What does 'b' represent in the slope-intercept formula?

In the slope-intercept formula, which is typically expressed as ( y = mx + b ), 'b' represents the y-intercept of the equation. The y-intercept is the point at which the line crosses the y-axis on a graph. This occurs when the value of x is zero. Thus, 'b' indicates the value of y at this intersection point.

Understanding the role of 'b' is crucial for graphing linear equations and interpreting their systems. While 'm' represents the slope of the line—indicating its steepness and direction—'b' specifically identifies where the line begins on the y-axis, providing a starting point for plotting the graph. This foundational aspect of linear equations is essential for solving problems involving linear relationships in various contexts.