Question

In the general linear equation \[Y = a + bX\], what does the constant 'a' represent?

Options

• The intercept on the Y-axis, i.e., the value of Y when X = 0

• The slope of the line, i.e., tan θ

• The variable with a linear relationship to Y

• The intercept on the X-axis, i.e., the value of X when Y = 0

Answer 1

In the intercept form of a linear equation \[Y = a + bX\], X and Y are variables with a linear relationship, while a and b are constants. The constant 'a' is the intercept on the Y-axis, meaning it gives the value of Y when X = 0. The constant 'b' is the slope of the line, i.e., tan θ.