geometric construction: Given segments a and b, construct a

[quiana]

I need help with geometry constructions and need a little advice on how to get started. For example:

Given line segments a and b, construct a line segment the length of a + b.

 

[arthur ohlsten]

I shall assume line segment A is from x1,y1 to x2,y2
I shall assume line segment B is from x3,y3 to x4,y4

the length of segment B in the y direction is [y4-y3]
the length of segment B in the x direction is [x4-x3]

add these distances to the end point of segment A
A is now from x1,y1 to { x2+[x4-x3]},{y2+[y4-y3]}

Arthur