Distance Between Points
Grade 8 · Math · Geometry and the Pythagorean Theorem · Missouri, USA
Lesson Summary
Use the Pythagorean theorem to find the distance between two points on a coordinate plane.
Explanation
The distance formula comes directly from the Pythagorean theorem. To find the distance between (x₁, y₁) and (x₂, y₂), you calculate the horizontal distance (x₂ − x₁) and the vertical distance (y₂ − y₁), then use d = √((x₂ − x₁)² + (y₂ − y₁)²). Essentially, you are finding the hypotenuse of a right triangle formed by the horizontal and vertical distances.
Practice Questions
Q1: Find the distance between (1, 2) and (4, 6).
Answer: d = √((4−1)² + (6−2)²) = √(9 + 16) = √25 = 5.
Q2: Find the distance between (0, 0) and (5, 12).
Answer: d = √(5² + 12²) = √(25 + 144) = √169 = 13.
Q3: Two points are at (−3, 1) and (1, 4). What is the distance between them?
Answer: d = √((1−(−3))² + (4−1)²) = √(16 + 9) = √25 = 5.
People Also Ask
What is Distance Between Points in Grade 8 Math?+
Distance Between Points is a lesson in the Geometry and the Pythagorean Theorem chapter of Grade 8 Math. It is part of the Missouri, USA school curriculum and covers key concepts that students need to understand at this level.
What grade level covers Distance Between Points?+
Distance Between Points is taught in Grade 8 as part of the Math curriculum in Missouri, USA.
How can I help my child with Geometry and the Pythagorean Theorem in Math?+
Start with the lesson summary and explanation on this page. Practice the questions provided, then use TutorTom for personalized, step-by-step help with Geometry and the Pythagorean Theorem topics.