Answer:
The value of a is -2
Step-by-step explanation:
We are asked to give the value of a
We are provided with some information
We are given slope to be 4
And two points ( -1 ,-1) and
( a, -5)
Given the formula for slope
m = y_2 - y_1 / x_2 - x_1
Points ( -1 , -1)
(a, -5)
x_1 = -1
y_1 = -1
x_2 = a
y_2 = -5
Inserting the values given into
m = y_2 - y_1 / x_2 - x_1
= -5 - (-1) / a - (-1)
= -5 + 1 / a + 1
= -4 / a + 1
We are given the slope to be 4
i. e. m = 4
4 = -4 / a + 1
Cross multiply
4( a + 1) = -4
Open the bracket with 4
4a + 4 = -4
Collect like terms
4a = -4 - 4
4a = - 8
Divide both sides by 4 to get the value of a
4a / 4 = -8/4
a = -2
Therefore, x_2 = -2
the value of a = -2
