Question

Determine the equation of the perpendicular bisector of a segment with endpoints (–3, –1) and (3, 5).

Answer 1

y = -x + 2.

Explanation:

The slope of the line joining the 2 points = (5 - -1)/(3- -3)

= 6/6 = 1

So the slope of the perpendicular bisector = -1/1 = -1.

The centre of the line segment is at the point (-3+3)/2, (-1+5)/2

= (0, 2)

So the required equation is:

y - 2 = -1(x - 0)

y - 2 = -x

y = -x + 2.