Finding Intercepts

Part of Gradient & Intercept · Section 5 of 9

Deep DiveUnit: GraphsGCSE

This deep dive covers Finding Intercepts within Gradient & Intercept for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Gradient & Intercept in Graphs for GCSE Mathematics with 10 exam-style questions and 20 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 5 of 9 in this topic. Use this deep dive to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.

Finding Intercepts

Y-intercept Methods

Method How To Example
From equation Set x = 0 y = 3x + 5 → y = 5
From y = mx + c Read the c value y = 2x - 3 → c = -3
From graph Find where line crosses y-axis Read coordinates

X-intercept Methods

Method How To Example
From equation Set y = 0, solve for x 0 = 3x + 5 → x = -5/3
From graph Find where line crosses x-axis Read coordinates

Practice questions for Gradient & Intercept

The gradient of a straight line is calculated by:

  • A. change in x ÷ change in y
  • B. change in y ÷ change in x
  • C. change in y × change in x
  • D. sum of y-values ÷ sum of x-values
1 markfoundation

A graph shows the distance (km) travelled by a car plotted against time (hours). The line has gradient 80. What does the gradient represent in this context?

2 markshigher

Quick recall flashcards

What is the y-intercept?
The point where a line crosses the y-axis. Found by setting x = 0.
What is the x-intercept?
The point where a line crosses the x-axis. Found by setting y = 0.

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