student project · week 1–2

Algebra Visualizer

Every linear equation draws a straight line. Drag the sliders to see how slope and intercept change the shape of that line.

slope m 1.0
−50+5
y-intercept b 0.0
−100+10
try these →

Where does the line cross the x-axis?

That crossing point is the answer to mx + b = 0 — the algebra problem and the picture are the same thing.

Bigger m → steeper

Slope is rise over run. Crank m up and the line tilts up harder; flip its sign and it mirrors.

Bigger b → higher

The line keeps the same tilt but slides up or down. b decides where it meets the y-axis.

Where y = 0

The x-intercept is the solution to the equation. The graph literally shows you the answer.