Free · Mathematical relationships
Linear Interpolation through Two Points
Two points with distinct x coordinates define a line. Interpolation uses its value between the points; outside that interval the same calculation is extrapolation.
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Calculator inputs
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How to use this calculator
- Enter the known values in the units shown. Results update as you type.
- Where results are editable, change one to solve backwards. Lock a value to hold it fixed.
- Use the worked example to check the method. Reset restores the starting fields.
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Inputs and results stay in this browser tab. Bookify does not upload or store the values you enter.
Formula and method
With x1 = 1, y1 = 3, x2 = 5, y2 = 11, x3 = 3, slope = 2, intercept = 1, y3 = 7.
m=(y₂−y₁)/(x₂−x₁); y=mx+b
Worked example
Enter these known values and leave the other values blank.
- x₁
- 1
- y₁
- 3
- x₂
- 5
- y₂
- 11
- x₃
- 3
- y₃
- 7
- m
- 2
- b
- 1
Assumptions and limitations
- All x coordinates must be distinct in this workflow. A horizontal line evaluates forward at a supplied x but does not determine an unknown x.
- Two points with distinct x coordinates define a line. Interpolation uses its value between the points; outside that interval the same calculation is extrapolation.
- Enter enough independent values and clear the quantity being solved. Locks preserve known values; contradictory inputs can make the system inconsistent. Unit controls convert physical quantities rather than merely changing their labels.
- Displayed precision is numerical rounding, not an estimate of measurement uncertainty.
Common questions
How do I solve for a missing quantity?
Clear the missing value, enter the independent known values and retain compatible units. A nonunique inverse may require another known value.
What relationship is used?
m=(y₂−y₁)/(x₂−x₁); y=mx+b
References
A horizontal line can be evaluated at a supplied x coordinate. Equal y values cannot determine an unknown x, but they do not invalidate consistent forward interpolation.
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