Finding the Equation of a Perpendicular Line Passing Through Two Points

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the equation of a line that is perpendicular to another line defined by two points, A and B, with coordinates (3,4) and (7,-6). The original poster is attempting to derive the equation of the perpendicular line that passes through point A.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster calculates the gradient of line AB but expresses uncertainty about the next steps. Participants discuss the relationship between the slopes of perpendicular lines and question how to derive the gradient of the perpendicular line.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring the relationship between the slopes of perpendicular lines. Some guidance on the mathematical relationship has been provided, but there is no explicit consensus or resolution yet.

Contextual Notes

The original poster has expressed difficulty in progressing beyond the calculation of the gradient for line AB. There may be assumptions about the understanding of slope and perpendicularity that are being examined.

ruby_duby
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equation of a line problem!

The points A and B have co-ordinates (3,4) and (7,-6) respectively. the straight line S passes through A and is perpendicular to AB.
FInd an equation for S, giving your answer in the form ax+by+c=0

Ok so I am really stuck on this question. So far i have calculated the gradient of the line AB by doing (-6-4)/(7-3) and i got -2.5

But now i don't know what to do please help :rolleyes:
 
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How are the slopes of perpendicular lines related?
 
i have no idea how the slopes are related
 
Two lines with gradients m and m' are perpendicular if (m)(m')=-1
 
so would that mean that my gradient is +2.5
 
Would it?

If m' x (-2.5) = -1, what does m' = ?
 

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