Parametrization help?

Question

Find a parameterization for the line segment with initial point (-5,3) terminal point (7,11) and with 0≤t≤1

Any help would be appreciated. Please explain very completely, as I never learned how to do any of this. 10 points to the best answer and thanks so much!

Answer 1

This generally involves coming up with some X(t) and Y(t) that satisfies a shape.  The starting X is -5, so X(0)=-5.  The ending X is 7, so X(0)=7.  Because we're talking about a line segment, X(t) must be a linear function:  X(t) = mt+b.  Use the supplied values to find m and b, and thus X(t).  Now, repeat the whole process for Y(t) with 3 and 11.