Step 1: Compute the slope of the given line. Since both variables are on the same side of the equals sign, divide the opposite of the coefficient on by the coefficient on .
Step 2: Perpendicular lines have negative reciprocal slopes. Take the negative reciprocal of the slope you just calculated to determine the slope of the desired line.
Use the slope-intercept form of an equation of a line, . Replace the slope, , with the number you calculated in step 2.
If you want a single example of an equation of a line perpendicular to the given line, pick a value for and substitute it. Otherwise, leave as it is and you will have a representation of the family of equations of ALL lines perpendicular to the graph of the given equation.
John
My calculator said it, I believe it, that settles it
