What do \( m \) and \( c \) represent in the equation of a straight line \( y=m x+c \) ?

In the equation of a straight line \( y = mx + c \), \( m \) represents the slope of the line, which indicates how steep the line is. A positive \( m \) means the line rises as you move to the right, while a negative \( m \) means it falls. On the other hand, \( c \) is the y-intercept, which is the point where the line crosses the y-axis. This means that when \( x \) is zero, \( y \) equals \( c \). To visualize this better, imagine you're hiking up a hill! If the steepness of the hill (that’s your slope, \( m \)) is just right, you can reach the top with ease. Now, the spot where you start (the y-intercept, \( c \)) gives you a sense of elevation at your starting point on the y-axis! It’s like knowing how high above sea level your trailhead is before you embark on your adventure.