If the slope is negative is the rise OR the run negative?

1 Answer
George C.
Jul 6, 2015

Either but not both.

Explanation:

If you have two points (x_1, y_1)(x1,y1) and (x_2, y_2)(x2,y2) on a line, then the slope mm of the line is given by the formula:

m = m=rise//run=(Delta y)/(Delta x)=(y_2 - y_1)/(x_2 - x_1)

Suppose m < 0

If the rise is positive, then the run must be negative in order that
rise / run < 0.

If the rise is negative, then the run must be positive in order that
rise / run < 0.

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