key characteristics of a linear graph definition
A linear graph is a type of graph that represents a linear equation. Some key characteristics of a linear graph include:
1. Straight Line: A linear graph always represents a straight line. Every point on the graph lies directly on the line or the extension of the line.
2. Constant Slope: The slope of a linear graph remains constant throughout the entire line. It represents the rate of change of the dependent variable with respect to the independent variable.
3. Zero Intercept: A linear graph can have zero or one intercept with either the x-axis or the y-axis. If the intercept exists, it represents the value of the dependent variable when the independent variable is zero.
4. Equal Increments: The linear graph exhibits equal increments in both the x and y directions. This means that for a certain change in the x-coordinate, there is an equal change in the y-coordinate, and vice versa.
5. Proportional Relationship: There is a proportional relationship between the independent and dependent variables in a linear graph. This means that as the independent variable increases or decreases by a certain amount, the dependent variable also increases or decreases by a corresponding amount.
6. Linearity: The graph represents a linear equation or a linear function. The equation can be written in the form y = mx + b, where m is the slope and b is the y-intercept. The equation represents a straight line on the graph.
These characteristics help to identify and understand linear graphs and their relationship between variables.