How do I find the equidistant point?

In summary, the conversation is about finding the coordinates of the point on the line y=3x+1 that is equidistant from (0,0) and (-3,4). The distance formula is mentioned and a step-by-step explanation is given on how to solve the problem. The importance of showing work and posting in the correct forum is also emphasized.
  • #1
BankaiNinja
7
0
1. Find the coordinates of the point on the line y=3x+1 that is equidistant from (0,0) and (-3,4)



2. distance formula



3. I have no idea how to do this. X_X
 
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  • #2
does anyone know?
 
  • #3
nobody?
 
  • #4
Any point on the line has coordinates (x,3x+1). Set the distance from that to (0,0) equal to the distance from that to (-3,4)
 
  • #5
huh? can u show me? step by step
 
  • #6
The distance between a point (x,y) and the point (-3,4) is [tex]d1=\sqrt{(x+3)^2 + (y-4)^2}[/tex]. The distance between a point (x,y) and the point (0,0) is [tex]d2 = \sqrt{x^2 + y^2}[/tex]. You know what y is from the equation of the line, so substitute that, set d1=d2, and solve for x.
 
  • #7
In future, please note that you must show some work before help can be provided-- hence the presence of #3 in the homework posting template. Furthermore, this is not calculus and should be in the precalculus forum.
 

FAQ: How do I find the equidistant point?

What is the equidistant point?

The equidistant point, often referred to as the midpoint, is a point that is equidistant (at the same distance) from two given points. In a two-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system, it represents the center or middle point of the line segment connecting those two given points.

How do you find the equidistant point between two points?

To find the equidistant point (midpoint) between two points \((x_1, y_1)\) and \((x_2, y_2)\), follow these steps:

  1. Identify the two points: Determine the coordinates of the two given points, which you want to find the midpoint between. These points are typically denoted as \((x_1, y_1)\) and \((x_2, y_2)\).
  2. Apply the midpoint formula: Use the midpoint formula to calculate the coordinates of the equidistant point \((x_{\text{mid}}, y_{\text{mid}})\). The formula is as follows: \[x_{\text{mid}} = \frac{x_1 + x_2}{2}\] \[y_{\text{mid}} = \frac{y_1 + y_2}{2}\]
  3. Calculate the midpoint: Plug the coordinates of the two given points into the midpoint formula to compute the values of \(x_{\text{mid}}\) and \(y_{\text{mid}}\). These values represent the coordinates of the equidistant point.

The resulting \((x_{\text{mid}}, y_{\text{mid}})\) represents the equidistant point (midpoint) between the two given points \((x_1, y_1)\) and \((x_2, y_2)\).

Can you provide an example of finding the equidistant point?

Sure! Let's find the equidistant point (midpoint) between two points \((3, 5)\) and \((-1, 7)\).

  1. Identify the two points: The two given points are \((3, 5)\) and \((-1, 7)\).
  2. Apply the midpoint formula: Use the midpoint formula to calculate the equidistant point \((x_{\text{mid}}, y_{\text{mid}})\): \[x_{\text{mid}} = \frac{3 + (-1)}{2} = \frac{2}{2} = 1\] \[y_{\text{mid}} = \frac{5 + 7}{2} = \frac{12}{2} = 6\]
  3. Calculate the midpoint: The midpoint \((x_{\text{mid}}, y_{\text{mid}})\) is \((1, 6)\).

So, the equidistant point (midpoint) between \((3, 5)\) and \((-1, 7)\) is \((1, 6)\).

What is the significance of finding the equidistant point?

Finding the equidistant point (midpoint) between two given points is significant in various mathematical and practical applications, including:

1. Geometry:

In geometry, the midpoint is used to divide line segments into equal parts. It helps identify the center of a line segment, which is essential for constructing geometric figures and solving problems involving symmetry.

2. Navigation:

In navigation and geography, the midpoint between two locations is valuable for determining the average or central point of travel. It is often used in route planning, especially for long-distance journeys.

3. Engineering and Design:

In engineering and design, the midpoint plays a role in creating balanced and symmetrical structures. It helps architects and engineers position elements and distribute loads effectively.

4. Computer Graphics:

In computer graphics and digital design, the midpoint is used for various purposes, including image scaling, rotation, and manipulation. It is essential for maintaining proportions.

Overall, finding the equidistant point is a fundamental concept that has practical implications in mathematics, science, engineering, and everyday life.

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