Final answer:
The midpoint of the line segment from (-1,5) to (-8,2) is calculated by averaging the x-coordinates and the y-coordinates of the endpoints, resulting in the midpoint at (-4.5, 3.5).
Step-by-step explanation:
The question involves finding the midpoint of a line segment with endpoints at (-1,5) and (-8,2). The midpoint of a line segment is found by averaging the x-coordinates and the y-coordinates of the endpoints separately. To do this, we can follow a simple mathematical formula.
To find the x-coordinate of the midpoint, we add the x-coordinates of the endpoints and divide by 2: ((-1) + (-8)) / 2 = (-9) / 2 = -4.5. Similarly, to find the y-coordinate of the midpoint, we add the y-coordinates of the endpoints and divide by 2: (5 + 2) / 2 = 7 / 2 = 3.5.
Therefore, the midpoint of the line segment from (-1,5) to (-8,2) is (-4.5, 3.5).
The midpoint formula is a foundational concept in coordinate geometry, an area within mathematics that deals with graphical interpretations of algebraic equations. The midpoint formula is used to find a point that is exactly halfway between two other points on a plane. Knowing how to find midpoints, which are often used as reference points, is essential for solving more complex problems in geometry and related fields such as engineering and computer graphics.
The midpoint of a line segment that connects the points (-1,5) and (-8,2) is at the coordinates (-4.5, 3.5).