The general formula for the distance between two points is

Anyway, if A and B have the same x or y coordinates, this formula can be simplified. For example, in this case the two points have the same x coordinate of -8, so the following part of the formula simplifies:

So, we're left with

but the square root of a square is the absolute value of the object being squared:

which is this case means 
which is the correct length of the side.
The answer should be 32 2/3. Sorry I'm late, but hope this helps.
Step-by-step explanation:
We want to find two things-- the speed of the boat in still water and the speed of the current. Each of these things will be represented by a different variable:
B = speed of the boat in still water
C = speed of the current
Since we have two variables, we will need to find a system of two equations to solve.
How do we find the two equations we need?
Rate problems are based on the relationship Distance = (Rate)(Time).
Fill in the chart with your data (chart attached)
The resulting speed of the boat (traveling upstream) is B-C miles per hour. On the other hand, if the boat is traveling downstream, the current will be pushing the boat faster, and the boat's speed will increase by C miles per hour. The resulting speed of the boat (traveling downstream) is B+C miles per hour. Put this info in the second column in the chart. Now plug it into a formula! <u>Distance=(Rate)(Time) </u>Now solve using the systems of equations!
Answer:
Distance is 8.485
Midpoint is (3,4)
Step-by-step explanation:
Use the points (-1,7) and (5,1)
Insert them into the equation and solve for D

Insert points into second equation to find midpoint
