SOLUTION: Find all of the points on the x-axis which are 2 units from the point (−1, 1). Using the 2 points, (-1, 1) and (x, 0) I have tried applying the distance formula, which

Algebra ->  Coordinate-system -> SOLUTION: Find all of the points on the x-axis which are 2 units from the point (−1, 1). Using the 2 points, (-1, 1) and (x, 0) I have tried applying the distance formula, which       Log On


   

Question 1092543: Find all of the points on the x-axis which are 2 units from the point (−1, 1).
Using the 2 points, (-1, 1) and (x, 0)
I have tried applying the distance formula, which gave me 4 = (-1 - x)^2 + 1, which I simplified to -(sqrt3 + 1), but the problem asks for 2 points, with the smaller and larger x-value. I am not even sure if my initial answer is the correct answer for one of the two points.
Answer by Boreal(15235) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
You were fine until the (-1-x)^2 part. That is 1+2x+x^2.
x^2+2x-3=0
(x+3)(x-1)=0
x=-3, 1
The other way is to look just at the x-coordinate, -1. Go two units up to +1, so (1, 1). Go two units down to -3, so (-3, 1).