Why is the inverse of a gradient -1/x?

Because the value, x and its inverse, -1/x should multiply together to give -1. This is proof that two lines are perpendicular (or having the same magnitude of gradient but opposite signs +/- ).

SR

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Mechanics (M1): Particle moving on a straight line with constant acceleration (Relationships of the 5 Key Formulae)


How can I calculate the standard deviation of a data set?


How do I differentiate something of the form a^x?


A car is moving on an inclined road with friction acting upon it. When it is moving up the road at a speed v the engine is working at power 3P and when it is moving down the road at v the engine is working at a power P. Find the value of P.