Question

What is an equation for the line in the xy-plane that passes through the point (-4,5) and is perpendicular to the line with the equation y=1/2x +5

Answer 1

y = - 2x - 3

Explanation:

First, we know that when a line is perpendicular it is the negative reciprocal of the slope

The slope of the line you gave is 1/2 so the negative reciprocal would be -2

The new line is y = -2x + b

Now, to find b you have to plug in the point

5 = -2(-4) + b

5 = 8 + b

b = -3

So, the line would be y = -2x - 3