sum of - "slope times X co-ordinate (m * X)" - and - " a constant (usually c)" it doesn't actually matter if you refer the constant as b.

The constant in the above equation ( call it "c" or "b" or"einstein" ) is the Y intercept of the line i.e the point at which the line intersects the Y axis. It doesn't matter what you call it.
In many literatures you will find the constant being referred as "c" and hence I would personally encourage you to use the same.

Slope however is universally referred as m, however you may at times find it being referred to as "l" or "s".

But such change of variable names should not confuse you from understanding the beauty of the equation. :)

Answer 3

The commonly used formula as u can find in any algebra/calculus math book is y = mx + C. However, C or B it depends on ur preferrence. Its just an unknown to be resolved. However to avoid confusion, use C. Cheers.

Answer 4

Usually it is y = mx +b.

It could be anything such as k or n.

c is most commonly used to indicate a costant of integration

Answer 5

Its usually y=mx+c, as c is universally accepted as constant. But then again, all that matters is that you understand...

Answer 6

They mean the same thing, but I thing y=mx+b is more commonly used. b is the slope. y is the y intercept. (if I remember right)

Answer 7

both are right as long as you understand what they mean. mostly y-mx+b is commonly used though.

Answer 8

y=mx+b is the equation most used.

you use in when finding any of the above letters.
The linear equation.

wow alot of these people are wrong on here.,

M is the slope
y is the answer or what it would be on the y intercept line
x is the x intercept
b is the y intercept

Answer 9

It does not matter what symbol you use as long as you understand its meaning.

Answer 10

actually m is the slope and b is the y-intercept.