Graph of a Linear Equation

1. Graphical Representation

A linear equation in two variables ($ax + by + c = 0$) represents a straight line on the Cartesian plane. Every point on this line is a solution to the equation, and every solution to the equation is a point on this line.

2. Steps to Draw the Graph

To draw the graph of a linear equation, follow these steps:

  1. Express $y$ in terms of $x$ (or $x$ in terms of $y$). e.g., $y = 3x - 2$.
  2. Choose at least two convenient values for $x$ and find the corresponding values of $y$.
  3. Prepare a table of these solutions $(x, y)$.
  4. Plot these points on a graph paper.
  5. Join the points with a straight line and extend it in both directions.

Example: Graph of $x + y = 4$

  • If $x = 0$, then $0 + y = 4 \Rightarrow y = 4$. Point: $(0, 4)$
  • If $x = 4$, then $4 + y = 4 \Rightarrow y = 0$. Point: $(4, 0)$
  • If $x = 2$, then $2 + y = 4 \Rightarrow y = 2$. Point: $(2, 2)$

Plotting $(0, 4), (4, 0), (2, 2)$ and joining them gives the graph.

3. Equations of Lines Parallel to Axes

  • Equation of X-axis: $y = 0$
  • Equation of Y-axis: $x = 0$
  • Line parallel to X-axis: $y = k$ (where $k$ is a constant).
  • Line parallel to Y-axis: $x = k$ (where $k$ is a constant).

Practice Questions - Free Preview

5 Sample Questions
Question 1
The graph of the linear equation $2x + 3y = 6$ cuts the $y$-axis at the point:
A. $(2, 0)$
B. $(0, 2)$
C. $(3, 0)$
D. $(0, 3)$
Correct Answer: B
On the $y$-axis, $x = 0$. Using $x=0$ in the equation: $2(0) + 3y = 6 \Rightarrow 3y = 6 \Rightarrow y = 2$. So the point is $(0, 2)$.
Question 2
The equation $x = 7$, in two variables, can be written as:
A. $1 \cdot x + 0 \cdot y = 7$
B. $1 \cdot x + 1 \cdot y = 7$
C. $0 \cdot x + 1 \cdot y = 7$
D. $0 \cdot x + 0 \cdot y = 7$
Correct Answer: A
Since $y$ is missing, its coefficient is 0. Thus, $1 \cdot x + 0 \cdot y = 7$.
Question 3
Any point on the line $y = x$ is of the form:
A. $(a, a)$
B. $(0, a)$
C. $(a, 0)$
D. $(a, -a)$
Correct Answer: A
Since $y = x$, the ordinate must equal the abscissa. Thus, points are like $(1, 1), (2, 2), (-5, -5)$, generally $(a, a)$.
Question 4
The graph of $y = 6$ is a line:
A. Parallel to x-axis at a distance of 6 units from the origin
B. Parallel to y-axis at a distance of 6 units from the origin
C. Making an intercept 6 on the x-axis
D. Making an intercept 6 on both axes
Correct Answer: A
$y = k$ represents a line parallel to the x-axis. Here $y = 6$ is a horizontal line 6 units above the x-axis.
Question 5
Which of the following points lies on the line $y = 2x + 3$?
A. $(2, 8)$
B. $(3, 9)$
C. $(4, 12)$
D. $(5, 15)$
Correct Answer: B
Substitute $x=3$: $y = 2(3) + 3 = 6 + 3 = 9$. Since LHS = RHS, $(3, 9)$ lies on the line.

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Related Chapters

Graph of a Linear Equation - Exam Preparation Strategy

When studying Graph of a Linear Equation for your final board exams, it is critical to focus on the core concepts and fundamental formulas. Relying strictly on NCERT textbook solutions and practicing previous year questions (PYQs) is the proven methodology for scoring high marks. Avoid rote memorization and instead focus on the logical application of the theories presented in this chapter.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

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Board exams tend to favor conceptual application questions and direct formula-based derivations from the NCERT syllabus. Ensure you have solved every single exercise in the official textbook.

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Yes, the NCERT textbook is the absolute gold standard for board exams. However, to improve your speed and accuracy during the actual exam, you must supplement your reading by solving timed mock tests and objective questions.