Question

find the midpoint, m, of $overline{ab}$. a = (-5, 1) b = (1, -3) m = (?, ) m = ($\frac{x_1 + x_2}{2}$, $\frac{y_1 + y_2}{2}$)

Explanation:

Step1: Identify coordinates

Let $(x_1,y_1)=(-5,1)$ and $(x_2,y_2)=(1, - 3)$.

Step2: Calculate x - coordinate of mid - point

Use the formula $x=\frac{x_1 + x_2}{2}$. Substitute $x_1=-5$ and $x_2 = 1$: $x=\frac{-5 + 1}{2}=\frac{-4}{2}=-2$.

Step3: Calculate y - coordinate of mid - point

Use the formula $y=\frac{y_1 + y_2}{2}$. Substitute $y_1 = 1$ and $y_2=-3$: $y=\frac{1+( - 3)}{2}=\frac{1 - 3}{2}=\frac{-2}{2}=-1$.

Answer:

$(-2,-1)$