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Geometry/Perpendicular Lines

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Expert: Azeem Hussain - 6/30/2009


Question

are these perpendicula
if the perpendicular lines doesn't form a right angle, can it still be considered perpendicular? like what if the 2 intersecting lines formed obtuse and acute angle? i've read about perpendicular lines and all of them says that it forms right angles. please explain...thanks in advance

Answer
Hi Anee,

Perpendicular lines are at right angles, 90 degrees, ALWAYS.  This is their definition.  Two intersecting lines that form obtuse and acute angles are NOT perpendicular lines.

It is of interest to note that the lines can be perpendicular without actually intersecting.  See below:

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Although the vertical line does not intersect the horizontal line, they are still perpendicular to one another.  If you were to extend the lines, they would meet forming a right angle.

Thanks for asking,
Azeem

Azeem Hussain

Expertise

I can answer mostly any kind of question dealing with of Math 536 and below, my forte being in parabolic functions and analytical geometry.

Experience

Drop-in tutor at Champlain College since 2010. I am neither a professor nor a teacher of this subject. I am merely a student who is good at mathematics and enjoys being of service to his community. I frequently tutor people in math and the results are usually great.

Education/Credentials
Presently enrolled in Materials Engineering at McGill University. Diploma of Collegiate Studies; Pure and Applied Science, Champlain College Saint-Lambert. Diploma of Secondary Studies from Chambly Academy High School. Being a Quebecer, I am fluent in English and French and can respond to questions easily in both languages.

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