To determine how far apart Shahala and Paul are, we can use the distance formula. Since both of them are located at the same y-coordinate, we can simplify the calculation to just the difference in their x-coordinates.
Shahala's coordinates: (2, -12)
Paul's coordinates: (-5, -12)
The distance \( d \) between the two points in the x-direction is given by:
\[ d = |x_1 - x_2| \]
where \( x_1 = 2 \) and \( x_2 = -5 \).
Calculating the difference:
\[ d = |2 - (-5)| = |2 + 5| = |7| = 7 \]
Since each unit is equivalent to 2 miles, we multiply the distance in units by 2 to convert it to miles:
\[ \text{Distance in miles} = 7 \times 2 = 14 \text{ miles} \]
Therefore, Shahala and Paul are 14 miles apart.