Question

Here is a question in which I know what to do, but I do not get the right answer. I get very confused, so I am wondering if any of you can tell me what I am doing wrong. Here is the problem: the coordinates of a isosceles trapezoid ABCD are A(-r,s) B(r,s) C(t,0) and D(t,0)
Right, so my plan is:
1. calculate distance between AC
2. Calculate distance between DB
3. Compare the distances
But once I get to it, all the letters confuse me and what I get is really out of place, how would you guys do this?

Answer 1

A-C
(-r, s)-(t,0)={(-r-t),s}

B-D
(r, s)-(t, 0)={(r-t), s)}

Does this help at all? I am pretty sure from this we can conclude that the distances are equal, because the fact that the (r-t) might be negative just shows a reflection in sides, for example the length AC is reflected BD.. if that sort of makes sense?

Try drawing this shape to get the idea if your still stuck!

Answer 2

what are you trying to find with this iso trap?

Answer 3

and is C equal to D?

Answer 4

I am using the distance formula for this but whenever I do it, I get something that I don't know if it is right

Answer 5

i dont know if the distance formula even needs to be used simply because i do not know what the question is asking for.

why is the distance formula needed in this situation?

Answer 6

are you trying to determine if the diagonals are equal?

Answer 7

A(-r,s) to C(t,0)
B(r,s) to D(t,0)
^^
is one of these a -t?

Answer 8

You need the distance formula to compare them, cause it asks you to prove it

Answer 9

First, you have to fix this
C(t,0) and D(t,0)
the two points should not have the same coordinates

Answer 10

Hmmm then I have to ask the teacher again...

Answer 11

I think amistre has it right, and you have a typo. one should be (-t,0)

Answer 12

if we go on the assumption that C is at (-t,0)
then you can use the distance formula

remember it is
\[ d= \sqrt{ (y_1 - y_0)^2 + (x_1 - x_0)^2 } \]

Answer 13

hmm no, I will try it that way but the problem does not say C is that, maybe a study guide typo.

Answer 14

Hmm guys, I don't know, im usually good at distance formulas but add the letters and I am sooo bad at it .