Parameter Math Example 4

Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.

Example 4

easy
In y=2x+by = 2x + b, is bb a variable or a parameter?

Solution

  1. 1
    xx and yy are variables (they change along the line).
  2. 2
    bb is a parameter (it is fixed for any specific line and determines the yy-intercept).

Answer

bb is a parameter.
A parameter is fixed for a given instance of the equation but can vary between instances (different lines).

About Parameter

A parameter is a quantity in a mathematical expression that remains constant for a particular case but can change between cases. For example, in y = mx + b, the slope m and intercept b are parameters — each choice of m and b gives a different line.

Learn more about Parameter →

More Parameter Examples

Example 1 medium

In the family of lines [formula], what role does [formula] play?

Example 2 hard

For what value of the parameter [formula] does [formula] have the solution [formula]?

Example 3 medium

In the family of lines [formula], find the slope when the line passes through [formula].

Example 5 medium

The quadratic [formula] has a zero at [formula]. Find [formula].

← All Parameter Examples Parameter Concept