Finding The Equidistant of 2 Points

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Homework Help Overview

The original poster seeks to find the coordinates of a point on the y-axis that is equidistant from the points (3,0) and (3,6). The problem involves concepts related to geometry and distance, particularly focusing on the perpendicular bisector of a line segment.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss finding the midpoint of the given points and the concept of the perpendicular bisector. There are attempts to clarify the relationship between the midpoint and the y-axis, as well as the need for an equation to find the constant for the horizontal line.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, offering hints and guidance on how to approach the solution. There is a recognition of the simplicity of the problem due to the vertical alignment of the points, and some participants express relief at receiving clarification on the concepts involved.

Contextual Notes

The original poster expresses frustration with the complexity of the problem and the challenges faced in their math course. There is an acknowledgment of the need for further understanding of the terms involved, particularly "perpendicular bisector."

Ecom
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Homework Statement



I need the formula for finding the coordinates of the point on the y-axis that are equildistant from two other pair of points (3,0) and
(3,6).

Homework Equations


i don't know, but these might have something to do with it.

[tex]\sqrt{}[/tex] (y2-y1)2+(x2-x1)2

(x2+x1[tex]/[/tex]2, y2+y1[tex]/2[/tex])

The Attempt at a Solution


I found the midpoint of (3,0)-(3,6), and found the distance between the midpoint to the endpoints, but i don't know were to got from there. I also tried writing random scribbles on my graph papers, crying, begging God to take me out of IB extended math, and finally, posting on Physics Forums for help.
 
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Hint: Points equidistant from your two points would be on the perpendicular bisector of the line joining them. Draw a sketch.
 
LCKurtz said:
Hint: Points equidistant from your two points would be on the perpendicular bisector of the line joining them. Draw a sketch.

Ah Yes, but that would be too easy!:wink: I need to find the anwser using an equation.
 
Sure. Solve for the mid-point between your points. Write the equation of the perpendicular bisector. Solve for where it hits the y axis. The picture was just to lead the way.
 
ohhhhhhhhhhh...

Probably should have looked up "perpendicular bisector". I knew what perpendicular meant, but you threw me off at bisector.

Anyway, thanks for the information. Saved me hours of going over "attempt at solution" again
 
This is particularly simple because it is a vertical line. Any line perpendicular to it is a horizontal line and has the equation "y= constant". But the problem is finding that constant. To do that you need to know the y-component of the midpoint, which was what the original question asked!

It should be obvious what the x-component is. What point is half way between 0 and 6 on the number line?
 

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