P has coordinates (3,4), Q has coordinate (a,b), a line perpendicular to PQ has equation 3x+2y=7. Find an expression for b in terms of a

Rearrange the equation of the line perpendicular to PQ to give y = -(3/2)x + 7/2. Gradient of this line = -3/2Using the knowledge that the gradients of a line perpendicular to another line is related by a factor of -1/x we know the gradient of PQ is 2/3The gradient is the (difference in y)/(difference in x) which is (b-4)/(a-3) = 2/3multiply the bottom of the LHS to get b-4 = 2a/3 - 2 and take the 4 over to get b = 2a/3 + 2.

JL
Answered by Jack L. Maths tutor

4603 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Solve for simultaneous equations x +5y =9 and 3x + 2y =5.


Solve the inequality 6y + 5 > 8


There are two points 'A' and 'B' on a graph, their coordinates are (0,1) and (10,6) respectively. 1)Find the equation of the line that runs through both of these points.2)Find the equation of a line perpendicular to this through point 'B'.


Write the recurring decimal 0.0755... as a fraction in its lowest terms


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning