Ask A Scientist Mathematics Archive

Question: I am looking for origin of the use of "m" for slope in the 
"y=mx+b" form of, a linear equation.  While you are at it perhapsexplains why 
the "b" was used for the y-coordinate of the y-intercept.  I am of the opinion 
that "m" was used by Descartes for montee, i.e. "going up".  Any justification 
for that opinion?
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I am trying to find your answer in a book called History of 
Mathematics, but I am still looking for the answer (it is a very thick book).  
I will try to find it soon, but you may want to check your local library for 
any book relating to the history of math.  You would be surprised by how many 
are out there.
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