Write an equation of a line that is perpendicular to the line y = 5x+9

Question

Underneath of the question it says:

"(Remember: perpendicular slopes are opposite reciprocals. m=2/3 and m =-3/2 is an example of the slopes of perpendicular lines.)"

 

 

Can anyone help me with this question on my homework? Thank you :)

Answer 1

the slope of the line y = 5x + 9 is 5. So, the slope of the perpendicular line is -1/m or -1/5. Now, you have the slope of the perpendicular line. Lastly, pick any y-intercept. Let's try 7. So,

 

y = (-1/5)x + 7