Write an equation for a line perpendicular to 4 y − 20 x = − 4 and passing through the point (-15,4)

Question

Write an equation for a line perpendicular to and passing through the point (-15,4)

Answer 1

First, find the slope.

4y - 20x = -4

4y = 20x - 4

y = 5x - 1

The slope of the given line is 5. The slope of the perpendicular line is the negative reciprocal of the slope of the given line.

m = -1/5

Next, write the equation in point slope form using m and the given point.

y - y₁ = m(x - x₁)

m = -1/5

x₁ = -15

y₁ = 4

Plug in the numbers and get your equation.