Write an equation for a line perpendicular to y = − 4 x − 2 and passing through the point (-8,1)

Answer 1

The slope of the line y = -4x - 2 is -4, so the slope of the perpendicular line is the negative reciprocal, 1/4. Since this line must also pass through (-8,1), the equation of the perpendicular line is y - 1 = 1/4 (x - (-8)), or, y - 1 = 1/4 (x + 8). Thus y - 1 = (1/4)x + 2, i.e., y = (1/4)x + 3.