Question

Find the equation of the line that passes through point (4, 1) and is perpendicular to the given line.

y = 1/2x − 9/4

Answer 1

Answer: y = -2x - 3

Explanation:

Start with:

y = mx + b

You know the values for 3 of the variables. x = 4 and y = 1, from the given point, and m = -2, since it is the opposite of the reciprocal of the slope of the given line. Plug them in:

1 = (-2)(4) + b

1 = -8 + b

-7 = b

Plug in for m and b:

y = -2x - 7