Algebra question : can anyone describe the following variation

1. what is the formula for finding the vertical distance between two points on a coordinate plane?

The average hourly earnings for a construction worker is projected to be $24.50 in 2012. jason wants to join the construction work force after he graduates in 2012. his friend tells him that average hourly earnings for construction workers will rise by 2% from 2009 to 2012. based on the data below, assuming that the projected hourly earnings are correct, is jason’s friend’s statement accurate? construction industry - average hourly earnings, 2000-2009 a. his friend’s statement is accurate. the average hourly earnings will increase by 2%. b. his friend’s statement is not accurate. the percent increase will be more than 2% c. his friend’s statement is not accurate. the percent increase will be less than 2% d. his friend’s statement is not accurate. the average hourly earnings will decrease

Need on this geometry question. explain how you did it.