Line Segment

A line segment is a part of a line that is bounded by two distinct endpoints. It is the shortest distance between two points. The length of a line segment can be measured using a ruler or by applying the distance formula in coordinate geometry.

Characteristics of a Line Segment

• It has two endpoints.
• It can be measured in terms of length.
• It can be named by its endpoints or by a single letter when a line segment is labeled in a figure.

Notation

A line segment can be named by its endpoints. For example, if the endpoints of a line segment are A and B, the line segment can be denoted as AB or BA.

Properties of a Line Segment

• A line segment is straight, and it extends indefinitely in both directions.
• It has a definite length.
• It can be part of a larger geometric figure such as a polygon.

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember about line segments:

1. What is a line segment?
2. How do you identify the endpoints of a line segment?
3. How do you measure the length of a line segment?
4. What is the notation for representing a line segment?
5. What are the properties of a line segment?

Practice drawing line segments, identifying their endpoints, and measuring their lengths. Also, practice naming line segments using the correct notation.

Understanding the concept of line segments is essential for various mathematical problems and geometric constructions. Make sure to review the definitions, properties, and notation to master this topic.