How do you find the x and y intercepts from a table
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
To find the x-intercept and y-intercept from a table of values, you need to identify the points where the function crosses the x-axis and y-axis, respectively. Here’s how to do it:
- Y-Intercept:
- The y-intercept occurs where the x-value is 0. This is because the y-intercept is the point where the graph crosses the y-axis, and at that point, the x-coordinate is always 0.
- Look for the row in the table where x = 0. The corresponding y-value in that row is your y-intercept. Example: If the table has a point like (0, 3), the y-intercept is 3.
- X-Intercept:
- The x-intercept occurs where the y-value is 0. This is because the x-intercept is the point where the graph crosses the x-axis, and at that point, the y-coordinate is always 0.
- Look for the row in the table where y = 0. The corresponding x-value in that row is your x-intercept. Example: If the table has a point like (4, 0), the x-intercept is 4.
Example Table:
| x | y |
|---|---|
| -2 | 4 |
| -1 | 2 |
| 0 | 1 |
| 1 | 0 |
| 2 | -2 |
- Y-Intercept: When x = 0, y = 1. So, the y-intercept is 1.
- X-Intercept: When y = 0, x = 1. So, the x-intercept is 1.
Explanation
The x-intercept represents the point where the function or equation crosses the x-axis, meaning the value of y at that point is zero. Therefore, finding the row in the table where y = 0 gives the x-intercept. Similarly, the y-intercept is the point where the function crosses the y-axis, so at that point, x = 0.
By using this approach, you can quickly identify intercepts from tables, which is particularly useful when working with discrete data points or when graphing isn’t feasible. These intercepts are critical in understanding the behavior of the function in real-world applications, as they often represent significant moments or thresholds (like break-even points in business).