y-intercept

Definition of y-intercept

  • The y-coordinate of the point where a line intersects the y-axis is the y-intercept of that line.

                                  

More about y-intercept

The x-coordinate of the point where a line intersects the y-axis is 0. So, the y-intercept of a line can also be found by substituting x = 0 in the equation of the line.

              

Examples of y-intercept 

The y-intercept of the line shown is – 6.

                               

Solved Example on y-intercept

Find the y-intercept of the line shown in the graph.

                                                                           

Choices:

A. - 3

B. 0

C. 3

D. 1

Correct Answer:  A

Solution:

Step 1: The y-coordinate of the point where a line intersects the y-axis is the y-intercept of that line.

Step 2: The graph of the line crosses the y-axis at (0, - 3).

Step 3:  So, the y-intercept of the line is - 3.

Related Terms for y-intercept

  • y-axis
  • y-coordinate
  • Line
  • Point
                         

Additional Links for y-intercept