Question

P is a point on x-axis with abscissa −6 and Q is (2, 15). Find the distance between P and Q.

Answer 1

Point P lies on the x-axis with abscissa −6.

P = (−6, 0)

Point Q = (2, 15)

Step: Use the distance formula

The distance between two points (x₁,y₁) and (x₂,y₂) is:

Distance = `sqrt((x_2 − x_1) + (y_2 − y_1)^2)`

x₁​ = −6, y₁​ = 0

x₂ = 2, y₂ = 15

`"Distance" = sqrt((2 − (−6))^2 + (15 − 0)^2)`

= `sqrt((8)^2 + (15)^2)`

= `sqrt(64 + 225)`

= 289

= 17 units