Algebra 2 (1st Edition)

Published by McDougal Littell
ISBN 10: 0618595414
ISBN 13: 978-0-61859-541-9

Chapter 9 Quadratic Relations and Conic Sections - 9.1 Apply the Distance and Midpoint Formulas - 9.1 Exercises - Skill Practice - Page 618: 38

Answer

$y=\frac{4}{3}x-\frac{20}{3}$

Work Step by Step

Let's note the triangle $ABC$ and its vertices: $$A(8,4), B(0,0), C(10,0)$$ First we determine the coordinates of the point $M$: $$x_M=\dfrac{x_B+x_C}{2}=\dfrac{0+10}{2}=5.$$ $$y_M=\dfrac{y_B+y_C}{2}=\dfrac{0+0}{2}=0.$$ So the point $M$ has the coordinates $M(5,0)$. Now we calculate the slope of the line passing through $A$ and $M$ (the median from $A$): $$m=\dfrac{y_M-y_A}{x_M-x_A}=\dfrac{0-4}{5-8}=\dfrac{4}{3}.$$ Finally we write the point-slope equation of the median $AM$ and rewrite it in slope-intercept form: $$\begin{align*} y-y_M&=m(x-x_M)\\ y-0&=\dfrac{4}{3}(x-5)\\ y&=\dfrac{4}{3}x-\dfrac{20}{3}. \end{align*}$$
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.