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

Firstly, let's have a look through the question to find the key words and write down any equations you might need. Perpendicular means the two lines cross and meet at a right angle, we also have an equation for the gradient of two perpendicular lines m1m2=-1 (where m is the gradient of the lines).Rearrange the equation into the format of y=mx+c, this gives y=-(3/2)x + (7/2). We can then put -(3/2) into m1m2=-1 - this gives 2/3. So the gradient of the line we're trying to find is 2/3. Now we can express our line as y=2/3x+ c. To find c input point P - c is 2. Now our equation is y=2/3x+2. If we put in point Q we're actually expressing the line b in terms of a - b=2/3a+2

CB
Answered by Charles B. Maths tutor

5867 Views

See similar Maths GCSE tutors

Related Maths GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Bob lives 2km away from Alice and the school is 1km away from Bob. Alice sets off to meet Bob at 8am and she meets him at 8:15 and they carry on walking at the same pace. School starts at 8:20. Do they get to school on time? How early/late are they?


How do you sketch a quadratic graph?


If a rectangle has length (x-4), width (x-5) and area 12 then what is the value of x?


Sam is a bodybuilder. He currently weighs 90kg, but is aiming to be at 130kg in the next four months. Every month, he puts on 8% of his weight. Does he reach his target?


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning