Proving the equation of perpendicular bisector

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the equation of the perpendicular bisector for two points in a Cartesian plane, specifically the points (x1, y1) and (x2, y2). The original poster seeks assistance in demonstrating that this bisector can be expressed in the general form Ax + By = C.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants suggest starting by finding the equation of the line between the two points. There are also inquiries about algebraic transformations involving fractions and expressions related to the coordinates of the points.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered guidance on potential starting points, such as using parametric equations or checking algebraic manipulations. Multiple interpretations of the problem and various approaches are being explored, but there is no explicit consensus on a single method.

Contextual Notes

The original poster expresses uncertainty about how to begin the proof and mentions difficulties with algebraic expressions involving fractions. There may be constraints related to the homework guidelines that are not explicitly stated.

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Homework Statement



My question is to :

Prove that the perpendicular bisector of the two points (x1, y1) and (x2, y2), in general form, is given by


Ax + By = C

where

A= 2(x2-x1), B= 2(y2 -y1) and C= y2^2 - y1^2 + x2^2 - x1^2

Help me with this proving things.

Thanks


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Don't know where to start.

I have no idea.
 
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Try to find the equation of the line between the two points to start off with.
 
I've done it.

However, I got some questions. (to check if I am right)

if it is (X2-X1)((X2+X1)*1/2)

is this transformed to

((X2-X1)(X2+X1))/2 ?

which is expended to (X2^2-X1^2)/2 ?

I am not good at those if there are fractions in it.

Please check my work.

Thanks.
 
You can do it pretty quickly using parametric equations. You would have

[tex]D = 1/2 [x_{1} + x_{2}, y_{1} + y_{2}] + t[-{\Delta y},{\Delta x}][/tex]

And then you could easily find it.
 
Last edited:

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