To find the midpoint of a line segment AB, the formula is:
Midpoint \( M = \left( \frac{x_1 + x_2}{2}, \frac{y_1 + y_2}{2} \right) \)
Where \( A(x_1, y_1) \) and \( B(x_2, y_2) \) are the coordinates of points A and B.
Given the points:
A: (2.5, y₁)
B: (6.5, y₂)
Where Fernando calculated \( 6.4 + (-2.5) \) (which likely refers to x-coordinates) and \( 3.9 \) (which might refer to y-coordinates), his approach seems incorrect based on the question you've posted.
Based on the context given, we should analyze the choices. The midpoint calculation requires averaging, not addition of the values presented.
Let's summarize:
- Using correct points: From AB: \( 2.5 \) and \( 6.5 \), the x-values add to \( 9.0 \) (not \( 6.4 + (-2.5) \)).
- Average these correctly: \( \frac{2.5 + 6.5}{2} = \frac{9.0}{2} = 4.5 \) for the x-coordinate.
- If the y-values' average must be calculated, it’s important but not clear what those values are here.
Given the statements:
- Fernando's next step: The first option suggests dividing by 2, which is correct for calculating midpoint.
- That said, it's essential to conduct this step correctly in both dimensions.
Hence, Fernando should divide 3.9 by 2, then repeat both steps using the y-values. This would suggest he's following the correct formula dynamically and mathematically when using both X and Y coordinates.
So the right answer would be: Fernando should divide 3.9 by 2, then repeat both steps using the y-values.