Finding the x-intercept, step by step

The x-intercept is where a line crosses the x-axis.

The question

the x-intercept of 3x + 5y = −15

3x + 5y = −15y = 0
3x = −15
x = −5
  1. The x-intercept is where the line crosses the x-axis, and there y = 0. Put y = 0 into 3x + 5y = −15.
  2. The y-term disappears, leaving 3x = −15.
  3. Divide by 3: −15 ÷ 3 = −5 — so the x-intercept is −5.

How it works.

  1. 01

    The x-intercept is where the line crosses the x-axis, and there y = 0. Put y = 0 into 3x + 5y = −15.

  2. 02

    The y-term disappears, leaving 3x = −15.

  3. 03

    Divide by 3: −15 ÷ 3 = −5 — so the x-intercept is −5.