Math Help, Help me understand a theorem Options

[Jen]

So, I've run into a little bit of a problem at work. Someone came in asking for help with this theorem and I can't seem to figure it out. Actually, my entire work couldn't figure it out. I work at a math tutoring place. Basically, I feel like an idiot for not understanding it.

It's analytical geometry based.

Anyone want a challenge?

[edit] Holy sht. Now after I posted the topic, I understand it. LOL. Of courseeeee that was going to happen.

Poo.

[edit2] Ok, jk. Maybe I don't. Help, still. lol..

This post has been edited by Jen: Mar 11, 2007 - 9:01 PM

[uberschall]

if i understand correctly that theorem 3.7 is the topic of interest:

in order to validate the distance from a point P to the line Ax+By+C=0 as a positive or negative value, P must be above or below the line. by substituting the x and y coordinates of P into the equation and comparing the sign of the obtained value to the sign of the coefficient B, the realtive location of P is known.

i'd have to write a proof by hand if that's what you were looking for, that might take a few.