Question

Points A(–5, x), B(y, 7) and C(1, –3) are collinear (i.e. lie on the same straight line) such that AB = BC. Calculate the values of x and y.

Answer 1

Given, AB = BC, i.e., B is the mid-point of AC.

∴ `(y, 7) = ((-5 + 1)/2, (x - 3)/2)`

`(y, 7) = (-2, (x - 3)/2)`

`=> y = -2` and `7 = (x - 3)/2`

`=>` y = –2 and x = 17