Final answer:
Using the distance formula, the distance between the points (3, -8) and (-2, -5) is calculated as 5.8 units, which is rounded to the nearest tenth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The distance between the two points (3, -8) and (-2, -5) can be found using the distance formula, which is derived from the Pythagorean theorem and is as follows:
Distance = √[(x2 - x1)^2 + (y2 - y1)^2]
Substituting the given points into the formula:
Distance = √[(-2 - 3)^2 + (-5 - (-8))^2]
Distance = √[(-5)^2 + (3)^2]
Distance = √[25 + 9]
Distance = √[34]
Distance = 5.8
Therefore, the distance between the two points is approximately 5.8 units, when rounded to the nearest tenth.