Find the distance between points $P(-1,4)$ and $Q(7,-2)$.

Step-by-step solution

1. Step 1: Compute the difference in $x$-coordinates: $\Delta x=7-(-1)=8$.
2. Step 2: Compute the difference in $y$-coordinates: $\Delta y=-2-4=-6$.
3. Step 3: Apply the distance formula $d=\sqrt{(\Delta x{)}^2+(\Delta y{)}^2}=\sqrt{8^2+(-6{)}^2}=\sqrt{64+36}=\sqrt{100}=10$.
4. Step 4: The distance is $10$ units.

Concept tested: Distance formula

Published 1 October 2026 · How this solution was prepared and checked