Use coordinates, distance, and algebra to prove or disprove simple geometric statements.
Use slope to prove lines are perpendicular
Problem
Calculate the slopes of the lines through \((0,0)\) and \((2,4)\), and through \((1,3)\) and \((5,1)\). Use the results to determine whether the lines are perpendicular.
Find both slopes before deciding anything from the picture, paying special attention to the sign when a line falls as x increases. For two nonvertical lines, test whether the slopes are negative reciprocals by multiplying them; reserve the separate horizontal-versus-vertical rule for cases involving an undefined slope.
Inside Gozunta
Turn the preview into practice.
More than a preview
Gozunta lets you study this problem—and more than 10,000 others.
Create targeted learning sessions, use hints, check your answer, read the walkthrough, watch the video, print the work, and track your progress.
