1.2. Segments and Distance http://www.ck12.org
Distances on a Grid
In Algebra, you worked with graphing lines and plotting points in thex−yplane. At this point, you can find the
distances between points plotted in thex−yplane if the lines are horizontal or vertical.If the line is vertical, find
the change in they−coordinates. If the line is horizontal, find the change in thex−coordinates.
Example 8:What is the distance between the two points shown below?
Solution:Because this line is vertical, look at the change in they−coordinates.
| 9 − 3 |=| 6 |= 6
The distance between the two points is 6 units.
Example 9:What is the distance between the two points shown below?
Solution:Because this line is horizontal, look at the change in thex−coordinates.