Question

A straight line passes through the point (5, -2) and the portion of the line intercepted between the axes is divided at this point in the ratio 2:3. Find the equation of the line.

Answer 1

Given: The ratio of the line intercepted between the axes is 2:3

Let (x₁, y₁) = A(a, 0)

And (x₂, y₂) = B(0, b)

Where a and b are intercepts of the line.

Formula used: The equation of the line is: x/a+y/b = 1

And the co - ordinate axis is divided at (5,-2), thus by using Section formula

(5, -2) divides the co - ordinate axis, thus (x, y) = (5, -2).

Hence, 3x – 5y = 25 is the required equation of the line.