How can you find the slope of a line between two points (x1, y1) and (x2, y2)?

Prepare for the TAMU MATH140 Mathematics Exam with study tools including flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question comes with hints and explanations to help you excel. Get ready for your final exam!

To find the slope of a line between two points (x1, y1) and (x2, y2), the correct formula to use is the change in the y-coordinates divided by the change in the x-coordinates. This relationship can be expressed mathematically as:

Slope = (y2 - y1) / (x2 - x1).

This formula captures the rate of change of y with respect to x, essentially quantifying how much y changes for a given change in x. In other words, the slope measures how steep the line is and in which direction it is inclined. If the slope is positive, the line rises from left to right; if negative, it falls.

The other options are not correct because they either reverse the roles of the x and y coordinates or do not reflect the actual definition of slope. The first option incorrectly places the change of x over the change of y, which does not align with the definition of slope. The third option, while it maintains the right idea of dividing changes, reverses the order of the coordinates, leading to an inaccurate calculation. The last option adds the x and y coordinates together rather than measuring the difference in y-values over the difference in x-values, which does

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