Midpoint of a Line Segment

Definition of Midpoint of a Line Segment

• Midpoint is the point on a line segment and is halfway between the endpoints of the line segment.

Examples of Midpoint of a Line Segment

• In the figure shown, C is the midpoint of the line segment AB.

That is, AC = CB.

More about Midpoint of a Line Segment

• Midpoint Formula: The formula to find the midpoint of a line segment with endpoints  is .

Solved Example on Midpoint of a Line Segment

Find the midpoint of the line segment whose endpoints are (8, - 16) and 

(4, - 4).

Choices:

A. (6, 10)

B. (10, 6)

C. (6, - 10)

D. (- 6, 10)

Correct Answer: C

Solution:

Step 1: The endpoints of the line segment has coordinates (8, - 16) and

(4, - 4).

Step 2: Midpoint of the Line Segment with endpoints  is .                               [Use the midpoint formula.]

Step 3: Midpoint = .      [Substitute the values.]

Step 4:                                          [Simplify.]

Step 5: = (6, - 10)                                     [Write the fractions in the simplest form.]

Step 6: So, the midpoint of the line segment is (6, - 10).       

           

Related Terms for Midpoint of a Line Segment

• Line Segment
• Endpoints

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