Question

Find the equations of a line containing the point A(3, 4) and making equal intercepts on the co-ordinate axes.

Answer 1

Let the equation of the line be

`x/"a" + y/"b"` = 1

Since, the required line make equal intercepts on the co-ordinate axes.
∴ a = b
∴ (i) reduces to x + y = a          …(ii)
Since the line passes through A(3, 4).
∴ 3 + 4 = a
i.e. a = 7
Substituting a = 7 in (ii) to get
x + y = 7.