The coordinates of points P and Q are (4, 3) and (2, -1) respectively. Find the shortest distance between P and Q.
A
10\(sqrt{2}\)
B
4\(sqrt{5}\)
C
5\(sqrt{2}\)
D
2\(sqrt{5}\)
Verified Correct Answer: D.
Step-by-Step Mathematical Solution
p(4, 3) Q(2 - 1)
distance = \(\sqrt{(x_2 - x_1)^2 + (Y_2 - y_1)^2}\)
= \(\sqrt{(2 - 4)^2 + (-1 - 3)^2}\)
= \(\sqrt{(-2)^2 = (-4)^2}\)
= \(\sqrt{4 + 16}\)
= \(\sqrt{20}\)
= \(\sqrt{4 \times 5}\)
= 2\(\sqrt{5}\)
Source: Myschool Past Questions Archive (Record #36943)