Part 04 · Graphs · Card 5 of 8
Midpoint of a line
The point exactly halfway along a line segment. Find it by averaging the x values and averaging the y values.
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Analogy
Like meeting a friend halfway between your two houses.
Example
Points (2, 3) and (8, 7)
x: (2 + 8) / 2 = 5y: (3 + 7) / 2 = 5Midpoint = (5, 5)
In practice
Choosing a halfway meeting spot on a map uses the midpoint.
Practice
Flashcards
- What is the midpoint of (2, 3) and (8, 7)?(5, 5). Average the x values and average the y values.
Questions people ask
What is the midpoint formula?
Add the two x values and divide by 2, then add the two y values and divide by 2. In symbols, the midpoint of (x1, y1) and (x2, y2) is ((x1 + x2) / 2, (y1 + y2) / 2). It is just the average of each coordinate.
Can a midpoint have decimals or negative numbers?
Yes. If the coordinates add up to an odd number, you get a half, such as 2.5. Negative coordinates work the same way. The midpoint of (-4, 2) and (2, 6) is (-1, 4). Just add carefully, paying attention to the signs.