Chapter 4, Problem 1SAP

To determine

To find:length of the line segment whose endpoints are represented on the coordinate axis.

Answer to Problem 1SAP

C. 5

Explanation of Solution

Given information: $\left(-2,\text{}1\right)\text{ and }\left(1,-3\right)$

A. 3

B. 4

C. 5

D. 6

E. 7

Calculation:

Plot given points on a graph, and try to draw a right triangle.

The triangle will rise 4 units and run 3 units, meaning the legs of the triangle will be 3 and 4.

Use the Pythagorean theorem to find the third side,

  $\begin{array}{c}\sqrt{3^2+4^2}=\sqrt{9+16}\\ =\sqrt{25}\\ =5\end{array}$

The third side of the triangle must be 5 which is the hypotenuse and length also.

So the correct answer is C.