Question

The equation of line WX is y = −2x − 5. Write an equation of a line perpendicular to line WX in slope-intercept form that contains point (−1, −2).

Answer 1

Y=(1/2)-3

Explanation:

The slope of line WX is -2 or 1/2

Answer 2

y = (1/2)x - 3

Explanation:

The slope of line WX is -2. Therefore, the slope of a line perpendicular to line WX is the negative reciprocal of -2, or +1/2.

Substitute -2 for y, -1 for x and 1/2 for m in y = mx + b, for the purpose of finding b:

-2 = (1/2)(-1) + b. Multiply all terms by 2 to eliminate the fraction:

-4 = -1 + b. Then b = -3, and the desired equation is y = (1/2)x - 3.