A linear equation is a mathematical statement that shows a relationship between two variables, typically represented as x and y. It can be written in the form y = mx + b, where m is the slope, indicating the steepness of the line, and b is the y-intercept, the point where the line crosses the y-axis. Linear equations graph as straight lines on a coordinate plane. These equations are used in various fields, including science, economics, and engineering, to model real-world situations. Solving a linear equation involves finding the value of the variable that makes the equation true, often using methods like substitution or elimination.