Elementary Algebra

Published by Cengage Learning
ISBN 10: 1285194055
ISBN 13: 978-1-28519-405-9

Chapter 8 - Coordinate Geometry and Linear Systems - 8.3 - Slope of a Line - Problem Set 8.3 - Page 351: 76

Answer

The answer is below.

Work Step by Step

There are two ways to think of this. First of all, there is the mathematical explanation. When the line is vertical, it is the same as dividing by 0, which is undefined. We can also think of this in terms of practical purposes. If you are climbing up a vertical wall, the slope is infinite, for you are only going up and are not going anywhere in the x direction.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.