A straight line passes through the point P(-1, 3). Another line which passes through Q(-4,...

FURTHER MATHEMATICS
WAEC 2008

A straight line passes through the point P(-1, 3). Another line which passes through Q(-4, 4) intersects the first line at the point R(k, 5), where k is a constant. If \(<PRQ = 90°\), find the values of k.

Explanation

a

\(< PRQ = 90°\)

Gradient of PR \(\times\) Gradient of QR = -1.

\(\frac{5 - 3}{k + 1} \times \frac{5 - 4}{k + 4} = -1\)

\(\frac{2}{(k + 1)(k + 4)} = -1\)

\(-2 = k^{2} + 5k + 4 \implies k^{2} + 5k + 4 + 2 = 0\)

\(k^{2} + 5k + 6 = 0\)

\(k^{2} + 3k + 2k + 6 = 0\)

\(k(k + 3) + 2(k + 3) = 0 \implies (k + 3)(k + 2) = 0\)

\(\implies \text{k} = -2 or -3\)



Post an Explanation Or Report an Error
If you see any wrong question or answer, please leave a comment below and we'll take a look. If you doubt why the selected answer is correct or need additional more details? Please drop a comment or Contact us directly. Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
Add Math
Don't want to keep filling in name and email whenever you make a contribution? Register or login to make contributing easier.