Finding perpendicular bisector.

In summary, to find the coordinates of point B so that the line x = 2 is the perpendicular bisector of AB, you can draw a graph and see that point B would have coordinates (4,1). This is because the line x = 2 is vertical and can only be perpendicular to a horizontal line. By bisecting the line segment and going an equal distance on the other side, we can see that point B would be at (4,1).
  • #1
charlie_luna
3
0

Homework Statement


Point A (–4,1) is in the standard (x,y) coordinate plane. What must be the coordinates
of point B so that the line x = 2 is the perpendicular bisector of AB ?


Homework Equations


don't know where to start.


The Attempt at a Solution


haven't tried.
 
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  • #2
Well let's start with the basics, if you know one line is the perpendicular bisector of another, what can you tell me about where the one line intersects the other line and about their gradients?
 
  • #3
charlie_luna said:

Homework Statement


Point A (–4,1) is in the standard (x,y) coordinate plane. What must be the coordinates
of point B so that the line x = 2 is the perpendicular bisector of AB ?


Homework Equations


don't know where to start.


The Attempt at a Solution


haven't tried.
Then try! Have you drawn this on a coordinate system? Mark the point (-4,1) and the line x= 2. Notice that that is a v__________ line. Since x= 4 is to be the perpendicular to the line segment you want, draw a line from (-4, 1) perpendicular to x= 4. That will be a h__________ line. Since x= 4 bisects the line segment, you must go an equal distance on the other side of x= 2. Where do you wind up?
 
  • #4
This should be super-easy because the vertical line x=2 can only be perpendicular to a horizontal line. This problem can be solved by inspection and simple counting. Simple picture of a graph!
 

FAQ: Finding perpendicular bisector.

1. What is a perpendicular bisector?

A perpendicular bisector is a line or plane that divides a line segment into two equal parts at a 90 degree angle.

2. How do you find the perpendicular bisector of a line segment?

To find the perpendicular bisector of a line segment, you can use a compass and straightedge to construct the perpendicular bisector by drawing two arcs of equal radius from the endpoints of the line segment. The intersection of these arcs will be the midpoint of the line segment, and the line passing through this midpoint and perpendicular to the line segment will be the perpendicular bisector.

3. Why is finding the perpendicular bisector important in geometry?

Finding the perpendicular bisector is important in geometry because it allows us to find the midpoint of a line segment, which is a key concept in many geometric constructions and proofs. It also helps us to find the shortest distance between a point and a line, and has practical applications in fields such as architecture and engineering.

4. Can a line have more than one perpendicular bisector?

No, a line can only have one perpendicular bisector. This is because a perpendicular line can only intersect a given line at one point, and the perpendicular bisector is defined as the line that passes through the midpoint of the line segment and is perpendicular to it.

5. What are some real-life examples of perpendicular bisectors?

Some real-life examples of perpendicular bisectors include the center lines on a road or highway, the diagonal lines on a soccer field, and the intersection of two walls in a room. In each of these cases, the perpendicular bisector divides a line into two equal parts, providing balance and symmetry.

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