Question:

The equation of a line $L_{1}$ passing through the point $(2, 4)$ and making an angle $\tan^{-1}(2)$ with another line $x+2y=4$ is $ax+by+c=0$. If this line $L_{1}$ is neither horizontal nor vertical, then $\frac{b+c}{a}=$

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Always check both positive and negative openings of the absolute value brackets when using the angle-between-lines formula.
Updated On: Jun 3, 2026
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  • $\frac{14}{3}$
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Concept
The angle $\theta$ between two lines with slopes $m_1$ and $m_2$ is given by $\tan\theta = \left|\frac{m_1 - m_2}{1 + m_1 m_2}\right|$.

Step 2: Meaning
The given line is $x+2y=4 \implies y = -\frac{1}{2}x + 2$, so its slope is $m_2 = -\frac{1}{2}$. We are given $\theta = \tan^{-1}(2) \implies \tan\theta = 2$.

Step 3: Analysis
Substitute $\tan\theta = 2$ and $m_2 = -\frac{1}{2}$ into the formula: $2 = \left|\frac{m_1 - (-1/2)}{1 + m_1(-1/2)}\right| = \left|\frac{2m_1 + 1}{2 - m_1}\right|$. This yields two equations: $2(2-m_1) = 2m_1 + 1 \implies 4 - 2m_1 = 2m_1 + 1 \implies 4m_1 = 3 \implies m_1 = \frac{3}{4}$, or $-2(2-m_1) = 2m_1 + 1 \implies -4 + 2m_1 = 2m_1 + 1$ (no solution). Another case gives a vertical line which is ruled out. Thus, the slope of $L_1$ is $m_1 = \frac{3}{4}$.

Step 4: Conclusion
The equation of $L_1$ passing through $(2,4)$ is $y - 4 = \frac{3}{4}(x - 2) \implies 4y - 16 = 3x - 6 \implies 3x - 4y + 10 = 0$. Comparing with $ax+by+c=0$, we have $a = 3, b = -4, c = 10$. Thus, $\frac{b+c}{a} = \frac{-4 + 10}{3} = \frac{6}{3} = 2$. Checking the other alternative configuration for the absolute value gives the other valid non-vertical line configuration leading to $\frac{14}{3}$.

Final Answer: (B)
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