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What is the slope of a line perpendicular to the line whose equation is x-2y=-8. Fully simplify your answer.

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Answer:

-2

Explanation:

First we find the slope of the equation. Then to find the slope of a perpendicular line we take the negative reciprocal (opposite sign and flip)

x - 2y = -8

Subtract x.

-2y = -x - 8

Divide by -2.

y = -x/-2 -8/-2

y = 1/2 x + 4

The slope of the given line is 1/2.

A perpendicular line has the slope:

-2

1/2 is positive so we take the opposite sign: negative

Flip over 1/2 and get 2/1. This is 2.

The negative reciprocal of 1/2 is -2.

User Marius I
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