Hi Jesse,
Perpendicular means opposite (math term: negative reciprocal) slopes. We can use the slope-intercept equation:
y=mx + b
The slope you were given was -5, so a perpendicular slope would be:
m= 1/5.
You can now substitute the m, x and y values into y=mx + b and solve for b.
x= -3
y=1
1 = (1/5)(-3) + b
1 = -3/5 + b
b= 8/5
Your equation is:
y = (1/5)x + 8/5
I hope this helps.
Joshua L.
tutor
Jesse, If you prefer this form, it’s y-y1=m(x-x1), y1=y-coordinate, x1=x-coordinate, m=perpendicular slope: x1= -3, y1=1, m= 1/5 Equation: y-1=(1/5)(x+3).
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01/25/24
James S.
tutor
There is an error in the point-slope form of the equation above. It should be y-1=(1/5)(x+3) [in other words, the slope us positive, not negative).]
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01/28/24
James S.
tutor
The problem asks for an equation, not a specific type of equation. Any form that is equivalent should be considered correct..
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01/28/24
Joshua L.
tutor
You’re right, James. Sorry, Jesse. I added a negative that we did not need,
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01/28/24
Mark M.
The slope and a point are given. Utilize point-slope form of equation not slope-intercept,01/25/24