Question

Marcus, Devin, and Ariel are in disagreement about the equation of the line that is parallel to the y-axis and goes through the point (-11, -6). Marcus believes that the equation of the line is y=-6. Devin believes that it is x=-11, and Ariel thinks that the correct equation is x=-6. Who is correct? Explain. If none of them are correct, state that, provide the correct answer, and explain.

a) Marcus is correct.
b) Devin is correct.
c) Ariel is correct.
d) None of them are correct.

Answer 1

Devin is correct with the equation x = -11, as it represents the vertical line passing through the point (-11, -6) and is parallel to the y-axis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer is b) Devin is correct. The equation for a line that is parallel to the y-axis and goes through a specific point has the form x = c, where c is the x-coordinate of the point through which the line passes. Since the line goes through the point (-11, -6), the equation of the line is x = -11.

Marcus's answer, y = -6, describes a horizontal line that intersects the y-axis at -6, which is not parallel to the y-axis. Ariel's answer, x = -6, would be a vertical line as well but through the x-coordinate -6, which is not the x-coordinate of the point given. Hence, only Devin's answer appropriately describes the vertical line through the point (-11, -6).