The line segment joining the points (3, -4) and (1, 2) is trisected at the points P and Q . If the coordinates of P and Q are (p, -2) and (5/3, q) respectively. Find the values of p and q.

Question

Philoid · Accepted Answer

Let given points be A(3, -4) and B(1, 2) , which is trisected at points P(p, -2) and Q(5/3, q).

By section formula,

x = , y =

For point P(p, -2)of AB, where m = 1 and n = 2,

p= , -2 =

Solving for p,

P =

For point Q(5/3, q) of AB, where m = 2 and n = 1,

= , q =

Solving for q,

q =

∴q = 0Hence, the value of p and q are and 0 respectively.