how do you find the equation of a line perpendicular to another line at a point?

The gradient of the perpendicular line is the negative reciprocal of the gradient of the original line. For example if the gradient of the original line is 4, the gradient of the perpendicular line is -1/4. If the gradient of the original line is 1/2 , the gradient of the perpendicular line is -2 (=-2/1). The equation of the perpendicular line can then be found by substituting the gradient (m) and the given point (x,y) into the equation y=mx+c.(the reciprocal of a number is 1/that number)

FG
Answered by Frankie G. Maths tutor

3243 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

the function f is such that f(x)=(2x-7)/4. Fnd f(-7) and the inverse of the function.


A (0,2) and B (6,5) are points on the straight line ABCD. AB=BC=CD. Work out the co-ordinates of D.


Write 𝑥²+6𝑥+11 in the form (𝑥+a)²+b.


Given a graph of y = f(x) how do you sketch a graph of y = f(x)+4, y = f(x-5), y = -f(x+4) or any other similar transformations


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning