The line segment joining the points (3, -4) and (1, 2) is trisected at the points P and Q . If the coordinates of P and Q are (p, -2) and (5/3, q) respectively. Find the values of p and q.

Let given points be A(3, -4) and B(1, 2) , which is trisected at points P(p, -2) and Q(5/3, q).


 



By section formula,


x = , y =


For point P(p, -2)of AB, where m = 1 and n = 2,


p= , -2 =


 Solving for p,


P =


 


For point Q(5/3, q) of AB, where m = 2 and n = 1,


 


= , q =


Solving for q,


q =


∴q = 0Hence, the value of p and q are and 0 respectively.


 

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