C 01 Lines and Linear Relationships
C 01 Lines and Linear Relationships
1.1 Overview
Hey students! Bring these pages to life online
Watch Engage with Answer questions
videos interactivities and check results
1.1.1 Introduction
The French mathematician René Descartes
(1596–1650) was one of the first to combine
algebra and geometry.
The story may be fictional, but it is said that
while lying in bed one morning Descartes
was engaged by the problem of how to
describe the position of the fly that he
was watching move about on a wall in his
bedroom. He proposed that the position of the
fly could be fixed by specifying two numbers:
one number giving the fly’s distance from
one wall and the other its distance from the
adjoining perpendicular wall. The concept
of specifying the position of a point using
coordinates had come to Descartes.
Furthermore, he recognised that algebra and geometry could be combined. Graphs, such as lines and circles,
could be specified by equations. This branch of mathematics, developed by Descartes, Fermat and others, is
called analytic geometry or coordinate geometry.
The idea of using a reference frame was not entirely new, as the ancient Greeks had used such a concept. The
astronomer Eudoxus (c.408−335 BCE) devised a complex coordinate system to represent the motion of the sun
and moon with the Earth as origin.
Today coordinate systems are used in large-scale real-world applications, such as GPS tracking of vehicles from
aircraft to delivery vans. GPS tracks positions relative to the two fixed axes of the Greenwich Prime Meridian
and the equator. In the abstract, digital world, the three-dimensional polar and cylindrical coordinate systems are
used in all computer animation.
KEY CONCEPTS
This topic covers the following key concepts from the VCE Mathematics Study Design:
• use of symbolic notation to develop algebraic expressions and represent functions, relations, equations,
and systems of simultaneous equations
• substitution into, and manipulation of, these expressions
• solution of a set of simultaneous linear equations (geometric interpretation only required for two
variables) and equations of the form f(x) = g(x) numerically, graphically and algebraically.
Note: Concepts shown in grey are covered in other topics.
Source: VCE Mathematics Study Design (2023–2027) extracts © VCAA; reproduced by permission.
2 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 3 — #3
THINK WRITE
x+a b−x
Solve for x: = .
b a
THINK WRITE
x+a b−x
1. Place each fraction on the common =
denominator and then multiply each side by b a
that term. a (x + a) = b (b − x)
Note: Since there is only one fraction on each ax + a2 = b2 − bx
side of this equation, a quick way to do this is
to ‘cross-multiply’.
2. Collect all the terms in x together and take out ax + bx = b2 − a2
x as the common factor. x (a + b) = b2 − a2
b2 − a2
3. Divide by the coefficient of x to obtain an ∴ x=
expression for x. a+b
4. Simplify the expression, if possible. The numerator can be factorised as a difference of two
squares.
b2 − a2
x=
a+b
(b − a) (b + a)
=
a+b
(b − a) +
(b a)
5. Cancel the common factor to give the solution x=
a+b
in its simplest form.
∴ x = b−a
4 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 5 — #5
4x
Calculate the values of x for which 5 − > 13 and show this set of values on a number line.
5
THINK WRITE
4x
1. Subtract 5 from both sides of the inequation. 5− > 13
Note: Subtracting a number does not affect 5
4x
the inequality symbol. − > 13 − 5
5
4x
− >8
5
2. Multiply both sides by 5. − 4x > 8 × 5
Note: Multiplying by a positive number does −4x > 40
not affect the inequality symbol.
40
3. Divide both sides by −4. x<
Note: Dividing by a negative number does −4
require the symbol to be reversed. ∴ x < −10
4. Illustrate this set of values on a number line.
x
–25 –20 –15 –10 –5 0 5
The number line has an open end at x = −10 since this
value is not included in the set of solutions, x < −10.
The organisers of an annual student fundraising event for charity know there will be a fixed cost of
$120 plus an estimated cost of 60 cents per student for incidental costs on the day of the fundraiser.
The entry fee to the fundraising event is set at $5.
a. Form an algebraic model for the profit the event can expect to make.
b. Determine the least number of students who must attend the event to avoid the organisers
making a loss.
THINK WRITE
a. 1. Define the variables. a. Let n = the number of students attending the event.
Let P = the profit made in dollars.
2. Form expressions for the cost and the Profit depends on costs and revenues.
revenue, ensuring units are consistent. Revenue ($) = 5n
Costs ($) = 120 + 0.60n
3. Form the expression for the profit to define Profit = revenue − costs
the algebraic model. Hence,
P = 5n − (120 + 0.60n)
∴ P = 4.4n − 120 gives the linear model for the
profit.
b. 1. Impose the condition required to avoid a loss b. A loss is made if P < 0. To avoid making a
and calculate the consequent restriction on n. loss, the organisers require P ≥ 0.
4.4n − 120 ≥ 0
4.4n ≥ 120
120
n≥
4.4
∴ n ≥ 27.2727...
2. Express the answer in the context of the To avoid making a loss, at least 28 students
question. need to attend the event.
1.2 Exercise
Technology free
1. WE1 Solve the following linear equations for x.
4 − x 3x − 2
a. 3 (5x − 1) = 4x − 14 b. + =5
3 4
6 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 7 — #7
their fete, they must contribute $100 towards heating and lighting costs and in addition donate 20 c from the
sale of each book to the Scouts Association. The books are intended to be sold for $2.50 each.
a. Form an algebraic model for the profit the book sale can expect to make.
b. Determine the least number of books that must be sold to ensure the organisers make a profit.
15. A company manufactures a special batch of mobile phone covers. The fixed costs are $250 and materials
cost $1.80 per cover. The company sells the covers for $12 each. Determine how many mobile phone covers
the company will need to sell to cover all of their costs.
16. The local football club is raising funds for new equipment by setting up a takeaway stall during all of their
games. The stall cost the club $65. They sell drinks for $4 each, but the club purchases the drinks for $1.20
each. The cost of the new equipment is $450. Determine how many drinks the club will need to sell before it
has the funds for this new equipment.
x−a b−x
−2=
b a
To determine the value of one variable, one equation is needed. However, to find the values of two variables,
two equations are required. These two equations form a 2 × 2 system of equations. To determine the values of
three variables, three equations are required, that is a 3 × 3 system of equations. This pattern continues for four
variables with a 4 × 4 system of equations.
Substitution method
In the substitution method, one equation is used to express one variable in terms of the other, and this expression
is substituted in place of that variable in the second equation. This creates an equation with just one variable that
can then be solved.
8 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 9 — #9
Elimination method
In the elimination method, the two equations are combined in such a way as to eliminate one variable, leaving an
equation with just one variable that can then be solved.
a. Use the substitution method to solve the following system of simultaneous equations for x and y.
y = 3x − 1
x − 3y = 11
b. Use the elimination method to solve the following system of simultaneous equations for x and y.
8x + 3y = −13
5x + 4y = −6
THINK WRITE
a. 1. Write the two equations and number them for a. y = 3x − 1 [1]
ease of reference. x − 3y = 11 [2]
2. Since the first equation already has y in terms Substitute equation [1] into equation [2]:
of x, it can be substituted for y in the second x − 3 (3x − 1) = 11
equation.
3. Solve for x. x − 9x + 3 = 11
−8x = 11 − 3
−8x = 8
∴ x = −1
4. Substitute the value of x into one of the Substitute x = −1 into equation [1]:
original equations and calculate the y-value. y = 3 (−1) − 1
∴ y = −4
5. State the answer. The solution is x = −1 and y = −4.
6. It is a good idea to check that these values Check: In equation [2], if x = −1 and y = −4,
satisfy both equations by substituting the then:
values for x and y into the other equation. x − 3y = (−1) − 3 × (−4)
= −1 + 12
= 11
True
b. 1. Write the two equations and number them for b. 8x + 3y = −13 [1]
ease of reference. 5x + 4y = −6 [2]
2. Choose whether to eliminate x or y and adjust Eliminate y.
the coefficient of the chosen variable in each Multiply equation [1] by 4:
equation. 32x + 12y = −52 [3]
Note: Neither equation readily enables one Multiply equation [2] by 3:
variable to be expressed simply in terms of 15x + 12y = −18 [4]
the other, so the elimination method is the
more appropriate method here.
3. Eliminate y and solve for x. Equation [3] − equation [4]:
Note: ‘Same Signs Subtract’ can be 32x − 15x = −52 − (−18)
remembered as the SSS rule. 17x = −34
∴ x = −2
4. Substitute the value of x into one of the Substitute x = −2 into equation [2]:
original equations and calculate the y-value. 5 (−2) + 4y = −6
Note: Alternatively, start again but this time −10 + 4y = −6
eliminate x. 4y = −6 + 10
4y = 4
∴ y=1
2. The answer appears on the x = −2, y = 1 2. The answer appears on the x = −2, y = 1
screen. screen.
Note: Alternately,
choose the symbol for
simultaneous equations on
the keyboard.
The annual student fundraising event for charity has been scheduled for the next week. If 30 students
and 5 staff attend, the revenue gained on entry fees is $145, whereas if 55 students and 15 staff attend,
the revenue is $312.50. Determine how much the proposed entry fee is for a student and how much it
is for a member of the staff.
THINK WRITE
a. 1. Define the variables and express the given a. Let the entry fees be:
information using a pair of simultaneous s dollars for students and
equations. t dollars for staff.
30s + 5t = 145 [1]
55s + 15t = 312.5 [2]
10 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 11 — #11
3. Write the answer in a sentence. The student entry fee is $3.50 and the staff
entry fee is $8.
3x − 4y + 5z = 10
2x + y − 3z = −7
5x + y − 2z = −9
THINK WRITE
Use your CAS calculator with the steps below x = −1, y = −2 and z = 1
to obtain the result.
TI | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE CASIO | THINK DISPLAY/WRITE
1.3 Exercise
Technology free
1. WE5 a. Use the substitution method to solve the following system of simultaneous equations for x and y.
x = 2y + 5
4x − 3y = 25
b. Use the elimination method to solve the following system of simultaneous equations for x and y.
5x + 9y = −38
−3x + 2y = 8
2. Solve each of the following sets of simultaneous equations for x and y.
a. 4x + 3y = 5 b. x = 2y − 4 c. 7x − 3y = 11
y = x−3 x = 1 − 8y 2x + 3y = 7
d. 2x + 3y = 10 e. 2x + 3y = 11 f. 4x − 3y = −38
x − y = −5 3x + 5y = 18 5x + 2y = −13
3. Solve the following simultaneous equations for x and y.
y
a. y = 5x − 1 b. x=5+
x + 2y = 9 2
−4x − 3y = 35
4. Solve the following simultaneous equations for x and y.
x y
a. 8x + 3y = 8 b. + =8
2 3
35 x y
−2x + 11y = + =7
6 3 2
5. Solve the following simultaneous equations for x and y.
a. 2x − y = 7 b. ax − by = a
7x − 5y = 42 bx + ay = b
6. Solve the following simultaneous equations for x and y.
a. 4x − 3y = 23 b. 3 (x + 2) = 2y
7x + 4y = 31 7x − 6y = 146
7. WE6 a. When 4 adults and 5 children attend a pantomime, the total cost of
the tickets is $160, whereas the cost of the tickets for 3 adults and 7 children
is $159. Determine the cost of an adult ticket costs and a child’s ticket.
b. A householder’s electricity bill consists of a fixed payment together with
an amount proportional to the number of units used. When the number of
units used was 1428 the total bill was $235.90, and when the number of
units was 2240 the bill was $353.64.
Let the fixed payment be $a and the cost per unit be $k.
Determine how much the householder’s bill will be if 3050 units
are used.
12 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 13 — #13
Technology active
8. WE7 Solve the following 3 × 3 system of simultaneous equations for x, y and z.
5x − 2y + z = 3
3x + y + 3z = 5
6x + y − 4z = 62
z = 12 − x + 4y
z = 4 + 5x + 3y
z = 5 − 12x − 5y
12. Agnes, Bjork and Chi are part-time outsource workers for a
manufacturing industry. When Agnes works 2 hours, Bjork 3 hours and
Chi 4 hours, their combined earnings total $194. If Agnes works
4 hours, Bjork 2 hours and Chi 3 hours, their total earnings are $191;
and if Agnes works 2 hours, Bjork 5 hours and Chi 2 hours their
combined earnings total $180.
Calculate the hourly rate of pay for each person.
13. A student buys a sandwich at lunchtime from the school canteen for
$4.20 and pays the exact amount using 50-cent coins, 20-cent coins
and 10-cent coins. The number of 20-cent coins is the same as half the
number of 10-cent coins plus four times the number of 50-cent coins,
and the student pays the cashier with 22 coins in total.
Determine how many coins of each type the student used.
14. a. Use CAS technology to obtain the values of x, y and z for the following system of equations.
2x + 6y + 5z = 2
5x − 10y − 8z = 20.8
7x + 4y + 10z = 1
b. Use CAS technology to obtain the values of x, y, z and w for the following 4 × 4 system of equations.
x − y + 4z − 2w = 8
3x + 2y − 2z + 10w = 67
2x + 8y + 18z + w = −14
8x − 7y − 80z + 7w = 117
c. Use CAS technology to obtain the values of x1 , x2 , x3 and x4 for the following 4 × 4 system of equations.
14 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 15 — #15
Plotting ordered pairs (x, y) that satisfy the linearly related variables x and y creates a straight-line graph. From
earlier study in Years 9 and 10, you will be familiar with the linear relationship y = mx + c, where m is the
gradient of the line and c is the y-intercept.
Gradient
rise y2 − y1
m= =
run x2 − x1
(x2, y2)
rise = y2 – y1
(x1, y1)
run = x2 – x1
0 x
y y
m>0
run
rise
fall
run
0 x 0 x
m>0
Horizontal lines have a gradient of zero since the rise between any two points is zero. The gradient of a vertical
line is undefined since the run between any two points is zero.
y y
m=0
0 x 0 x
m is undefined
All vertical lines are parallel, and all horizontal lines are parallel. For other lines, if they have the same gradient,
then they have the same steepness, so they must be parallel to each other.
(0, 4)
(10, 0)
0 x
THINK WRITE
1. Examine the diagram to locate two known The intercepts with the coordinate axes are shown.
points on the line and state their coordinates. Given points: (0, 4) , (10, 0)
2. Apply the gradient formula using one point as Let (x1 , y1 ) = (0, 4) and (x2 , y2 ) = (10, 0).
(x1 , y1 ) and the other as (x2 , y2 ). y − y1
m= 2
x2 − x1
0−4
=
10 − 0
4
=−
10
∴ m = −0.4
3. State the answer. The gradient of the given line is −0.4.
16 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 17 — #17
THINK WRITE
3x
a. 1. Calculate the y-intercept. a. y = −
2
When x = 0, y = 0.
⇒ (0, 0) is both the x- and the y-intercept.
The line must pass through the origin.
2. A second point is needed. Substitute another Point: let x = 2.
value for x in the equation of the line. 3 × (2)
y=−
2
= −3
⇒ (2, −3) is a point on the line.
3. Plot the two points and sketch the line. y
3x
y =–
2
(0, 0)
0 x
(2, –3)
(0, –6)
x=4
0 (4, 0) x
0 x
18 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 19 — #19
Point–gradient form
A line with gradient m and passing through the point (x1 , y1 )
has the equation:
y − y1 = m(x − x1 )
Gradient−y-intercept form
For a line with gradient m cutting the y-axis at the point (0, c), use (0, c) for (x1 , y1 ) in the point–gradient form:
y − y1 = m (x − x1 )
∴ y − c = m (x − 0)
∴ y = mx + c
Gradient–y-intercept form
A line with gradient m and y-intercept c has the equation:
y = mx + c
a. Form the equation of the line with gradient 4 passing through the y
point (3, −7).
b. Form the equation of the line passing through the points (5, 9)
and (12, 0).
c. For the line shown, determine its equation. 0 (8, 0) x
d. Obtain the gradient and the coordinates of the y-intercept of the
line with the equation 3x − 8y + 5 = 0.
(0, –4)
THINK WRITE
a. 1. State the given information. a. The gradient and a point are given.
m = 4, (x1 , y1 ) = (3, −7)
2. Write the point–gradient form of the y − y1 = m (x − x1 )
equation.
3. Substitute the given information and simplify y − (−7) = 4 (x − 3)
to obtain the equation. y + 7 = 4x − 12
∴ y = 4x − 19
0−9
2. Use the two points to calculate the gradient. m=
12 − 5
9
=−
7
4. The point–gradient equation can be used Let (12, 0) be the given point (x1 , y1 ) in this
with either of the points. Substitute one of equation.
the points and simplify to obtain the equation. 9
y − 0 = − (x − 12)
7
9
− y = − (x − 12)
7
rise
c. 1. Calculate the gradient from the graph (or use c. m=
the coordinates of the y-intercept and the run
4
x-intercept points). m=
8
1
∴ m=
2
1
2. One of the points given is the y-intercept. m = , c = −4
State m and c. 2
3 5
2. State m and c. m= ,c=
8 8
3
3. Express the answer in the required form. The gradient is and the y-intercept is
( ) 8
5
0, .
8
20 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 21 — #21
Resources
Resourceseses
Interactivity Equations from point–gradient and gradient–y-intercept forms (int-2551)
1.4 Exercise
Technology free
1. WE8 Calculate the gradient of the given line.
(–3, 0)
0 x
(0, –4)
2. a. Determine the gradient of the straight line with x-intercept at (−2, 0) and y-intercept at (0, 4).
b. Determine the gradient of the line shown.
(3, 0)
0 x
(0, –2)
1
0 x
–3
d. Determine the gradient of the line passing through the points (7, −2) and (2, 5).
4. Show that the line passing through the points (a, b) and (−b, −a) is parallel to the line joining the points
(−c, d) and (−d, c).
5. WE9 Sketch the set of points for which:
a. y = 4x b. 3x + 2y = 6 c. y = 2
9. Determine the equation of the line parallel to the x-axis that passes through the point (2, 10).
10. a. State the equation of the line with a y-intercept at (0, 2) and a y
gradient of 5.
b. Determine the equation of the graph shown.
c. Determine the equation of the line with a gradient of 3 and passing
through the point (1, 2). 0 x
d. Form the equation of the linear graph passing through the origin with ( )
–1,0
2
a gradient of −5.
e. Form the equation of the line that passes through the points (−1, 0) (0, –1)
and (3, −2).
f. Determine the equation in the form ax + by + c = 0 for the line with
3
gradient − and passing through the point (−3, 5).
4
11. a. Form the equations of the given graphs.
i. y ii. y
8
7 12
6
5 9
4
3 6
2 3
1
x
–3–2–1 0
–1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 x
–2 –3
22 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 23 — #23
iii. y iv. y
3 3
2 2
1 1
x x
–5 –4 –3 –2 –1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 –4 –2 0 2 4
–1 –1
–2 –2
–3 –3
–4 –4
b. A line contains the points (−12, 8) and (−12, −1). Form its equation and sketch its graph.
c. Determine the equation of the line passing through (10, −8) that is parallel to the line y = 2 and sketch its
graph.
12. Determine the equations of the straight lines that are described by the following information.
a. Gradient −5, passing through the point (7, 2)
2
b. Gradient , passing through the point (−4, −6)
3
3
c. Gradient −1 , passing through the point (0, −9)
4
d. Gradient −0.8, passing through the point (0.5, −0.2)
e. Passing through the points (−1, 8) and (−4, −2)
f. Passing through the points (0, 10) and (10, −10)
13. a. State the gradient and the coordinates of the y-intercept of the graph that has the equation y = 2x − 8.
b. State the gradient of the line with equation 5x − 3y − 6 = 0.
c. Determine the gradient and the coordinates of the y-intercept of the line with equation 4y − 3x = 4.
d. Determine which of these lines are parallel.
i. 3x − 4y − 4 = 0
ii. 4y − 3x − 6 = 0
iii. 6x − 8y − 6 = 0
iv. 2y − 6x − 12 = 0
14. Determine the gradients and the y-intercepts of the lines with the following equations.
2x y
a. 4x + 5y = 20 b. − = −5
3 4
c. x − 6y + 9 = 0 d. 2y − 3 = 0
Technology active
15. Sketch with CAS technology the lines with the following equations.
a. 2y − 4x = −11 b. x = 5 c. y = −3
16. a. Determine the value of a if the point (2a, 2 − a) lies on the line given by 5y = −3x + 4.
b. Form the equation of the line containing the points (p, q) and (−p, −q).
2
3
x 0 x
0 3 –3
–2 0 x
2
D. y E. y
6
0 x
2
x –3
0 2
24 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 25 — #25
The model for the revenue in dollars, d, from the sale of n items is dR = 20n, and the cost of
manufacture of the n items is modelled by dC = 500 + 5n.
a. Find the coordinates of the point of intersection of the graphs of these two models and sketch the
graphs on the same set of axes.
b. Obtain the smallest value of n for a profit to be made.
THINK WRITE
a. 1. Write the equation at the point of a. At the intersection or break-even point:
intersection. dR = dC
20n = 500 + 5n
100
3. Calculate the d coordinate. When n = ,
3
100
d = 20 ×
3
2
∴ d = 666
3
( )
1 2
4. State the coordinates of the point of The point of intersection is 33 , 666 .
intersection. 3 3
5. Both graphs contain the intersection point. Points: Let n = 0.
Find one other point on each graph. ∴ dR = 0 and dC = 500
The revenue )
( graph contains the points (0, 0) ,
1 2
33 , 666 .
3 3
The cost graph contains the points
( )
1 2
(0, 500) and 33 and 666 .
3 3
6. Sketch the graphs. d (dollars) Revenue
800
Costs
600 1 2
(0, 500)
(33 – –
3 , 666 3 )
400
200
0 n
10 20 30 40 50
m1 ≠ m2 m1 = m2 m1 = m2, c1 = c2
(parallel) (identical)
Case 1: Unique solution to the Case 2: No solution to the Case 3: Infinitely many
system. The equations represent system. The equations represent solutions. The equations are
two lines that intersect at a single parallel lines. equivalent and represent the same
point. line. Every point on the line is a
solution.
y = m1 x + c1
y = m2 x + c2
then:
• there is a unique solution if m1 ≠ m2
• there is no solution if m1 = m2 and c1 ≠ c2
• there are infinitely many solutions if m1 = m2 and c1 = c2 .
26 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 27 — #27
Determine the value of m so that the system of equations shown below has no solutions.
mx − y = 2
3x + 4y = 12
THINK WRITE
1. Rearrange both equations to the y = mx + c mx − y = 2 ⇒ y = mx − 2
form. and
3
3x + 4y = 12 ⇒ y = − x + 3
4
3
2. State the gradients of the lines the equations The gradients are m and − .
represent. 4
3. State the condition for the system of equations For the system of equations to have no solution, the
to have no solution, and calculate m. lines must be parallel but have different y-intercepts.
For the lines to be parallel, the two gradients have to
be equal.
3
∴ m=−
4
3
4. The possibility of the equations being Substitute m = − into the y = mx + c forms of the
equivalent has to be checked. 4
equations.
3 3
y = − x − 2 and y = − x + 3 represent parallel lines
4 4
since they have the same gradients and different
y-intercepts.
3
5. State the answer. Therefore, if m = − , the system will have no
4
solution.
Show that the three lines with equations 5x + 3y = 1, 4x + 7y = 10 and 2x − y = −4 are concurrent.
THINK WRITE
1. Select a pair of equations to solve Consider the following equations:
simultaneously. 4x + 7y = 10 [1]
2x − y = −4 [2]
3. Test whether the values for x and y satisfy the Substitute x = −1, y = 2 into 5x + 3y = 1.
third equation. LHS = 5 × (−1) + 3 × (2)
=1
= RHS
Therefore, (−1, 2) lies on 5x + 3y = 1.
4. Write a conclusion. Since (−1, 2) lies on all three lines, the three lines
are concurrent. The point (−1, 2) is their point of
concurrency.
Resources
Resourceseses
Interactivity Intersecting, parallel and identical lines (int-2552)
1.5 Exercise
Technology free
1. Use simultaneous equations to find the coordinates of the point of intersection of the lines with equations
3x − 2y = 15 and x + 4y = 54.
2. Determine the coordinates of the point of intersection of each of the following pairs of lines.
a. 4x − 3y = 13 and 2y − 6x = −7
3x
b. y = − 9 and x + 5y + 7 = 0
4
c. y = −5 and x = 7
28 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 29 — #29
4. WE11 If the model for the revenue in dollars, d, from the sale of n items is dR = 25n, and the cost of
manufacture of the n items is modelled by dC = 260 + 12n:
a. determine the coordinates of the point of intersection of the graphs of these two models and sketch the
graphs on the same set of axes
b. obtain the smallest value of n for a profit to be made.
5. The daily cost of hiring a bicycle from the Pedal On company is $10 plus 75 cents per kilometre, whereas
from the Bikes R Gr8 company the cost is a flat rate of $20 with unlimited kilometres.
a. State the linear equations that model the costs of hiring the bicycles from each company.
b. On one set of axes, sketch the graphs showing the cost versus the number of kilometres ridden, for
each company.
c. Determine the number of kilometres after which the costs are equal.
d. Shay wishes to hire a bicycle for the day. Explain how Shay can decide which of the two companies
would be cheaper.
6. WE12 Determine the value of m so that the following system of equations has no solutions.
2mx + 3y = 2m
4x + y = 5
7. Determine the values of a and b for which the following system of equations will have infinitely many
solutions.
ax + y = b
3x − 2y = 4
8. Determine the value of p for which the lines 2x + 3y = 23 and 7x + py = 8 will not intersect.
px + 5y = q
3x − qy = 5q
c. State the relationship that must exist between p and q so the lines px + 5y = q and 3x − qy = 5q
will intersect.
Technology active
10. Use the graphing facility on CAS technology to obtain the point of intersection of the pair of lines
17 + 9x 3x
y= and y = 8 − , to 2 decimal places.
5 2
11. The line passing through the point (4, −8) with gradient −2 intersects the line with gradient 3 and
y-intercept 5 at the point Q. Find the coordinates of Q.
12. WE13 Show that the three lines with equations 2x + 3y = 0, x − 8y = 19 and 9x + 5y = 17 are concurrent.
13. Determine the value of a so that the three lines defined by x + 4y = 13, 5x − 4y = 17 and −3x + ay = 5
are concurrent.
14. Show that the following three lines are concurrent and state their point of concurrency: 3x − y + 3 = 0,
5x + 2y + 16 = 0 and 9x − 5y + 3 = 0.
15. Determine the values of d so that the three lines x + 4y = 9, 3x − 2y = −1 and 4x + 3y = d are not concurrent.
16. The graph shows cost, C, in dollars, versus distance x, in kilometres, C ($) B
for two different car rental companies A and B.
The cost models for each company are C = 300 + 0.05x and A
C = 250 + 0.25x.
a. Match each cost model to a company.
b. Explain what the gradient of each graph represents.
0 x (km)
c. Construct a linear rule in terms of x for y = CA − CB , the difference in
cost between Company A and Company B.
d. Sketch the graph of y = CA − CB , showing the intercepts with the coordinate axes.
e. Use your graph from part d to determine the number of kilometres when:
i. the costs of each company are the same
ii. the costs of Company A are cheaper than those of Company B.
17. The position of a boat at sea is measured as x km east and y km north of a lookout taken to be the
origin, (0, 0). Initially, at 6 am, the boat is 2 km due north of the lookout. After 1 hour, its position is 6 km
east and 3 km north of the lookout.
a. Write down the coordinates of the two positions of the boat and, assuming the boat travels in a straight
line, form the equation of its path.
b. The boat continues to sail on this linear path and at some time t hours after 6 am, its distance east of the
lookout is 6t km. At that time, show that its position north of the lookout is (t + 2) km.
c. Determine the coordinates of the position of the boat at 9.30 am.
d. The positions east and north of the lighthouse of a second boat, a large fishing trawler, sailing along a
4t − 1
linear path are given by x = and y = t respectively, where t is the time in hours since 6 am. Find the
3
coordinates of the positions of the trawler at 6 am and 7 am, and hence (or otherwise) find the Cartesian
equation of its linear path.
e. Show that the paths of the boat and the trawler contain a common point, and give the coordinates
of this point.
f. Sketch the paths of the boats on the same axes and explain whether the boat and the trawler collide.
18. At time t, a particle P1 moving on a straight line has coordinates given by x = t, y = 3 + 2t, while at the same
time a second particle P2 moving along another straight line has coordinates given by x = t + 1, y = 4t − 1.
a. Use CAS technology to sketch their paths simultaneously and so determine whether the particles collide.
b. State the coordinates of the common point on the two paths.
30 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 31 — #31
1.6.1 Collinearity
The gradient of a line has several applications. It determines whether lines are parallel or perpendicular, it
determines the angle a line makes with the horizontal, and it determines whether three or more points lie on the
same line.
Three or more points that lie on the same line are said to be collinear.
If mAB = mBC , then the line through the points A and B is parallel to the line C
B
through the points B and C. Since the point B is common to both AB and BC, the A
three points A, B and C must lie on the same line.
Alternatively, the equation of the line through two of the points can be used to test whether the third point also
lies on that line.
Show that the points A (−5, −3), B (−1, 7) and C (1, 12) are collinear.
THINK WRITE
1. Select two of the points. For the points A and B, let (x1 , y1 ) be (−5, −3)
and (x2 , y2 ) be (−1, 7).
y − y1
2. Calculate the gradient of AB. m= 2
x2 − x1
7 − (−3)
=
−1 − (−5)
10
=
4
5
∴ mAB =
2
3. Select another pair of points containing a For the points B and C, let (x1 , y1 ) be (−1, 7)
common point with the interval AB. and (x2 , y2 ) be (1, 12).
y − y1
4. Calculate the gradient of BC. m= 2
Note: The interval AC could equally as well x2 − x1
have been chosen. 12 − 7
m=
1 − (−1)
5
∴ mBC =
2
5. Compare the gradients to determine Since mAB = mBC and the point B is common, the
collinearity. three points lie on the same line, so they are collinear.
Angle of inclination
The gradient of a line is given by
m = tan 𝜃
where 𝜃 is measured in the positive (or anticlockwise) direction from the x-axis.
If the line is vertical, 𝜃 = 90°. If the line is horizontal, 𝜃 = 0°.
For oblique lines, the angle is either acute (0° < 𝜃 < 90°) or obtuse
(90° < 𝜃 < 180°), and a calculator is used to find 𝜃.
θ
When the gradient, m, is negative, the calculator gives a negative angle for
tan−1 m. That is, the angle has been measured in the negative or clockwise φ x
direction from the x-axis. The angle of inclination, 𝜃, is measured in the
anticlockwise direction. Thus, 𝜃 = 180 − 𝜓.
a. Calculate, correct to 2 decimal places, the angle made with the positive direction of the x-axis by
the line that passes through the points (−1, 2) and (2, 8).
b. Calculate the angle of inclination with the horizontal made by a line that has a gradient of −0.6.
c. Obtain the equation of the line that passes through the point (5, 3) at an angle of 45° to the
horizontal.
32 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 33 — #33
THINK WRITE
a. 1. Calculate the gradient of the line through the a. Points (−1, 2) and (2, 8)
given points. 8−2
m=
2 − (−1)
6
=
3
=2
2. Write down the relationship between the tan 𝜃 = m
angle and the gradient. ∴ tan 𝜃 = 2
y
1.6.3 Parallel lines
Parallel lines have the same gradient.
If two lines with gradients m1 and m2 are parallel, then m1 = m2 .
Each line would be inclined at the same angle to the horizontal.
θ θ
x
The diagram shows the line L1 passing through the points A and B and L1
the line L2 passing through the points A and D, with the angle BAD B
being a right angle.
Taking AC as 1 unit, the sides in the diagram are labelled with their m1
lengths. The side CB has length m1 . Because lengths must be positive,
θ C
the side CD is labelled as −m2 , since m2 < 0. A Horizontal
90° – θ
m
From the triangle ABC in the diagram, tan 𝜃 = 1 = m1 , and from the
1 –m2
1
triangle ACD in the diagram, tan 𝜃 = . θ
−m2 D
Hence, L2
1
m1 =
−m2
∴ m1 m2 = −1
• If two lines with gradients m1 and m2 are perpendicular, then the product of their gradients is −1.
One gradient is the negative reciprocal of the other.
• It follows that if m1 m2 = −1, then the two lines are perpendicular. This can be used to test for
perpendicularity.
THINK WRITE
34 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 35 — #35
ii. 1. State the gradient of a perpendicular line ii. The gradient of a perpendicular line will
to the given line. be the negative reciprocal of the gradient
of the given line.
5 2
If m1 = , then m2 = − .
2 5
Therefore, a line perpendicular to
2
2y − 5x = 4 has a gradient of − .
5
b. 1. Write down the gradients of each line. b. Lines: y = 4x and y = −0.25x
Gradients: m1 = 4, m2 = −0.25
2. Test the product of the gradients. m1 m2 = 4 × −0.25
∴ m1 m2 = −1
Therefore, the lines are perpendicular.
c. 1. State the gradient of the given line and c. For y = −3x − 9, its gradient is m1 = −3.
calculate the gradient of the perpendicular The perpendicular line has gradient
line. 1
m2 = − .
m1
Therefore, the perpendicular line has
1
gradient .
3
1
2. Use the point–gradient form to obtain the m = and (x1 , y1 ) = (1, 1)
equation of the required line. 3
y − y1 = m (x − x1 )
1
y − 1 = (x − 1)
3
3 (y − 1) = 1 (x − 1)
3y − 3 = x − 1
3y = x + 2
1 2
y = x+
3 3
3. State the answer. The required line has equation
1 2
y= x+ .
3 3
1.6 Exercise
Technology free
1. WE14 Show that the points A (−3, −12), B (0, 3) and C (4, 23) are collinear.
2. Determine whether the points A (−4, 13), B (7, −9) and C (12, −19) are collinear.
3. Find the value of b if the three points (3, b), (4, 2b) and (8, 5 − b) are collinear.
4. For the points P (−6, −8), Q (6, 4) and R (−32, 34), find the equation of the line through P and Q, and hence
determine if the three points are collinear.
5. Explain whether or not the points A (−15, −95), B (12, 40) and C (20, 75) may be joined to form a triangle.
10. Find the coordinates of the x-intercept of the line that passes through the point (8, −2) and is parallel to the
line 2y − 4x = 7.
11. WE15 a. Calculate, correct to 2 decimal places, the angle made with the positive direction of the x-axis by
the line that passes through the points (1, −8) and (5, −2).
b. Calculate the angle of inclination with the horizontal made by a line that has a gradient of −2.
c. Obtain the equation of the line that passes through the point (2, 7) at an angle of 135° to the horizontal.
12. a. Determine the gradient of the line that passes through the point (1, 2) at an angle of 40° to the horizontal.
b. A line passes through the x-axis inclined at an angle of 145° with the positive direction of the x-axis.
Calculate the gradient of this line.
13. a. Calculate the angle of inclination with the horizontal made by the line that has a gradient of 0.5.
b. Calculate the angle of inclination with the horizontal made by the line that has a gradient of −0.5.
14. Calculate the magnitudes of the angles the following lines make with the positive direction of the x-axis,
expressing your answers correct to 2 decimal places where appropriate.
a. y
(3, 9)
(–2, 0) θ
0 x
36 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 37 — #37
15. Calculate the angle of inclination with the horizontal made by each of the lines whose gradients are 5 and 4
respectively, and hence find the magnitude of the acute angle between these two lines.
16. Determine the equation of the line that passes through the point (−6, 12) and makes an angle of tan−1 (1.5)
with the horizontal.
17. A line L cuts the x-axis at the point A where x = 4, and is inclined at an angle of 123.69° to the positive
direction of the x-axis.
a. Form the equation of the line L, specifying its gradient to 1 decimal place.
b. Form the equation of a second line, K, that passes through the same point A at right angles to the line L.
c. State the distance between the y-intercepts of K and L.
b. Find the value of c if the line through the points (2c, −c) and (c, −c − 2) makes an angle of 45° with the
horizontal.
c. Find the value of d so the line containing the points (d + 1, d − 1) and (4, 8) is:
i. parallel to the line that cuts the x-axis at x = 7 and the y-axis at y = −2
ii. parallel to the x-axis
iii. perpendicular to the x-axis.
d. The angle between the two lines with gradients −1.25 and 0.8 respectively has a magnitude of 𝛼°.
Calculate the value of 𝛼.
19. Given the points P (−2, − 3), Q (2, 5), R (6, 9) and S (2, 1), show that PQRS is a parallelogram. State
whether PQRS is a rectangle.
20. Determine the equation of the line that passes through the point of intersection of the lines 2x − 3y = 18 and
5x + y = 11, and is perpendicular to the line y = 8.
(6, 0)
0 x
6
–3 (0, –3)
x x x
A. y = −3 B. y = −3 C. y = 2x − 3 D. y = −2x − 3 E. y = − +3
2 2 2
TOPIC 1 Lines and linear relationships 37
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 38 — #38
0 x1 x¯ x2 x
38 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 39 — #39
Hence, the coordinates of the midpoint of a line segment are found by averaging the coordinates of the end
points.
Calculate the coordinates of the midpoint of the line segment joining the points (−3, 5) and (7, −8).
THINK WRITE
x1 + x2 y1 + y2
1. Average the x- and y-coordinates of the x= y=
end points. 2 2
(−3) + 7 5 + (−8)
= =
2 2
4 −3
= =
2 2
=2 = −1.5
2. Write the coordinates as an ordered pair. Therefore, the midpoint is (2, −1.5).
Determine the equation of the perpendicular bisector of the line segment joining the points A (6, 3)
and B (−8, 5).
THINK WRITE
6 + (−8) 3+5
3. Calculate the coordinates of the midpoint of x= y=
the line segment. 2 2
−2 8
= =
2 2
= −1 =4
The midpoint is (−1, 4).
Point (−1, 4); gradient m = 7
This could
√ be expressed as the formula for the distance between two points:
dAB = (x2 − x1 )2 + (y2 − y1 )2 , where dAB represents the distance between the points A and B.
40 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 41 — #41
Calculate the length of the line segment joining the points A (−2, −5) and B (1, 3).
THINK WRITE
√
1. Write the distance formula. dAB = (x2 − x1 )2 + (y2 − y1 )2
2. Substitute the coordinates of the two points. A (−2, −5) and B (1, 3)
Note: It does not matter which point is Let A be (x1 , y1 ) and B be (x2 , y2 ).
labelled (x1 , y1 ) and which (x2 , y2 ). √
dAB = (1 − (−2))2 + (3 − (−5))2
√
= (3)2 + (8)2
√
= 9 + 64
√
= 73
√
3. State the answer. By choice, both the exact Therefore, the length of AB is 73 ≃ 8.54 units.
surd value and its approximate value to
2 decimal places have been given.
Resources
Resourceseses
Interactivity Midpoint of a line segment and the perpendicular bisector (int-2553)
1.7 Exercise
Technology free
1. WE17 Calculate the coordinates of the midpoint of the line segment joining the points (12, 5) and (−9, −1).
2. Determine the coordinates of the midpoint of the line segment joining the points:
a. (−2, 8) and (12, −2) b. (1, 0) and (−5, 4).
3. Determine the coordinates of the midpoint of the line segment joining the points:
a. (7, 3) and (−4, 2) b. (24, 12) and (16, 12).
4. MC M is the midpoint of the line segment AN. Given that M has coordinates (5, 6) and A is the point (3, 7),
5. If the midpoint of PQ has coordinates (3, 0) and Q is the point (−10, 10), find the coordinates of point P.
6. Determine the equation of the line that has a gradient of −3 and passes through the midpoint of the segment
joining (5, −4) and (1, 0).
7. Given the points A (3, 0), B (9, 4), C (5, 6) and D (−1, 2), show that AC and BD bisect each other.
8. WE18 Determine the equation of the perpendicular bisector of the line segment joining the points A (−4, 4)
and B (−3, 10).
9. Determine the equation of the perpendicular bisector of the line segment joining the points A (−6, 0) and
B (2, 4).
10. Determine the equation of the perpendicular bisector of the line segment joining the points A (1, 2) and
B (−3, 5).
11. Given that the line ax + by = c is the perpendicular bisector of the line segment CD where C is the point
(−2, −5) and D is the point (2, 5), find the smallest non-negative values possible for the integers
a, b and c.
12. WE19 Calculate the length of the line segment joining the points (6, −8) and (−4, −5).
13. Calculate the distance between the points (10, −3) and (−2, 6).
15. Triangle ABC has vertices A (−2, 0), B (2, 3) and C (3, 0). Determine which of its sides has the
shortest length.
Technology active
16. Calculate the distance between the point (3, 10) and the midpoint of the line segment AB where A is the
point (−1, 1) and B is the point (6, −1). Give the answer correct to 2 decimal places.
17. If the distance between the points (p, 8) and (0, −4) is 13 units, find two possible values for p.
42 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 43 — #43
22. The diagram shows a main highway through a country town. The section of this highway running between
a petrol station at P and a restaurant at R can be considered a straight line. Relative to a fixed origin, the
coordinates of the petrol station and restaurant are P (3, 7) and R (5, 3) respectively. Distances are measured
in kilometres.
Highway
Petrol station
7 P (3, 7)
5
B
North
4
Restaurant
R (5, 3)
3 H (2, 3.5)
0 1 2 3 4 5 6
East
a. Calculate how far apart the petrol station and restaurant are. Give your answer correct to 1 decimal place.
b. Form the equation of the straight line PR.
Ada is late for their waitressing job at the restaurant and is still at home at the point H (2, 3.5). There is no
direct route to the restaurant from Ada’s home, but there is a bicycle track that goes straight to the nearest
point B on the highway. Ada decides to ride to point B and then to travel along the highway from B to the
restaurant.
c. Form the equation of the line through H perpendicular to PR.
d. Hence, find the coordinates of B, the closest point on the highway from Ada’s home.
e. If Ada’s average speed is 10 km/h, find how long, to the nearest minute, it takes Ada to reach the
restaurant from home.
23. a. Using CAS technology, construct the perpendicular bisectors of each of the three sides of the triangle.
Write down what you notice about the bisectors. Repeat this procedure using other triangles. State
whether your observation appears to hold for these triangles.
b. For the triangle formed by joining the points O (0, 0) , A (6, 0) , B (4, 4), find the point of intersection of the
perpendicular bisectors of each side. Check your answer algebraically.
24. a. Using CAS technology, construct the line segments joining each vertex to the midpoint of the opposite
side (these are called medians). Write down what you notice about the line segments. Repeat this
procedure using other triangles. State whether your observation appears to hold for these triangles.
b. For the triangle formed by joining the points O (0, 0) , A (6, 0) and B (4, 4), find the point of intersection of
the medians drawn to each side. Check your answer algebraically.
A
(–7, 0) 0 x
B
(–3, –3)
A. 2 B. 13 C. 7 D. 5 E. 25
44 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 45 — #45
1.8 Review
1.8.1 Summary
doc-37016
Hey students! Now that it's time to revise this topic, go online to:
Access the Review your Watch teacher-led Practise exam
topic summary results videos questions
1.8 Exercise
Technology free: short answer
1. Solve the following equations for x.
2x − 1 3 − 2x 3
a. 3 (5x − 2) + 5 (3x − 2) = 8 (x − 2) b. + =
5 4 20
5x − b 2x
c. ax + 3c = 3a + cx d. − =2
2b b
2. Solve the following system of equations for x and y.
2x + y = 6
5x − 2y = 24
6. Determine the equation of the line through the points (−4, 6) and (2, −2).
9. MC A calculator purchased for $200 depreciates each year by an amount of $25. The value, V, of the
11. MC For the points (−1, −2), (4, 3) and (9, b) to be collinear, b would equal:
A. −3 B. −2 C. −1 D. 8 E. 10
x y
12. MC The angle of inclination to the positive direction of the x-axis made by the line with equation − =1
3 2
is closest to:
A. 26.6° B. 33.7° C. 56.3° D. 123.7° E. 146.3°
14. MC The midpoint of a line segment AB is (3, −5). If A is the point (13, 11), then the coordinates of B are:
A. (8, 3) B. (−23, −27) C. (23, 27) D. (−7, −21) E. (7, 21)
15. MC The value of a such that there would be no point of intersection between the two lines ay + 3x = 4 and
2y + 4x = 3 is:
8
A. 2 B. 1.5 C. D. −0.5 E. −2
3
16. MC The distance between the points (−3, 5) and (−6, 12) is:
√ √ √ √
A. 4 B. 40 C. 58 D. 370 E. 388
a. Find the distance Tenzin travels from school to the golf range if the
3
journey takes 45 minutes.
At the golf range Tenzin is trying to improve their putting. A set of 2
Cartesian coordinates can be imagined to be marked so that Tenzin will
be aiming to hit the ball at the point T (1.5, 4) into the hole at the origin 1
(0, 0).
b. If all units are measured in metres, state how far Tenzin’s golf ball is 0 x
–2 –1 1 2
from the hole. Give your answer correct to 2 decimal places.
–1
c. State the equation of the straight-line path Tenzin’s golf ball needs to
travel along for the ball to reach the hole. –2
d. In fact, Tenzin hits the golf ball along the path with equation
6x − 2y = 1.
i. Sketch this path.
ii. Determine the equation of the line through (0, 0) perpendicular
to this path and hence find, to the nearest centimetre, the closest
distance of the golf ball’s path to the hole at (0, 0).
46 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 47 — #47
18. A small fireworks rocket travels along a path that can be considered to be a straight line. On a Cartesian
set of x- and y-axes where the units are in metres, the x-coordinates give the horizontal distance the rocket
travels and the y-coordinates give the height of the rocket above the ground.
The fireworks rocket is launched from a point S (0, 1) at an angle of 𝜃° with the horizontal. The fireworks
explode on reaching a point E, which is at a height of 10 metres above the ground.
y
E
(Height of rocket)
10 m
S θ°
(0, 1)
(Horizontal distance x
travelled)
a. i. The first rocket is launched at an angle of 45° to the horizontal. Find the equation of its path and the
coordinates of point E.
ii. After the explosion, part of the debris travels from point E along a line perpendicular to the rocket’s
path. Find the equation of this path and work out how far horizontally from E the debris reaches the
ground.
b. The angle at which the rockets are launched from S (0, 1) is varied and the fireworks explode at E (k, 10),
k > 0. Show that the equation of the paths of all possible rockets is given by 9x − ky + k = 0.
c. i. Let r be the horizontal distance from E at which the debris travelling on a line perpendicular to the
path SE reaches the ground. Form an expression for r in terms of k.
ii. It is desirable for the debris not to be too widely scattered. Find the possible values for k such that
4 ≤ r ≤ 6.
19. Rain water is collected in a water tank. On 1 April the tank contained 1000 litres of water. Ten days later it
contained 1250 litres. Assume the amount of water increases uniformly.
a. Find the rate of increase in litres per day.
b. Form the linear relationship between the volume V litres of water in the tank t days after 1 April.
c. State how much water the linear model predicts should have been in the tank on 30 March.
d. The tank needs replacing and quotes are obtained from two companies. The Latasi company charges $500
for materials plus $26 per hour of construction. The Natano company charges $600 for materials plus $18
per hour of construction.
i. Form linear models for the costs for each company, defining the symbols used.
ii. Determine when the costs are the same for each company and calculate this cost.
iii. Sketch both cost models on the same axes.
iv. It is estimated that the construction should take approximately 8 hours of work. Determine which
company could do the job at a cheaper cost.
20. Three friends visit their local supermarket to buy snacks for a party. One friend buys 3 bags of chips, 1 bag
of lollies and 2 boxes of biscuits. The second friend buys 2 bags of chips, 2 bags of lollies and 4 boxes of
biscuits. The third friend buys 1 bag of chips, 3 bags of lollies and 3 boxes of biscuits. The three friends
spent a total of $24.10, $33.40 and $29.50 respectively.
Determine:
a. the cost of one bag of chips
b. the cost of one bag of lollies
c. the cost of one box of biscuits.
y
B
(1, 5)
θ
0 x
(–1, –1)
A
2x − 3y − 1 = 0 is
A. 2x − 3y = 0 B. 3x + 2y − 5 = 0 C. 3x − 2y − 13 = 0
D. 2x + 3y − 1 = 0 E. 2x − 3y − 12 = 0
More exam questions are available online.
48 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 49 — #49
13. a. 8 and 10 2. C
b. 21 3. E
c. 12, 13 and 14
1.4 Linear graphs and their equations
d. Length is 20 cm; width is 4 cm.
e. Height is 45 cm. 1.4 Exercise
14. a. The profit for the sale of n books is P = 2.3n − 100. 4
1. m=−
b. 44 books 3
15. 25 phone covers 2
2. a. 2 b.
16. 184 drinks 3
1 7
c. − d. −
1.2 Exam questions 3 5
Note: Mark allocations are available with the fully worked 3. a. m = −2.5 b. m=5
solutions online. c. m=0 d. Undefined
1. x = a + b
4. Show both gradients equal 1; sample responses can be
2. E found in the worked solutions in the online resources.
3. x ≤ 5
5. a. y c. y
y = 4x
y= x –5
(1, 4) 2
0 (10, 0) x
(0, 0)
0 x
(0, –5)
d. y
b. y (0, 8)
y + 3x = 8
(0, 3)
3x + 2y = 6
( )
8, 0
3
(2, 0) 0 x
0 x
e. y y = 4x
(1, 4)
c. y (0, 0)
0 x
(0, 2) y=2
f. y
0 x
y = – 0.5x
0 (1, –0.5) x
6. a. y
y = 3x – 6
(2, 0)
0 x
7. a. y
y = 3x + 8
(0, –6)
(0, 8)
b. y
8
y = –4x + 1 ( )
– –, 0
3
(0, 1) (0.25, 0) 0 x
0 x
b. y
4y – x + 4 = 0
(4, 0)
0 x
(0, –1)
50 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 51 — #51
c. y c. y = −8
(0, 6)
y (0, 2) y=2
6x + 5y = 30
0 x
(5, 0)
x y = −8
0
(0, −8) (10, −8)
12. a. y = −5x + 37 b. 3y − 2x + 10 = 0
c. 4y + 7x + 36 = 0 d. y = −0.8x + 0.2
e. 3y − 10x = 34 f. y = −2x + 10
d. y
5
3y – 5x = 0 13. a. m = 2, (0, −8) b.
(3, 5) 3
3
(0, 0) c. m = , (0, 1) d. i, ii and iii are parallel.
4
0 x
4 8
14. a. m=− ,c=4 b. m = , c = 20
5 3
1 3 3
e. y c. m = , c = d. m = 0, c =
6 2 2
(12, 0) y
15. a.
0 x
(0, –8)
x – 3y
–
2
– =6
4
( )
11, 0
–
4
0 x
f. y ( ) 11
0, ––
2
(0, 0) b. y x=5
0 x
(7, –6)
6x (5, 0)
y =– –
7 0 x
8. a. y = −2x − 13 b. 7y + 2x = 1
5
c. y = −1.5x + 6 d. m = ; (0, 3)
6
9. y = 10
c. y
10. a. y = 5x + 2 b. y = −2x − 1
c. y = 3x − 1 d. y = −5x
e. x + 2y + 1 = 0 f. 3x + 4y − 11 = 0
5x 0 x
11. a. i. y =
4 (0, –3) y = –3
ii. y = −3x + 9
2 q
y= x−2
iii. 16. a. a = −6 b. y= x
3 p
1
iv. y = − x − 1 17. a. C = 30 + 1.5t
2 b.
b. x = −12
C
y 60
(10, 45)
(−12, 8)
C = 30 + 1.5t
x = −12
30
0 t
x 10
0
(−12, −1) m = 1.5
20
C = 20
(––13 , 0)
10 ( 1
13 – , 20
3 ) 18. a. No collision b. (4, 11)
52 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition
“c01LinesAndLinearRelationships_PrintPDF” — 2023/3/9 — 6:03 — page 53 — #53
4 5 11. a = 2, b = 5, c = 0
8. a.
5
b.
12 √
12. 109 ≈ 10.44
c. 1 d. 0.2 × −5 = −1
13. 15
√ √ √ √
9. a. −5x + 7y = 42 b. 20x + 15y = −28 14. a. 72 = 6 2 b. 52 = 2 13
c. 12x + 8y = −1 d. x + 3y = 0
15. BC
10. (9, 0)
16. 10.01
11. a. 56.31° b. 116.57° c. y = −x + 9
17. p = ± 5
12. a. 0.839 b. −0.7 18. a. 10 units b.(−10, 6) )
(
13. a. 26.6° b. 153.4° 3
c. 4y − 3x = 54 d. −5, 9
14. a. 60.95° b. 143.13° c. 90° 4
d. 98.13° 19. a. 23 units
15. 78.69°, 75.96°, 2.73° Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions
b.
2. a. 2. E
y
L1 3. a. 1
1.8 Review
0 (3, 0) x
1.8 Exercise
L2
Technology free: short answer
b. y = 3x − 9 1. a. x = 0 b. x = 4
3. D c. x = 3 d. x = 5b
2. x = 4, y = −2
1.7 Bisection and lengths of line segments 3. a. x≥1 b. x < −3
1.7 Exercise 4. y
3x – 4y = 24
1. (1.5, 2)
0 (8, 0) x
2. a. (5, 3) b. (−2, 2)
3. a. (1.5, 2.5) b. (20, 12)
(0, –6)
4. C
5. P (16, −10)
5. a. 7y − 2x = 66
6. y = −3x + 7
2y + 7x = 28
b.
7. (4, 3) is midpoint of both AC and BD.
c. y = 3x − 25
8. 2x + 12y = 77 4 2
9. y = −2x − 2 6. y = − x +
3 3
10. 6y − 8x − 29 = 0
( )
1, 0
-
6
6x – 2y =1
0 x
(0, –0.5)
x
ii. y = − ; 16 cm
3
18. a. i. y = x + 1; E (9, 10)
ii. y = −x + 19; 10 m
b. Sample responses can be found in the worked solutions
in the online resources.
90
c. i. r =
k
ii. 15 ≤ k ≤ 22.5
19. a. 25 litres/day
b. t is the independent variable; V = 1000 + 25t
c. 950 litres
d. i. CL = 500 + 26t; CN = 600 + 18t; cost is C dollars,
construction time is t hours.
ii. 12.5 hours; $825
iii. C
900 (12.5, 825)
800 Natano
700
Latasi
600
500
400
300
200
100
0 t
5 10 15
iv. Latasi Company is cheaper.
20. a. $3.70
b. $4.20
c. $4.40
54 Jacaranda Maths Quest 11 Mathematical Methods VCE Units 1 & 2 Third Edition