Question

If the point P(k, 0) divides the line segment joining the points A(2, –2) and B(–7, 4) in the ratio 1 : 2, then the value of k is ______.

Options

• 1

• 2

• –2

• –1

Answer 1

If the point P(k, 0) divides the line segment joining the points A(2, –2) and B(–7, 4) in the ratio 1 : 2, then the value of k is –1.

Explanation:

∴ `k = (1(-7) + 2(2))/(1 + 2)`   ...`[∵ x = (mx_2 + nx_1)/(m + n)]`

⇒ `k = (-7 + 4)/3`

⇒ 3k = –3

⇒ k = –1