Question

Without calculating, state whether the slope of the line through the points is positive, negative, zero, or undefined. (2,5),(4,1)

Short answer

The slope of the line through the points (2,5) and (4,1) is negative.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Given Points

The two points given are (2,5) and (4,1). The first value in each pair represents the x-coordinate, and the second value represents the y-coordinate.

Compare the 'y' values

In moving from point (2,5) to (4,1), observe the change in Y-coordinates. The Y-coordinate decreases, going from 5 in the first point down to 1 in the second point.

Determine the Slope Type

Since the y-value decreases from the first point to the second, the slope of the line through these points is negative.